FAQ - Job Training

What is a transitional jobs program?

You can find out more here.

Who participates in Growing Home's job-training/transitional jobs program?

Growing Home works with those individuals who are the hardest to employ, and who are easily overlooked by other training programs. Historically, 90% of our participants had been previously incarcerated, and cite seeking treatment for substance abuse in the past. Many of our program participants have been homeless, or are living with family members or friends and do not have stable housing. Both men and women participate in our job training program; participants must be at least 21 years old. Many participants live with and support one or more children.

Participation in Growing Home’s job training program is not limited to anyone living in a specific geographic area. Travel to Growing Home’s Wood Street Urban Farm will be required.

How do participants learn about the program?

There are many ways people hear about us. Word of mouth from past participants and referral via partner organizations are the main ones. Referrals are not required to be eligible to take part in our intake and assessment process.

How do participants get into the program?

In the months leading up to the beginning of our training season (beginning of April), our Employment Training Coordiantor organizes a series of intake events. To participate in an intake, individuals must schedule a time and day in advance. Intakes consist of an in-depth interview with a Growing Home staff member. In addition, prospective interns take the Test of Adult Basic Education, which is administered through Kennedy King College. TABE results are used when setting educational goals during job training.

What are the requirements for participant to join and remain in the job training program?

Continuing participation is contingent upon remaining drug free, staying out of prison, and working towards employment and educational goals as set jointly by the intern and case manager. We tend to take other considerations on a case-by-case basis. Instances of worksite violence or drug use would likely end in termination of participation. In addition, because our program is a job, coming to work, following manager instructions, and other job-type requirements must be met.

How many people does Growing Home train each year?

In 2009, we are capping our program at 35 participants at any given time. This is due to space and staff limitations, and this number grows each year. Often, interns are transitioned into employment earlier than the six month time frame, and at that time we consider offering individuals on our waitlist the opportunity to join.

Do the program participants get paid?

Yes. Participants in Growing Home’s transitional job program receive a stipend equal to minimum wage for hours worked/studied. Because Growing Home’s program involves both work and study, we describe our

program as an internship rather than a job. Most weeks, interns work approximately 24 hours – four 6-hour days. We also offer opportunities for additional hours and bonuses.

What other services does Growing Home provide its program participants?

Participants receive case management, one-on-one mentoring, support in the creation of job and educational goals, and access to workshops on many subjects, including personal financial management and computer literacy. Participants also work directly with Growing Home’s job developer to find full-time employment, either when they are ready, or at the end of the 6-month training program.
What happens to Growing Home interns when they finish the program?

Most participants are either working full time at a job or are enrolled in further training or educational programs. Other participants continue to work with Growing Home staff to find job placement.