Birmingham Launches New Employment Program for Low-Income Residents
BIRMINGHAM, AL—In a move to empower residents with low income to enter the workforce, the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District (HABD) has announced the launch of a new initiative called the Modified Apprenticeship Program. This program aims to connect 40 participants with job opportunities through on-the-job training and personal development courses.
Program Overview
The Modified Apprenticeship Program will be accepting applicants starting Thursday, October 10th, during HABD’s 2024 Employment and Community Resource Fair. The fair will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bill Harris Arena, located at 2337 Bessemer Rd, Birmingham, AL 35208. Individuals interested in the program can also apply online on the HABD website beginning October 10.
Over a period of six months, participants will engage in on-the-job training and attend various personal development courses focused on skills necessary for future employment. Each participant will earn $15 an hour, with a guaranteed minimum of 20 hours of work each week.
Community Partnerships and Skill Development
The program collaborates with local job partners in various sectors including maintenance and landscaping. These partnerships aim to equip participants with valuable skills that can lead to stable employment. After successfully completing the program, participants will be offered full-time positions with local businesses, including opportunities within the housing authority itself.
Addressing Barriers to Employment
Chief Housing and Programs Officer Larry Williams emphasized the importance of identifying and dismantling barriers that often prevent low-income individuals from joining the workforce. “What’s keeping you from the program is what we want to know. What barriers are in place?” Williams stated during a recent announcement. He mentioned common challenges like transportation and child care that potential participants might face. “If we can help build wrap-around services to get you into the program, that’s what we’ll do,” he added.
Focus on Personal Development
In addition to job training, the Modified Apprenticeship Program will include personal development courses. Participants will focus on financial literacy and leadership skills, both of which are essential for securing and maintaining employment. “In order to achieve a full-time job, you first have to be dependable. Secondly, you have to have a good attitude. But more importantly, you have to have a skill set to bring to the table,” Williams explained. The hope is this program will create new pathways for participants, allowing them to explore their employment options.
Successful Precedent in Other Cities
Williams noted that similar apprenticeship programs have found success in cities like Washington, D.C., where around 80% of participants managed to secure local jobs after completing the program. “When they see the benefit of it and they graduate, it’s life-changing for them sometimes,” he said, underscoring the potential positive impact this initiative could have on Birmingham’s community.
As applications open at the employment fair, local residents are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to gain valuable skills and employment.
