Client Services

The work of Project Place would not be nearly as successful if it were not for the motivation and commitment of our clients. We encourage you to learn more about our programs, services and enterprises.

Basic Services
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Basic services provide clients with some of the first supports they need to overcome poverty and return to self-sufficient, productive lives. These supports include a hot lunch program, referral services on a drop-in basis and individual assessments. Specialized case management and mental health services are provided directly and through referrals. Each year, over 800 individuals receive information and referral services from Project Place through phone inquiries or on a drop-in basis.

Wraparound Support Services
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All Project Place clients receive the following wraparound support services to address the various barriers they may encounter in finding and obtaining employment and housing. A comprehensive, yet personalized approach is utilized with each client to ensure that services meet the individual's needs.

- Case Management: This service provides the essential support and cohesion for all of our programming. After a comprehensive in-take and needs assessment conducted when a client first enters Project Place, case management focuses on referrals to outside resources, work readiness, life skills, childcare, housing and other topics that aid in maintaining an independent life. We continue to support clients with these services up to two years post job placement to ensure long-term success.

- Career Services: Starting at intake and extending two years beyond graduation, this portion of our programming focuses solely on career development, employer relations and best practices for retention. Individuals in all programs receive intensive preparation and support for job placement and advancement. In addition, Project Place develops and maintains relationships with existing and prospective employers to provide clients with critical connections in the job search process.

- Computer Training: Our computer learning center gives clients the opportunity to become versed in a technology to which they would not otherwise have access. Students learn basics in current Microsoft programs (Word, Excel, Publisher), open email accounts, learn to navigate the internet and have access to educational software for reading, writing, grammar, math, resume writing, typing and financial management. The computer lab is an integral part of all programming, with classes integrated into each curriculum and available on a drop-in basis.

- Educational Services: Developed to impact long-term change, educational services provides our clients with basic literacy skills. In the classroom, students are engaged in a meaningful curriculum that includes reading, writing, math, oral communication and critical thinking skills. Volunteers providing one-on-one tutoring to reinforce learned skills.

- Alumni Services: A critical goal of Project Place is the ability of clients to retain their success in housing and employment over the long-term. We provide services to clients in the workforce, developing problem-solving strategies to address work issues and educational or personal gaps. Alumni receive follow-up support for a minimum of two years post-job placement that includes job advancement support helping to map out strategies for career growth, enhanced career workshops, vocational assessments, counseling, resume updating, resources and referrals and updating of computer skills. Alumni meetings and events and ongoing resource referrals are available to all graduates.

Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP)

This new employment, placement and training program provides tailored services specific to veterans. In addition to traditional case management and support services, clients are assessed for veteran’s benefit eligibility, provided referrals for specific needs and given assistance in obtaining discharge papers (DD214).

Client Assistance Programs
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- Danielle Fund: Named to honor the life and memory of Danielle Ontra, this fund was created to support clients and alumni who are making strides to live independently and are committed to their recovery. Clients may apply for funds to alleviate financial burdens up to $500, paid directly to the source (landlord, school, etc.). Included in the application process is identification of the need, developing a budget to manage future expenses and explanation of how compliance of goals aligns with agency mission.

- MicroLoan Fund: A new program of Project Place, our MicroLoan Fund offers small financial loans to assist graduates in overcoming temporary obstacles to successful housing, education and/or employment. In addition, it helps them to develop a positive credit history. A committee comprised of graduates, staff, board and bank representatives, review applications and work with applicants to finalize their request and develop a repayment plan.

- Paul White Empowerment Fund: Established by his family in memory of Paul White, a long time friend and supporter of Project Place. The fund will assist persons served by Project Place to advance their education and/or employment goals. Grants will be given to clients for:

• Tuition for GED, certificate or post secondary education
  
• Books or supplies for educational purposes
  
• Clothing for employment interviews
  
• Other education or employment purposes which meet the goal of the fund