Teaching those who are experiencing homelessness how to get full-time work and a permanent place to live are two of the objectives of the Reno Works Program.
The 12 week course is run by Volunteers of America and the City of Reno.
Andi Guevara takes a look at the program, now in its second year…
Today is orientation for Reno Works. Day one and former insurance agent John - is hopeful
"(I want to) get back on my feet and regain the focus and direction I need in my life and I’m looking forward to it.”
Participants must be living in Volunteers of America's shelter and must apply for a spot in the program run with the City of Reno. The group meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 7:00 a.m. to begin a six hour work shift.
Pat Cashell, Regional Director for Volunteers of America, explains what a work day in the program entails. “You work in the park, you work along the river, cleaning up the river, they've painted parking garages - just anything that's needed in the community.”
Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursday. “Financial classes, resume building classes, interviewing skills, all those types of things that help you get ahead in life,” says Cashell.
After living in the women's shelter off and on for eight years, Nan says she's ready to get ahead. "It's an opportunity that won’t come again, for me, and I’m looking forward to doing well,” she says, her eyes tearing up and voice shaking with emotion.
Seven groups have completed Reno Works and each are recognized at City Hall after graduation. The program has been very successful in not only getting these men and women full-time jobs, but also getting them out of the shelter and into a home. "A lot of the participants, when they finish the program, they obtain housing and the City supports that through rental assistance," explains Cashell.
"This is just more than a bonus,” says John “I don't know what to say - or how grateful I am"
For more details:
Volunteers of America, Reno… https://www.voa-ncnn.org/family-shelter-reno
