Since 1990, the kitchen has provided a training center for jobless individuals to learn food preparation for employment in the food service industry, while they help prepare over 3000 meals a day. Over the last six years, the program has had 600 graduates, with a 90 percent graduation rate, a 90 percent retention rate after 90 days, and a 77 percent retention rate after 360 days. The training program not only teaches skills necessary to obtain a job but also addresses life management factors associated with being able to retain a job, such as maintaining a positive attitude, being dependable and reliable, building confidence and self-esteem, communicating effectively, completing job applications and resumes, grooming and hygiene, and personal issues, such as transportation and day care. A keystone of the program is that trainees do not displace current employees of the organization or cause a reduction in their work hours. Since mid 1994, a private non-profit organization in Milwaukee has stressed job placement.
Clients go through eight weeks of job search.
Those who do not find private sector jobs are offered minimum wage community service positions at non-profit organizations for a maximum of one year. When necessary, the organization subsidizes its clients' wages to bring them up to at least the poverty line. In early 1995, a private non-profit organization in Columbus began providing intensive human capital development. A welfare recipient's job placement should be commensurate with his or her education, skills, and abilities. G. Edward DeSeve, Controller.