AleWfDProjects

In Holyoke, MA, there's a collaboration between ABE/ESOL programs and the OSCC to figure out ways in which ABE and WfD can better and more efficiently work together. They teamed up and snagged a small grant from Third Sector New England (TSNE) to enable them to hire a facilitator to run a series of "learning circles." One learning circle was made up of administrators from the ABE/ESOL programs and OSCC. The other two learning circles were composed of frontline staff from both sides of the equation -- teachers, job developers, etc. While the grant does not require any concrete outcomes other than learning, both of the latter learning circles chose projects. One chose to develop a curriculum guide for teachers to incorporate employability skills and concepts into their lessons. The other chose to develop a referral guide which could be used by teachers/OSCC staff for students/customers to direct folks to appropriate educational or employment/training organizations. The admin circle is trying to figure out how to keep these projects going even when the TSNE funds dry up.