OTHER NEWS

• Seedco Brings EarnedBenefits® to Baltimore
• Donate Your Cars to Vehicles For Change
• Black America Web, Elijah Cummings: PBS' Documentary "Waging a Living" Another Wake-Up Call on Plight of the Working Poor
• New York Times, "Everyday Low Wages"
• The Baltimore Sun, Jason Perkins-Cohen: "Use education to boost wages" (Op/Ed)

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Baltimore CASH Campaign to Host Financial Counseling Certification Program (10/23-10/25 and 12/4-12/6/2006)
• Maryland Higher Education Commission and the Dept of Labor, Licensing and Regulation to Co-Sponsor "Solutions for Maryland's Future: A Partnership for Workforce Development & Maryland Higher Education" (10/31/2006)
• Welfare Advocates Host Their 27th Annual Conference "Key Concepts for Creating Solutions" (11/30/2006)

OPPORTUNITIES

• Baltimore Alliance for Careers in Healthcare Seeks A Program Manager
• The Vera Institute of Justice Seeks a Policy and Research Associate
• The National Prison Project of the American Civil Liberties Union Foundation Invites Applications for a Litigation Fellowship
• Primo Electric Company / Primenet Inc Job Opportunities

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JOTF's September Forum Screening of Documentary “Waging a Living: Opportunities for Action" Set to Tour

On September 19, 2006, JOTF co-sponsored a policy luncheon focusing on the challenges facing America’s low-wage working families and how communities, policymakers and business leaders can make a difference. The event featured a screening of “Waging a Living: Opportunities for Action,” a 26-minute policy version of a new documentary funded by the Annie E. Casey and Ford Foundations.

The film follows the lives of three low-income workers and their struggles to pay for health care, access continuing education, afford decent housing, and still make ends meet. Although these individuals work hard, they face numerous barriers to advancement and self-sufficiency. For Jean Reynolds, a single mother caring for a daughter with cancer, not even working overtime at her job as a Certified Nursing Assistant is enough to pay the family medical bills, much less leave her time to increase her education. Barbara Brooks, a single mother struggling to balance family and school, finds that the harder she works, the less public support she receives, and the more she must cut corners to get by. While Jerry Longoria works full time as a security guard in San Francisco, his wages cannot cover the high local cost of living, and his lack of skills leave him little hope for advancement. One in four American families face the challenges of being low-income, and the screening was one step in stimulating a local conversation around the issue.

Scot Spencer, Manager of Baltimore Relations at the Annie E. Casey Foundation, gave a welcoming speech to a crowd of nearly 200 attendees. U.S. Congressman Elijah Cummings, the host of luncheon, followed with opening remarks. After the film, a panel discussion addressed the obstacles facing low-income workers and changes that can be made to help these families achieve the American Dream.

Panelists included: Jason Perkins-Cohen, Executive Director of the Job Opportunities Task Force; Jo-Ann Williams, Human Resources Manager for the University of Maryland Medical Systems; Dwayne Drake, Sr., current Lead Tech Central Pharmacy at the University of Maryland Medical Center and former minimum-wage worker; and Anirban Basu, Chairman and CEO of Sage Policy Group, Inc. WBAL Investigative Reporter Jayne Miller moderated the discussion.

Co-sponsors of the luncheon included the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Maryland Public Television, the Association of Baltimore Area Grantmakers, and the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African-American History and Culture. More information on the documentary “Waging a Living” can be found at www.pbs.org/pov/pov2006/wagingaliving.

If you would like a copy of the film or additional information, please contact Jessica Traskey at 410-234-8040.

With the high attendance numbers and interest of JOTF’s recent forum “Can America's Low-Wage Workers Still Achieve the American Dream?” JOTF have decided to take on the road the short 26 minute policy version of the documentary “Waging a Living: Opportunities for Action” with informal discussion.

Are you a group who would like to host a presentation given by JOTF?

For more information contact Melissa Chalmers Broome at (410) 234-8046.

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Read JOTF's Fall 2006 Print Newsletter

JOTF is pleased to bring to you its Fall 2006 print newsletter. Click here to read the document in PDF format.

(Document is in PDF format.)

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Seedco Brings EarnedBenefits® to Baltimore

Seedco is a national community development intermediary that creates opportunities for low-wage workers and their families. With support from local funders and community based organizations Seedco is launching EarnBenefits Baltimore. Seedco developed EarnBenefits to help individuals access and manage a wide array of benefits and work supports to build family income and assets. EarnBenefits services include marketing and education to the community, online eligibility screening and application assistance, and continued benefits management assistance.

Four community based organizations ACORN, Catholic Charities, Bon Secours, and East Baltimore Development Inc. will be implementing EarnBenefits. These organizations serve families who are transitioning off of public assistance or are employed in low-wage jobs. With the help of EarnBenefits these organizations will connect people to services and benefits that support steady employment and economic self sufficiency.

For more information please visit www.seedco.org/baltimore or contact Seedco’s local Program Associate Sara Johnson.

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Donate Your Cars to Vehicles for Change

Vehicles for Change (VFC) is a non-profit program that exists so that low-income families can achieve financial and personal independence that comes from owning a vehicle. VFC repairs donated cars and sells them to low-income families, at a minimal fee, for employment purposes. Jobs, daycare, even grocery stores and doctors are unavailable without a car. Since October 1999 over 5,400 lives have been changed and 1,800 cars awarded with 35 - 50 more cars awarded each month.

Vehicles for Change (VFC) have seen a significant reduction in car donations for the current year, and there appears to be no determinable reason. Little has changed in their marketing efforts of the past year, and as we are aware, car donations are the life blood of the VFC program.

What follows are two documents that can be submitted to a church bulletin, company newsletter, local newspaper etc. VFC greatly appreciate any help that can be offered.

Click here to read “Car Donations Lose Value Unless….” by Marty Schwartz, president of Vehicles for Change in MS Word format.

Click here for the Bulletin / Newsletter sample in MS Word format.

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Black America Web, Elijah Cummings: PBS' Documentary "Waging a Living" Another Wake-Up Call on Plight of the Working Poor

Congressman Elijah Cummings contributes to Black America Web with an op/ed capturing the plight of the working poor. Those Americans caught between high prices and low wages, who often work two or even three jobs because their employment does not pay them enough to cover the basic needs within a family.

With reference to the recent PBS documentary “Waging a Living”, Cummings states that with this being an election year that national attention needs focus upon more effective policies and those aspects brought to light through the documentary.

Read Elijah Cummings: PBS’ Documentary ‘Waging A Living’ Another Wake-Up Call on Plight of Working Poor.

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New York Times, "Everyday Low Wages"

The Mayor of Chicago wielded his first veto of his 17 year tenure last week, and he was supported by his City Council. Mayor Richard M. Daley argued that mandating higher compensation amongst retailers would do more harm than good by driving business and employment opportunities away from low-income neighborhoods.

Read "Everyday Low Wages".

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The Baltimore Sun, Jason Perkins-Cohen: "Use education to boost wages" (Op/Ed)

Jason Perkins-Cohen writes in the Baltimore Sun Op/Ed section, September 14, 2006 that this is the year to invest in our workers by providing effective education and training programs that will lead to high-demand, better-wage jobs.

Read "Use education to boost wages".

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Baltimore CASH Campaign to Host Financial Counseling Certification Program (10/23-10/25 and 12/4-12/6/2006)

The Financial Counseling Certification Program was developed by University of Maryland Cooperative Extension, reaching over 350 agency staff and counselors from community action agencies, credit unions, and other organizations since 1997. The curriculum also was adapted by County Extension Educators to train volunteer financial counselors to help supplement paid staff and human service providers from public and private organizations to enhance the economic sustainability of their clients.

For the CASH Campaign, the Financial Counseling Certification Program is split into 2 parts – Basic and Advanced. Each section includes 20 consecutive hours of training. There is an exam at the end of each course and certificates are given to participants that pass the exam with a 70%. The course fee is $250 which includes all materials, resources, and meals. A limited number of scholarships are available. There are approximately 20 slots available for each session.

The sessions are extremely interactive and participants learn information in a way that is beneficial to both their personal and professional lives. Seasoned instructors share a wealth of activities and resources to supplement your current program.

Basic Financial Counseling (20 hours)

This introductory course is designed for individuals with a general understanding of financial management. The session is offered in 2 full days and one half day.

Topics include:

• Introduction to Financial Counseling
• Values and Goal Setting
• Creating and Managing Financial Statements
• Cash Management
• Credit and Debt Management
• Tax Planning

Advanced Financial Counseling (20 hours)

This advanced course is designed for individuals who have completed the Basic Financial Counseling or have significant related experience. The session is offered in 2 full days and one half day. Participants who wish to take only this session need to contact Robin McKinney prior to registering for the class.

Topics include:

• Insurance Management
• Major Expenditures
• Savings and Investments
• Retirement and Estate Planning

This training is a great opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge and techniques or brush up your skills. Trainers are interesting and spirited, filling the day with many ideas, activities, and case studies.

Sign up today as space is limited! For more information, or to RSVP, please contact Robin McKinney 410-727-1205 ext. 1209.

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Maryland Higher Education Commission and the Dept of Labor, Licensing and Regulation to Co-Sponsor "Solutions for Maryland's Future: A Partnership for Workforce Development & Maryland Higher Education" (10/31/2006)

Maryland Higher Education and the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation co-sponsor a statewide listening tour "Solutions for Maryland's Future: A Partnership for Workforce Development & Maryland Higher Education", scheduled for Tuesday October 31, 2006 from 9.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. (networking from 8.30 a.m.) at the College of Notre Dame, Baltimore in the Doyle Formal Lounge, Doyle Hall. Refreshments will be provided.

This will be an opportunity for you to talk candidly about what Maryland education is and should be doing to help meet our state's workforce and economic development needs.

Read the full invitation to "Solutions for Maryland's Future: A Partnership for Workforce Development & Maryland Higher Education" in PDF format.

(Document is in PDF format.)

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Welfare Advocates Host Their 27th Annual Conference "Key Concepts for Creating Solutions" (11/30/2006)

Welfare Advocates are to host their 27th annual conference "Key Concepts for Creating Solutions" on Thursday November 30, 2006 from 8.15 a.m. to 3.00 p.m., at the Best Western Hotel and Conference Center, 5625 O'Donnell Street, Baltimore.

Featuring:

• Motivating and Enriching Keynote Address
• Response Panel
• Informative Workshops
• Networking Opportunities

Please RSVP to Carol L. Palmer at (410) 261-6780.

Download invitation and registration details for "Key Concepts for Creating Solutions" in PDF format.

(Document is in PDF format.)

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Baltimore Alliance for Careers in Healthcare Seeks A Program Manager

The Healthcare Alliance is an organization funded by several local foundations interested in improving the City’s economic health by developing a system for preparing city residents for skilled positions in healthcare who are experiencing critical workforce shortages. The mission of the Alliance is to address unemployment, underemployment and healthcare workforce shortages issues in Baltimore by identifying healthcare careers pathways leading to economic independence and training city residents to enter into and advance in them.

The Program Manager will play a vital role in assisting the Executive Director administers the variety of programs launched by the Alliance. Currently, these efforts include: oversight of the Pre-Allied Health Bridge program, facilitate the Career Coach Peer Learning activity, and oversees other academic and programmatic efforts lead by the organization. The coordinator will be housed in Baltimore in the Executive Center at 3700 Koppers Street.

Principal Responsibilities and Tasks:

The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so classified.

1. In a staff role, and in direct support of the Alliance “program committee”, oversee Alliance training programs and services including the “Pre-Allied Health Bridge”, The “Peer Learning Activity” surrounding Hospital Career Coaches, and the Career mapping project.

2. Assume coordinative responsibility for the successful implementation of the recently awarded Robert Wood Johnson Foundation program (1st Span) which provides work-based learning opportunity for Hospital front-line workers;

3. Provide coordination to support implementation of other programs and projects advanced by the Alliance;

4. Participate, as a member of the staff, with Alliance Committees to execute elements of the organizations annual goals and objectives;

5. Participate in grant writing activity as appropriate;

6. Prepare reports and make presentations to a variety of constituents;

7. Maintain an active role with member Healthcare organizations;

8. Conduct research on relevant entry-level health care training programs and services as directed;

9. Performs related duties as required.

Qualifications:

The following represent a list of required or preferred qualifications for the position. Applicants must possess all of the stated required qualifications.

Required Qualifications include:

1. Project management experience overseeing employee training programs;

2. Ability to effectively communicate in writing using Microsoft applications software packages. A writing sample will be administered.

3. Bachelor’s degree in Business, Education, or Health related field. Other related fields of study will be considered.

4. Ability to work and produce results independently.

5. Embrace the vision of “creating pathways to opportunity” in healthcare for Baltimore city residents.

Preferred Qualifications include:

1. Experience in workforce development programs in direct support of the Healthcare industry;

2. Experience overseeing training programs and services;

3. Experience in identifying, applying for, and administering grant funding;

4. Some experience with financial budgets is desired;

5. Knowledge of spreadsheet, database, presentation, work processing software and use of email. Knowledge of finance, quality management, planning and administrative theory. Knowledge of clinical educational practices.

Working Conditions:

1. Local travel is required, some national travel.
2. Most work will be completed in an office setting or in hospitals.

Salary: Negotiable, with fringe benefits (Position will become available upon approval by Alliance Board, October 20, 2006)

For best consideration submit applications by October 27, 2006. Position will remain open until filled.

Please submit letter of interest and resume with salary requirement to:

Ronald M. Hearn
Executive Director
Baltimore Alliance for Careers in Healthcare, Inc.
3700 Koppers Street
Suite 116
Baltimore, Maryland 21227

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• Work closely with staff lawyers on major class actions and damages cases in federal court;
• Draft pleadings and briefs;
• Participate in discovery and motion practice;
• Assist with trials and appeals;
• Provide technical assistance to ACLU local affiliates, cooperating lawyers and other lawyers who seek assistance from Project.

Experience and Qualifications:

• Strong analytical and research skills;
• Solid verbal communication skills;
• Ability to write clearly;
• Commitment to civil liberties and public interest law;
• Familiarity with criminal justice issues highly desirable.

Compensation:

The ACLU offers a generous and comprehensive compensation and benefits package, commensurate with experience and within parameters of the ACLU compensation scale.

The ACLU is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and encourages applications from women, people of color, persons with disabilities, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals.

The ACLU comprises two separate corporate entities, the American Civil Liberties Union and the ACLU Foundation. Both the American Civil Liberties Union and the ACLU Foundation are national organizations with the same overall mission, and share office space and employees. The ACLU has two separate corporate entities in order to do a broad range of work to protect civil liberties. This job posting refers collectively to the two organizations under the name “ACLU.”

If you have a passion for public interest issues, please send current resume, the names and phone numbers of three references and at least one legal writing sample to:

hrjobs@aclu.org

E.M. Bigelow
RE: 2007 Fellowship [NPP-06]
National Prison Project of the American Cicil Liberties Union
915 15th Street NW, 7th Floor
Washington, DC 20005

Reference: [NPP-04] in subject line.

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Since their founding more than 40 years ago, Primo Electric Company has promoted an environment where people take pride in their work. As a result, Primo employees enjoy challenging careers, valuable educational opportunities and a competitive wage and benefit package. All in a workplace that emphasizes teamwork, safety, commitment and mutual respect.

Whether seeking an apprenticeship, laborer, journeyman, foreman, or equipment operator position, Primo Electric offers numerous career opportunities.

PrimeNet Inc specializes in helping clients define, optimize, and manage their voice, data, video, and security communication systems.

At PrimeNet, pride is more than just a feeling; its a concrete attitude and philosophy that influences every aspect of their business. As a result, employees enjoy challenging careers, valuable educational opportunities (Including onsite BICSI® certification) and a competitive wage and benefits package. All in a workplace that emphasizes teamwork, safety, commitment and mutual respect.

Click here to view Primo Electric Company and Primenet Inc job opportunities in MS Word format

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