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Community Work Services and Fedcap’s Apex Clean Energy Institute Awarded $200,000 Workforce Grant by State of Massachusetts to Train Returning Citizens in Solar Energy

Community Work Services and Fedcap’s Apex Clean Energy Institute Awarded $200,000 Workforce Grant by State of Massachusetts to Train Returning Citizens in Solar Energy

Boston, MA—July 12—Community Work Services in partnership with Fedcap’s Apex Technical School have received a $200,000 grant from the Re-Entry Workforce Development Demonstration Grants program, sponsored by Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, to continue their work in the already successful solar photovoltaic installation training program at CWS in Boston. Classes will comprise returning citizens following incarceration.

The Apex Clean Energy Institute’s 450-hour solar training program provides hands-on training in solar photovoltaic installation that result in well-paying, sustainable jobs in the high demand clean energy sector. Specifics of the program include basic digital skills and financial literacy, micro grids/smart grids and solar energy systems design, safety, fall protection, construction, power tools, safe operation, pipe bending, and racking assembly.

In the first solar training class offered this past winter at CWS to returning citizens, 80% of those enrolled completed the program and 75% were placed in jobs averaging $54,000 annually. A recent report by the Brookings Institution has found lower recidivism from returning citizens if they have sustainable employment.

Graduates of the 450-hour solar energy training program will receive six college credits from The Fedcap Group’s partner Paul Smith’s College. These credits can be used at Paul Smith’s or other colleges or universities to secure pathways into other certificate and degree programs to participate in additional upskilling to graduates of the Apex Clean Energy Institute.

“CWS and The Fedcap Group are dedicated to creating pathways to economic well-being that go beyond simply getting people a job,” said Christine McMahon, President and CEO of The Fedcap Group, the parent company of CWS and Apex. “Our mission is focused on creating opportunities that encourage people to aim high and obtain work that has long-term prospects, and our solar technician training program is doing just that.”

“CWS has been working with the Boston Community for more than 145 years, providing high-quality job skills training and employment opportunities, and the Apex Clean Energy Institute has already put people to work in high-demand, sustainable positions with career potential,” said Craig Stenning, Executive Director of CWS Boston. “We appreciate the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s belief in our program and their dedication to addressing workforce development for all.”

The launch of the new Apex Clean Energy Institute was made possible by funding from the
Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development, Commonwealth Corporation, and National Grid Foundation.

About The Fedcap Group
For 87 years, The Fedcap Group has developed scalable, innovative, and potentially disruptive solutions to some of society’s most pressing needs. Serving 340,000 people this past fiscal year, The Fedcap Group provides educational services to every age group, vocational training and job attainment in high-growth industries, as well as support services such as behavioral health services—all targeted to helping people achieve long-term self-sufficiency. The Fedcap Group also invests its time and resources in broader system change—working in partnership with federal, state, and local government to improve the way services are designed, funded, and delivered.

About CWS
Founded in 1877, Community Work Services (CWS) helps people who face barriers to work obtain employment and achieve self-sufficiency through innovative job training, placement and support services. CWS is a company of The Fedcap Group.

About Apex Technical School
Since 1961, Apex Technical School has enjoyed a rich tradition of service to New Yorkers who know us well for our adult vocational technical school which offers training in skilled trades. Our hands-on training courses give individuals the basic trade and labor skills needed to secure an entry-level position in the field. Located in Long Island City in Queens, Apex offers 900-hour certificate courses in high demand areas such as: air conditioning and refrigeration, automotive service, welding technology, electrical and advanced electrical, plumbing and construction. All of Apex’s trade programs offer hands-on training in as little as 7 months. Apex is licensed by the New York State Education Department and accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.

Apex Technical School is a nonprofit organization and a member of The Fedcap Group, an international nonprofit, dedicated to creating opportunities for people with barriers to economic well-being.

Contact:
Susan Walsh, 212-727-4200, (SWalsh@fedcap.org)

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Community Work Services Launches New Apex Clean Energy Institute in Boston

Community Work Services Launches New Apex Clean Energy Institute in Boston

December 13, 2022

Kicks Off with High Demand Training for Placement into Well-Paying, Sustainable Jobs in the Solar Energy Industry; Will be Expanded to Wind Power & Other Renewable Energy Sources in the Future

First Class Enrolled in Solar Training Program are Returning Citizens who Were Formerly Incarcerated to help them Secure Path to Economic Well-Being

Students Who Complete Program Will be Awarded Six College Credits from Paul Smith’s College to Pursue Additional Higher Education Programs

Boston, MA—Community Work Services in partnership with Apex Technical School and Power52 Clean Energy Access Institute today announced they are launching a new Clean Energy Institute to train underrepresented communities in high demand, well-paying jobs in solar energy. CWS, Apex Technical School, and Power52 are all affiliates of The Fedcap Group, a nonprofit focused on achieving economic well-being for underserved communities.

The 450-hour solar training program created by Power52 Clean Energy Access and Apex Technical School and taught at CWS will provide training in basic digital skills and financial literacy, as well as micro grids/smart grids and solar energy systems design. In addition, the program will provide hands-on lab training in solar photovoltaic installation including, safety, fall protection, construction, power tools, safe operation, pipe bending, and racking assembly.

The first class of students comprises returning citizens to the community following incarceration. A recent report by the Brookings Institution has found lower recidivism from returning citizens if they have sustainable employment.

Graduates of the 450-hour solar energy training program will receive six college credits from The Fedcap Group’s partner Paul Smith’s College. These credits can be used at Paul Smith’s or other colleges or universities to secure pathways into other certificate and degree programs to participate in additional upskilling to graduates of the Apex Clean Energy Institute.

“The Apex Clean Energy Institute will be a model we will replicate in many underserved communities as a way of providing job skills in high demand sectors that will result in sustainable employment for those too often left behind,” said Christine McMahon, President and CEO of The Fedcap Group. “CWS is doing important work building pathways to economic well-being by connecting individuals, like returning citizens, with an array of programs and educational opportunities from shorter job training programs all the way up to college degrees.”

“CWS has been working with the Boston Community for 145 years, providing high-quality job skills training and employment opportunities, combined with the tools and strategies that enhance our participants’ ability to gain and retain employment,” said Craig Stenning, Executive Director of CWS Boston. “The Clean Energy Access Institute is the next step in our efforts to ensure our participants learn skills that will serve them for many years to come, and with the growing demand for sustainable energy sources, this training is a natural fit.”

“The expected demand for solar photovoltaic installers is expected to grow by 52% over the next decade with a starting median salary near $50,000 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics,” said Robert Wallace, Founder and CEO of Power52 Clean Energy Access Institute. “Our training will change the lives of many individuals and their families in a meaningful and positive way. I’m proud of our team that made this happen.”

“The Apex Clean Energy Institute will provide our graduates with the skills necessary to join the growing green energy field. In addition to receiving a certificate students will also receive credits towards a college degree,” said Steve Markowitz, President of Apex Technical School. “Thanks to our partner Paul Smith’s College we are able to create a path for CWS graduates that choose to take the next step and go on to college.”

The launch of the new Apex Clean Energy Institute was made possible by funding from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development, Commonwealth Corporation, and National Grid Foundation.

The Fedcap Group also thanked the following agencies for their support of the project: City of Boston Public Safety/Office of Workforce Development, Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, Citizens Energy Group, Nexamp, and Resonant Energy.

About The Fedcap Group
For 87 years, The Fedcap Group has developed scalable, innovative, and potentially disruptive solutions to some of society’s most pressing needs. Serving 340,000 people this past fiscal year, The Fedcap Group provides educational services to every age group, vocational training and job attainment in high-growth industries, as well as support services such as behavioral health services—all targeted to helping people achieve long-term self-sufficiency. The Fedcap Group also invests its time and resources in broader system change—working in partnership with federal, state, and local government to improve the way services are designed, funded, and delivered.

About CWS
Founded in 1877, Community Work Services (CWS) helps people who face barriers to work obtain employment and achieve self-sufficiency through innovative job training, placement and support services. CWS is a company of The Fedcap Group.

About Apex Technical School
Since 1961, Apex Technical School has enjoyed a rich tradition of service to New Yorkers who know us well for our adult vocational technical school which offers training in skilled trades. Our hands-on training courses give individuals the basic trade and labor skills needed to secure an entry-level position in the field. Located in Long Island City in Queens, Apex offers 900-hour certificate courses in high demand areas such as: air conditioning and refrigeration, automotive service, welding technology, electrical and advanced electrical, plumbing and construction. All of Apex’s trade programs offer hands-on training in as little as 7 months. Apex is licensed by the New York State Education Department and accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.

Apex Technical School is a nonprofit organization and a member of The Fedcap Group, an international nonprofit, dedicated to creating opportunities for people with barriers to economic well-being.

About Paul Smith’s College
As the only four-year institution of higher education located in the Adirondack Park in upstate New York, Paul Smith’s College provides real-world, hands-on learning in fields such as business and hospitality, culinary management, forestry, environmental sciences, and natural resources. The college draws on industries and resources available in the region while preparing students for successful careers anywhere. The community of resourceful, enterprising, supportive, and adventurous individuals collectively provides experiential education, student support in the classroom and beyond, and meaningful opportunities for alumni. The college conducts research and advocacy on issues that improve the planet and the lives of the people who inhabit it. Learn more at paulsmiths.edu.

Contact:
Susan Walsh, 212-727-4200, (SWalsh@fedcap.org)

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Matthew Kelleher Finds a Home, a Mentor and a Job at Community Work Services

Matthew Kelleher

At Community Work Services, Matthew Kelleher found just what he needed, at just the right time—a mentor, a family-like atmosphere, and a sustainable job.

Growing up in Springfield, MA Matthew has seen a lot of violence in his life, and as a young man lived with the feeling that each day could be his last. After his older brother passed away in 2010, he fell into a cycle of drug abuse that would spiral out of control. “My brother was everything,” Matthew said. “I had two young kids and I wasn’t a father figure at all.”

Matthew was involved with the criminal justice system during those years, incarcerated for a time and sent to rehab programs. In early 2020 he relapsed during a visit to his hometown, MA, but this time he was hospitalized under a civil commitment order. Shortly after that he had what he called a spiritual awakening—he was “sick and tired of being sick and tired.”

“Something changed,” Matthew said. “I stopped worrying, stopped thinking about ways to get out of the program. I just did what I knew I needed to do.”

After leaving the hospital, while living in a halfway house and participating in recovery services, Matthew was referred to CWS. He met the trainers and team, and also Tim Muise. An inspiration to many, Tim, who serves as Program Coordinator for CWS, gave a speech that still resonates with Matthew—don’t let the past define you, and today is first day of the rest of your life.

Tim shared his own story about being a returning citizen—how after a lengthy prison sentence he came to CWS and today is not only the agency’s Program Director, but also an inspiration and mentor to others who may have made bad choices but are looking to turn their lives around.

“I was already motivated, but for him to say that he was showing me another person who has made it, who has turned their life around, it really challenged and motivated me even more,” Matthew said

Matthew will never forget August 30th 2021; it’s the day he began the commercial cleaning training program–and also enrolled in an online university program to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology. As he made the rounds during training and met just about everyone on the agency’s six floors, Matthew was struck by the fact that no matter where he went, it felt like family. “I saw how much everybody cared about us as people and participants.”

Even after his graduation from the Commercial Cleaning Program, Matthew still sought out the supportive, family-like atmosphere at CWS, returning each day to serve as a volunteer and to maintain his daily routine. Tim could see how serious Matthew was about changing his life, so when a position opened up for supervisor in CWS’ Commercial Production program, he offered Matthew the job. It was a wise choice.

“Matthew was an excellent trainee, and he took our program model to heart,” Tim said. “He has really good acumen with clients, can work with anyone, and he is a very gentle and kind person who wants people to succeed.”

“I snatched the job right up,” Matthew said, “I had a habit of limiting myself, and settling for things, but Tim helps me see you can do anything you want in life. Every day, he sends out awesome and encouraging emails.

As Supervisor of Commercial Production, Matthew had the opportunity to meet many participants in CWS programs, including many with disabilities, and it really opened his eyes. “To be able to help them, and to see how hard they want to work, I am speechless. Giving back to these great participants that’s why I wake up every day and I look forward to coming here.”

Matthew’s natural empathy and skilled ways of interacting with participants were recognized within the CWS family, and he was offered a job as Case Manager. “It’s awesome to be able to help guide people to the right direction in life, and help them get back into the workforce. At CWS they find your best qualities and make use of them.”

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CWS Gala Highlights 145 Years of Impact

CWS Gala Highlights 145 Years of Impact

Community Work Services’ annual Gala was special in so many ways. The Gala marked the 145th anniversary of this venerable organization that was founded in 1877 as the Cooperative Society of Visitors Among the Poor of Boston. With a mission to provide services to those in need by addressing the roots of poverty through employment, education, and housing improvements, CWS is part of the fabric of the Greater Boston community.

The inspiring and energized event, held at the Boston Hyatt Regency and attended by over 200 people, honored CWS’ history, heritage and legacy, as well as some of Boston’s most valiant champions whose contributions are what keep Boston strong!

“Our 145th Anniversary Gala was such a success in so many ways,” said CWS Executive Director Craig Stenning. “We filled the room with friends and supporters, shared a wonderful meal and exceeded our revenue targets. Our presenters and Honorees told the story of CWS in a very powerful way—a story of hope and excellence, and of 145 years of helping individuals with barriers to economic well-being live lives full of possibility, opportunity, security, and hope.”

One of many highlights was when Erika Tarantal, Emmy Award Winning Journalist, WCVB Channel 5, and the evening’s MC, introduced Mass. Governor Charlie Barker, who offered kind words and thanks for CWS’ service to the community. Lauren Baker, 1st Lady of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, was presented with a Public Service Award for her tireless work on behalf of the state’s nonprofit agencies. Also present in the room were a host of state representatives and city councilors.

Christine McMahon, President and CEO of The Fedcap Group, offered inspiring words about the persistence of CWS and honored its beloved outgoing Board Chair Paul Davis. “It is remarkable that throughout the momentous events of the past 145 years, CWS stayed strong, rising to the task of meeting the ever-changing needs of the city of Boston. This does not happen but for steady, savvy leadership at the top level—and for nearly 20 years that leadership resided with Paul Davis. I know from personal experience as a CEO, how much lighter the load is when you know you have a real partner in the work. I am certain both Serena and Craig sincerely appreciated Paul’s guidance and insight.”

CWS was founded by Annie Fields, a revered figure in Boston’s history. At the Gala, Paul Davis presented the Annie Fields Founder’s Award to Serena Powell, who served as CEO of CWS from 2004 to 2017, and is now Executive Director of Fedcap Maine. “Annie Fields led with courage and strength, and those words fit Serena to a t,” Paul said. “Serena implemented new programs, imposed fiscal discipline, and put in place modern structure and governance. She initiated growth that allowed us to serve more participants with better results. Thank you Serena for your many years of service and for the impact you made on so many lives. ”

In accepting the award, Serena said–“Today, we talk about inclusion, diversity, equity, social justice and accessibility, but these are not new concepts. The women who founded CWS knew that our society would be better if everyone, not just some, are supported to succeed.”

Other highlights from the evening included a successful paddle raise fundraiser to help returning citizens, as well as a program to provide job coaching and placement services for Ukrainian refugees who are coming to Boston in search of a new and safe life. It also included presenting the Helen Keller Leadership Award to State Senator William Brownsberger, who played a key role in both the criminal justice reforms of 2018 and the police reforms of 2020, and presenting the 2022 Participant Award to Joshua Fatal, a returning citizen. Joshua inspired the gathering with his powerful story about the journey that brought him to CWS—and to success and sustainable employment.

“CWS helped me get a job at a Boston Hotel,” Joshua said. “It changed my life. The training at CWS helped me get into this role and provided me with a foundation for the future. They gave me all the tools I need to succeed, and I am so grateful.”


View the gala program.  


Help CWS Continue a Legacy of Changing Lives

CWS is committed to assisting individuals who experience multiple barriers to employment.
Donate Here
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Celebrating the Strength and Tenacity of Women

Celebrating the Strength and Tenacity of Women

Celebrating the Strength and Tenacity of Women

March is National Women’s History Month, which recognizes the contributions of women to history, society and culture. The month-long observance, celebrated since 1987, honors women who changed history—women like Abigail Adams, Sojourner Truth, Susan B. Anthony and Rosa Parks—and countless others who, despite systemic discrimination, fought for equality and justice, and achieved greatness in their chosen field of endeavor.

Despite the incredible courage and hard work of generations of women, we are still a long way from an equitable society. Women constitute 27 percent of Congress, but over half the population. At Fortune 500 companies, women account for just over seven percent of CEOs. Women make up only 28 percent of the STEM workforce. Women’s median earnings are 80.8 percent those of men. A black woman has to work 19 months to earn what white men do in a year, according to the National Partnership for Women and Families. Latina women earn $0.57 for every dollar earned by white men.

Across the U.S., 15.5 percent of women live in poverty compared with 11.9 percent of men. Retired women are twice as likely as retired men to live in poverty. Workplace sexual harassment and assault are common, and drive many women from their jobs. Sixty-six percent of female service members report sexual harassment or assault. As many as one in four women are victims of domestic violence.

These inequalities and injustices were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has had a disproportionate impact on women’s participation in the workforce, placed greater burdens on paid and unpaid caregivers, and increased rates of domestic violence. Today, the constitutional right to abortion is threatened as States seek to restrict and deny critical reproductive health care and bodily autonomy.

Yet women everywhere, inspired by heroines who changed history, are making great strides in the ongoing fight for equality. According to A Proclamation on Women’s History Month, 2022 by President Joe Biden—“Women of the labor movement are achieving monumental reforms to help all workers secure the better pay, benefits, and safety they deserve. LGBTQI+ women and girls are leading the fight for justice, opportunity, and equality — especially for the transgender community. Women and girls continue to lead groundbreaking civil rights movements for social justice and freedom, so that everyone can realize the full promise of America.”

The companies of The Fedcap Group are represented by women at every level, and we are stronger for it. Please join us during this Women’s History Month in honoring women who have changed the world, and those who continue the struggle for equality and fairness.

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CWS Newsletter – January – February 2022

Community Work Services Newsletter - January - February 2022

The January-February CWS Newsletter is available here.  

In this issue:

 

  • CWS Receives a Major Grant
  • Community Beautification Project Improves Downtown North area
  • Job opportunity: Block by Block Ambassador Program with MBTA
  • Nick's Success Story: from commercial cleaning trainee to MBTA Ambassador
  • Community Beautification Project Improves Downtown North area
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Community Work Services Newsletter – October 2021

Community Work Services Newsletter - October 2021

The October 2021 CWS Newsletter is available here. Read more about our work on Fenway Park Neighborhood and Downtown North beautification projects. Also in this edition: our At Your Service students met with hotel and hospitality professionals at the Omni Seaport Hotel and the Boxer Hotel. And, our latest success story is Darnell McCarter. 

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CWS July 2021 Newsletter

Community Work Services Newsletter - July 2021

The July 2021 CWS Newsletter is available here.  In this edition, we thank our newest sponsors: MacFarlane Foundation, Tufts Medical Center, People’s United Community Foundation, and Boston Planning & Development Agency’s Fenway Park Community Benefits Fund. Learn more about our “At Your Service” program re-opening on August 23, and meet Lenwood Buchanan, our latest success story.

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