Any program that helps anyone learn job skills is a program that also helps build confidence, self esteem and hope. This program does just that and I’m proud of all my friends of SCCAP for following their dream to create Growing Opportunities. Check it out and support them! – Deb
Growing Opportunities
To learn more, contact Nicole Wooten, Growing Opportunities Manager, , 812-332-2168 x 281. Like them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/SCCAPGrowingOpportunities)
Growing Opportunities is a new social business project of the South Central Community Action Program. They are an urban farm that provides job-training opportunities for low-income people with barriers to employment. The first greenhouse is located at 2815 E 10th St in Bloomington. Here they grow hydroponic produce that’s sold to local eateries, supermarkets, hospitals and schools. This revenue helps make the project sustainable. They offer a tuition-free 20-week course, covering four modules: hands on skills, job readiness skills, soft skill development, and job search skills, focusing on skills that are transferable to any job in any industry. Graduates receive job placement assistance. In April the inaugural Growing Opportunities Job Skills Training Class began with eight clients.
Growing Opportunities was a response by South Central Community Action Program (SCCAP) to address the disparate employment statistics for people with disabilities within our community, and other low-income people. The program model was inspired by the program Arthur and Friends, a farming and social services project in New Jersey.
Growing Opportunities has received financial support from City of Bloomington, Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County, Geller Foundation, The Glick Fund, Indiana State Department of Agriculture, Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority, Lucky’s Market, Monroe County Master Gardener Association, Old National Bank Foundation and Perry Township.