Vocational Program

We offer our Vocational Training Program targeted toward those with difficult entry or re-entry into the workforce!

What we offer

Comprehensive Support

Provide individualized instruction, offer meetings and follow up with parents or caregivers, SLS coaches, Regional Center Service Coordinators, probation officers, etc.

Flexibility

Offer flexible scheduling and part-time opportunities to accommodate participants' varying needs and commitments.

Community Partnerships

Collaborate with local organizations, nonprofits, and government agencies to provide additional resources and support.

Cultural Competency

Ensure staff and volunteers are trained in cultural competency to effectively support diverse populations.

Ongoing Evaluation

Regularly assess the program's effectiveness and make necessary adjustments based on participant feedback and outcomes.

Components

1. Work Readiness Skills (length varies)

2. Orientation and Assessment (1 Month)

Introduction to the Program
- Overview of program goals and expectations
- Meet the trainers and peers
- Tour of the thrift store and facilities
Assessment of Skills and Interests
- Initial skill assessment (literacy, numeracy, social skills)
- One-on-one interviews to understand interests and goals
- Personalized training plans

3. Basic Retail Skills (2 Months)

Customer Service Training
- Greeting and assisting customers
- Handling customer inquiries and complaints
- Role-playing exercises
Cash Register Operation
- Basic arithmetic and handling money
- Using a cash register and POS system
- Conducting transactions and issuing receipts
Product Knowledge
- Understanding merchandise categories
- Pricing and tagging items
- Stocking shelves and arranging displays

4. Back Office Skills (2 Months)

Inventory Management
- Receiving and processing donations
- Organizing and maintaining inventory
- Conducting inventory audits
Administrative Tasks
- Basic computer skills (typing, using office software)
- Data entry and record keeping
- Filing and documentation
Communication Skills
- Professional email and phone etiquette
- Basic written communication
- Interpersonal communication in a workplace setting

5. Advanced Retail Skills (3 Months)

Sales Techniques
- Upselling and cross-selling
- Creating promotional displays
- Understanding sales targets and metrics
Store Operations
- Opening and closing procedures
- Handling returns and exchanges
- Safety and security practices
Intake and Inventory
- Item Assessment and Categorization
- Item Prep
- Pricing strategies
Teamwork and Leadership
- Working effectively in a team
- Conflict resolution and problem-solving
- Leadership and supervisory skills

6. Personal Development Review (1 Month)

Life Skills Training
- Time management and organizational skills
- Financial literacy (budgeting, saving)
  - Health and wellness (nutrition, stress management)
Career Readiness
- Resume writing and job application assistance
- Interview preparation and practice
- Job search strategies

7. Final Practicum -Hands-On Experience (2 Months)

Practical Application
- Rotating through various roles in the thrift store
- Supervised hands-on experience
- Real-world problem-solving and decision-making
Internship Placement
- Partner with local businesses for internship opportunities
- Continued support and mentoring during internships
- Evaluation and feedback sessions
- Collaborate with local agencies and businesses
- Engage volunteers to support training and mentoring

Foster a sense of community involvement and support

By following this comprehensive framework, this program can effectively prepare individuals facing significant barriers to employment for a successful career in retail and back-office roles within a thrift store environment.

Ruth and Naomi Project Inc.