The impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic is being felt in every community across our state, as people face joblessness and employers make difficult decisions about whether to stay open. Now more than ever, we see how important The Joseph Project is, as it connects people to good jobs that are focused on manufacturing. While we can’t hold in-person classes at this time, this Micah Center based program will plan to hold classes later this summer, August 2020.
The Joseph Project in Green Bay began at the Micah Center in April 2018 in partnership with Senator Ron Johnson’s Office. The Joseph Project originated as a constituent service through the office of U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson in collaboration with Greater Praise Church of God in Christ in Downtown Milwaukee. While traveling the state, the senator found that manufacturers’ number one concern was not having enough workers. Yet when he visited central city neighborhoods, the problem was not enough jobs. Johnson staffers worked with Pastor Jerome Smith of Greater Praise Church of God in Christ to identify people ready for a life change, based on their attitude and determination.
The Joseph Project, simply stated, is a faith-based program that connects people to jobs. Participants go through a 4-day life skills training program and then are offered a chance to interview with a company willing to hire at a living wage. The initiative consists of a 4-day class at The Micah Center (700 E Walnut St., Green Bay), which promotes life skills, such as team work, time management, financial management, spiritual fitness, stress management, and conflict resolution to name a few. Program advocates will work with participants to develop interview skills as well as assist in the writing of resumes. At the end of the 4 days, participants interview with employers looking to hire at a living wage with benefits.
If you or someone you know would be a good fit for the next class in August 2020, connect directly with Eugene Smalls, Case Manager and Joseph Project Coordinator: esmallsjr@sjehs.org or (920) 288-7217. Learn more at: https://www.stjohnhomelessshelter.org/josephproject.
