June 28, 2006
The U.S. Department of Labor recently announced a $75,000 grant to SOAR Career Solutions, Duluth, MN, to help hard-to-serve populations prepare for and succeed in employment opportunities.
The grant will allow SOAR to serve 225 individuals over the course of the 18-month grant, including services to unemployed/underemployed workers, ex-offenders, and those wishing to start their own businesses. The project will provide career services, mentoring, education, employability skills, networking opportunities and access to important resources. SOAR will be partnering with the Duluth Workforce Center on this project.
“This grant will allow us better coordinate our services with those of the Workforce Center,” said Rebecca Ellenson, Executive Director of SOAR Career Solutions. “Let’s say an older worker with no computer experience is referred by a friend to SOAR. She could complete the Career Development workshop; build skills in job seeking, interviewing, and application; identify office work as her dream; create a workable career path with her Career Specialist; complete the Basic Computer Training; and then be referred to the Workforce Center for on-the-job training.”
Another example of how SOAR will be able to work together with the Workforce Center would be when a client working with a job counselor has self-defeating habits and attitudes that are preventing him from becoming successful. Because of this grant he could be referred to SOAR for the STEPS program that teaches positive cognitive skills and patterns, goal development and builds self-esteem. After completion he would resume working with his job counselor for job search activities and other Intensive Services.
The City of Duluth, through its Workforce Development Division, is one of 6 agencies that collaboratively operate the Duluth Workforce Center. The services provided by SOAR through this grant will complement the services offered at the Center, in order to more effectively serve a wider population through cross-referrals.
“We have had a successful informal relationship with SOAR in the past and look forward to strengthening that relationship in order to enhance the service delivery capabilities of both organizations,” said Don Hoag, Manager of Duluth Workforce Development.
A total of $4 million in grants to 55 faith-based and community organizations in 32 states were funded through this competition. These grants are part of the Department of Labor’s ongoing effort to partner its existing programs with effective faith-based and community organizations to better serve the needy.
“This Administration recognizes the important role faith-based and community organizations play in connecting workers with tools they need to succeed,” said Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. “The grassroots projects funded through this $4 million competition will provide the customized help some individuals need to prepare for careers in the 21st century economy.”
Read more about this grant from the U.S. Department of Labor and from Governor Pawlenty's Office.
April 19, 2006
SOAR Career Solutions hosted a press conference to announce the start of CORP (Community Offender Re-entry Program.)
CORP is a collaborative effort of SOAR Career Solutions, Men As Peacemakers, Northeast Regional Corrections Center, Arrowhead Regional Corrections, and Lake Superior College.
Press conference panel members included:
Mayor Herb Bergson,
Warren Salmela - Superintendent, Northeast Regional Corrections Center,
David Nyquist - Chief Probation Officer, Arrowhead Regional Corrections,
Frank Jewell - Executive Director, Men As Peacemakers,
Steve Wagner - Dean of Workforce Development, Lake Superior College.
For more information, please contact SOAR's executive director, Rebecca Ellenson.
April 19, 2006
On April 19th, SOAR hosted an Open House. Over 100 people toured our office and learned about our new services. Our staff and Board members answered questions and served snacks. Some visitors took our "job survey" to help them determine if they are working in their DREAM JOB or not.
Several of our successful WISE business clients marketed their businesses and answered questions for people who are thinking about starting a business. One client even gave free chair massages! We congratulate them on their continued success!
March 21, 2006
Project SOAR of Northeastern Minnesota announces its new name, SOAR Career Solutions, effective April 3, 2006. The non-profit organization provides affordable, holistic, and creative career and business planning services to job seekers and career changers. SOAR utilizes a personalized team approach, focusing on the customers’ life passions, core values, and talents so they can identify, obtain, and keep their ideal job or start their own business.
Project SOAR was founded in 1980 to assist displaced homemakers entering the workforce. Since that time, an estimated 7000 people have been helped to achieve their dreams, gain employment, or start a business. The organization has adapted to the changing economic climate and for the past decade has been serving both men and women from varied circumstances. SOAR offers both short-term services like preparation of resumes and cover letters, interview coaching, and interest/career assessments, and also in-depth, long-term support needed by some to break the cycle of poverty and successfully enter the workforce.
Mayor Herb Bergson accepts a flower from Project SOAR Executive Director, Rebecca Ellenson. Event Coordinator, Debbie Isabell Nelson, looks on.
September 21, 2005
Kites were soaring over Bayfront Festival Park on September 21, 2005 as Project SOAR hosted a celebration marking 25 years of service to the Northland. Staff and Board Members dished up root beer floats and handed out free popcorn and kites while current and former clients visited with each other, former staff members, and community supporters. Funders and representatives of other local organizations were present to offer their congratulations and share in the festivities. Read more...
Soar Career Solutions · 205 West 2nd Street · Suite 101 · Duluth, MN 55802
Phone: (218) 722-3126 · Fax: (218) 722-4617 · Email: info@soarcareers.org
This website was made possible through a grant from the Duluth/Superior Area Community Foundation. We are grateful for their support!
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