New Employment Services for Jobseekers Impacted by COVID-19.
The WorkPlace announces the launch of a new program to assist jobseekers who have lost employment due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since March 1st, nearly 70,000 unemployment claims have been processed for residents in Southwestern Connecticut. Platform to Employment (P2E) 2.0 is a virtual program designed to reconnect displaced jobseekers in the region with employers seeking skilled talent. Through an online program with approximately 20 participants per class, P2E 2.0 will offer a three-phase approach to respond to the needs of the unemployed. Throughout the program participants will receive mentoring, access to a support services concierge, career counseling, and job placement assistance.
P2E 2.0 is an example of how programs must be nimble and able to pivot based on economic conditions. Those unemployed because of the pandemic are working through many emotions including fear, stress, and anxiety and during phase one, P2E 2.0 will work to address these concerns. The second phase will educate participants on understanding and getting prepared for the new world of work. This will include becoming more comfortable with technology, understanding types of jobs – full-time, part-time, short term “gig” and project-based work, and learning current, effective job search strategies. The third phase of P2E 2.0 will support those who could benefit from upgrading skills through short-term occupational skill training. The virtual experience will help keep the mind fresh and create a pathway back into the labor force.
Platform to Employment is a nationally recognized program that has been addressing the specific needs of long-term unemployed workers across the state since 2011. The program’s success has been unparalleled with nearly 90% percent of participants who enter the programs work experience component, successfully moving to employer payrolls. COVID-19 has changed economic history along with the employment landscape of our state and has created unrivaled economic uncertainty. The WorkPlace is launching P2E 2.0 as a pilot program in Southwest Connecticut to leverage a proven model and help the unemployed return to work.
P2E 2.0 will be supported by partnerships which bring unique aspects of the program together. We will include behavioral health experts to support those in need of assistance to overcome personal challenges. Professional career development trainers will facilitate workshops on navigating the labor market and career choices. Financial counselors and wellness professionals will contribute to a holistic approach to job search ensuring program participants stay motivated and engaged.
“The impact of COVID-19 on the state has been devastating as thousands have been separated from employment and left with doubts about their personal recovery,” said Joseph Carbone, President & CEO of The WorkPlace. “Bringing the unemployed to a platform of readiness emotionally and professionally is critical as the job market recovers. It starts by understanding the impacts and stages of unemployment and that the longer a person is unemployed, the more difficult it becomes to re-enter the job market.”
P2E 2.0 will assist people in making the transition back to work and eventually to rewarding careers. There is no cost to participate. The program includes 5 weeks of career development training, a dedicated support team with career counselors and employer relations specialists. Platform to Employment graduates get hired. Classes begin in June and seats are limited. For more information or to apply for the program, visit platformtoemployment.com or workplace.org or call (203) 610-8516.