Job Readiness assists clients in the areas of career planning, job search tools, resume preparation, educational referrals, and employment maintenance. Clients can use the center’s computers at our center on weekdays from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. The Computer Cafe offers clients access to computers, basic computer education, email addresses, and classes to help with the job search via the Internet.
Women’s Group – ( Safe space group) – In collaboration with Victim Services of Montgomery County, the Center hosts a group where women get together and have discussions about wellness, resiliency, and empowerment. The participants also receive information about supportive services, counseling and resources offered by the Victim Services Unit.
Art Therapy Group – Since the mid twentieth century art has been recognized as therapeutic process. Art offers the freedom to express emotions that are sometimes hard to share and verbalize. Art contributes to emotional effects on many levels: it can help to explore feelings, reconcile emotions, manage behavior and addictions, develop social skills, reduce anxiety and increase self-esteem. Many who are homeless or vulnerably housed tend to struggle with depression, emotional issues, long-term addictions and social anxieties. Through art therapy, our clients are able to better grapple with their personal situations, distract themselves from sadness, and restore a sense of personal well-being. It allows them a creative outlet to express themselves.
Life Skills Group – Life skills support groups at the Hospitality Center aim at addressing the barriers to employment with exercises that promote practical outcomes. Participants will learn to deal with their emotions and gain knowledge about the culture of the work environment. Participants will be encouraged to recognize their strengths in dealing with stress-related issues. The expectation will be that participants will become empowered to pursue educational/employment goals while improving in the area of general life skills.
Some of the client’s responses about our extended hours are:
“It is a blessing that you are open longer.”
“You guys are open even when the library is closed.”
“I enjoy the groups here.”
“It is easier to sleep at night since we are not walking the streets all day.”
“I’m thankful for the warmth.”