Preparing for Careers

At COMPASS, we realize that the youth we serve are not ready for traditional job placement programs; they need basic job readiness skills.  Often, our young people don’t make it past the application process.

We also realize that our youth need a safe space to practice these skills and a safe place to fail.  We plan for failure and use it as a learning opportunity.

Youth enrolled in our program participate in the following activities.

• One-on-one intervention and support for youth at risk of violence and/or school failure through relationship-building with caring adult role models (Peacebuilders case managers, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week).
• All youth engage in group-based activities in safe spaces, including:
• • Mandatory CBT (Cognitive Behavior Theory) groups each week.  CBT helps youth become aware of inaccurate or negative thinking so they can view challenging situations more clearly and respond to them more effectively.
  • Community-building restorative circle groups.  Restorative Circles allow youth to speak and listen to one another in an atmosphere of safety, decorum, and equality.
• Youth work with Job Specialists who provide basic employment training (soft skills, time management) and financial literacy education.
• Licensed Clinical Social Workers help youth deal with workplace issues, guiding them through employment challenges.

Along with valuable work experience, participants have the opportunity to continue their education and earn career certifications.