TODAY'S NEWS
Newest Program Gets Young People Ready for Work
July 12, 2009
RAMP is a six-week intensive life skills and job readiness training program targeted to at risk young adults between 18-24 years old in under-served communities in San Francisco that recently launched, with its first classes starting May 11.
The goal of the program is to connect young adults with resources, training, education, employment and community. It is a collaboration between Office of Economic and Workforce Development and Goodwill Industries, along with other non-profits San Francisco Conservation Corps and Rubicon.
The program's components includes assessment, life-skills training, conflict management, job-readiness training as well as job placement upon completion of the program.
At Goodwill, Laura Burton is RAMP Head Trainer, and Anita Jackson is RAMP Case Manager.
"We are getting troubled adults off the street and they want to change, they are telling their friends and their family members," said Laura.
The program participants must do their part to overcome the barriers in their lives and achieve success in their time during RAMP, from very tactical day-today challenges to deeper issues. "They have to show up on time and open themselves up and be willing to learn is most important," Laura said.
In their own words, RAMP participants speak out:
"The RAMP program is a second chance and opportunity no one was allowing me at the time. It is a chance for me to get back to and focused on what is important to me as well -- and that is my future," said Antonia Williams.
"RAMP is a stepping stone to get more prepared in a professional setting. I'm making a transition. I hope to get a broader understanding of the corporate world," said D'Mario Cunningham.
"RAMP is like a new beginning to me. Instead of using my skills to get money on the streets, I want to use them to further my education and myself. I am tired of wasting time and I want to move my life in a better direction," said Mark Medina.
"RAMP helps you with a lot of things like communication skills, how to dress and work with groups -- everyone has been getting along. I signed up for RAMP because this is my first time working. I needed the help with interview and communications skills. I needed help with public speaking," said Jewel Sanders.
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