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Free Program by Christian Job Corps of Gillespie County Offers Women a Fresh Start

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Tony Maples Photography

 

The Christian Job Corps (CJC) of Gillespie County will soon be starting a new class for women in the Fredericksburg area who want to improve their income and their employability through a ten-week training program. The next class begins September 5th, and applications should be received by August 24th. Members of the first graduating class shown above found increased salaries, new volunteer opportunities, and even college applications. Read more if you think this could help you, or someone you know, or if you are interested in helping others as a volunteer in CJC.

Classes are free to participants.

CJC Computer Classroom

Photo: Robert C Deming

Each class includes lunch around a common table, because building relationships is an important part of this program, as well as improving work skills. This includes the use of computers and commonly used software programs. The classes use the Jobs 4 Life curriculum in a structured classroom environment. Call the Job Corps office at (830) 307-3248 or find the application on their website at www.cjcgc.org.

True Stories of Women Whose Lives Were Changed

Life changed – Madelyn C.

“Maybe I’m too old for this, can I really learn at my age?” Madelyn was apprehensive and quiet as we began the first week of classes. After ten short weeks, she formed strong bonds with her classmates, and she nurtured and blessed each of them and staff members with heartfelt sharing and encouragement. Since completing the CWJC class, she received a raise at her part-time job, paid off her mortgage ( the result of their goal setting and money management course), and is increasing her time in the community as a volunteer, sharing with others the benefits of the CWJC.

Sticking to It! – Rose Marie D.

“I have a habit of walking off of jobs. I get hired, but I just quit when things get hard.”  With a little encouragement, she signed on for the spring 2017 CWJC class. Overcoming transportation issues, family conflicts and simply wanting to give up, this young woman experienced the love and encouragement of her classmates to not quit. From a somewhat bitter and negative outlook on life to a commitment to finish something, she experienced her first graduation from any type of program. CWJC changed her life through personal interaction with others that helped her see the gifts she had and the value she gives to others. She went on to obtain another job and continues to serve as a volunteer in a local help agency.

From Reclusive to Responsive – Jennifer D.

“Since graduating high school, I just closed myself into a shell. I was too afraid to try anything new, feeling I would fail. When you called me back to come to the class, I knew I needed to try.” Four years after graduating high school, and battling depression, she took the chance and came to class. Over the ten weeks, she blossomed into a skilled speaker, a deep thinker that challenged the class, and an artistic talent that emerged in many areas. Since completing the CWJC class, she has started volunteering at the local hospital, taken steps to start college in the fall, and has dreams of a career in the medical or research field.

‘I’ve Never Been to a Class Before.’ – Elianna G.

Being homeschooled all of her life, to enter a class setting was a new and anxiety filled step. Through this class, she grew in confidence, excel at speaking, leading, and helping.  Her expertize on the computer was a blessing to her classmates as they were working together to learn programs and practice skills. Now growing in confidence in who she is, since graduation she has applied for her first job, taken steps to get her driver’s license, and plans to attend college in the near future. CWJC was the impetus she needed.

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