Nationally Recognized Program Putting Connecticut’s Long Term Unemployed Back To Work
The WorkPlace announces a state-wide graduation of the nationally recognized Platform to Employment (P2E) program. P2E was made possible by the support of Governor Malloy and the Connecticut legislature. Since its inception, P2E has helped over 1,000 of Connecticut’s long-term unemployed residents find work. The program empowers individuals, fosters self-sufficiency and focuses on performance improvements with measurable outcomes. We are excited to report that over 40% of this graduating class has already found employment.
P2E begins with a five-week preparatory program that helps participants confront barriers to employment through coaching, skills assessments, career readiness workshops and programs to rebuild confidence and focus. These graduates have acquired new job search skills and will now receive assistance in finding employment. P2E covers the cost of wages during a trial period where employers can evaluate if a candidate is a good fit for an open position. The trial period is a proactive step toward meeting the hiring needs of Connecticut employers by providing risk-free access to skilled, motivated workers.
P2E’s success is unparalleled. Approximately 80% of graduates from preparatory program take the next step into a work experience with a local business. Of this population, nearly 90% have moved to employer payrolls. The success of Platform to Employment has led to replication in more than a dozen states across the country, including a state-wide initiative in Rhode Island.
“I often tell people that I feel as if Platform to Employment saved my life,” said Gerald Jones, a participant from New Haven. “I learned a great deal about the intricacies of finding a job and rediscovered a sense of personal value and a belief that I had a great deal to offer any employer.”
Members of the press are welcome to cover the event and speak with participants.
WHO: Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman, State of Connecticut
Senator Joseph Markley, 16th District, Prospect, Southington, Wolcott, Waterbury
Senator Carlo Leone, 27th District, Darien, Stamford
Senator Len Suzio, 13th District, Cheshire, Meriden, Middlefield, Middletown, Rockfall
Senator Tony Hwang, 28th District, Easton, Fairfield, Newtown, Weston, Westport
Representative Mary Mushinsky, 85th District, Wallingford
Representative Pam Staneski, 119th District, Milford, Orange
Joseph Carbone, President and CEO, The WorkPlace
Donna Buzik, Participant, Platform to Employment
WHAT: Platform to Employment Graduation
WHERE: State Capitol Building, Old Judiciary Room, 210 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106
WHEN: Thursday, March 9, (Meet with participants 10:30am – Ceremony begins 11:00am)
About The WorkPlace
The WorkPlace conducts comprehensive planning, and coordinates regional workforce development policy and programs to prepare people for careers while strengthening the workforce for employers. As national leader in the field, The WorkPlace regularly shares ideas and best practices with lawmakers, foundations, think tanks and other workforce development organizations around the country. For more information, visit www.workplace.org