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JCC offering assistance and hope for displaced employees and those facing layoffs and job uncertainty

Difficult times, the changing global economy and the ever increasing prospect of losing your job, has inspired Jackson Community College to pull together resources and provide hope in time for the holidays. “Holidays are stressful enough in good times, but for those who have lost their jobs or are in the process, it’s incredibly stressful on the individual and their family members”, said JCC President Daniel J. Phelan, Ph.D. “These people are JCC’s extended family, and we’re here to help and give hope for the future.”

“Jackson Community College is committed to assisting area workers through this difficult time and guide them in finding new careers that can help them, their families, put a smile on their face, and keep them in the community,” said President Phelan. “As a community college, we are committed to responding with a personalized approach to each employee’s special circumstances. We also feel their urgency to get re-skilled quickly and for that reason, I’m committed to giving each Jackson County displaced worker six JCC credit hours of instruction, along with free sessions on updating computer skills, resume building and, stress management to give each individual the best formula for success. We know that we are the best resource for these dedicated workers.”

JCC offers career programs in high-demand fields that can help place workers back into the job market quickly. Workers can be re-trained for jobs in: computer service, law enforcement and corrections, business and accounting, medical assisting, graphic and web design, administrative assisting and more.

To that end, Jackson Community College will host a special Career Opportunity Workshop for workers who have recently been displaced or are facing job layoffs on Tuesday, Dec. 12 from noon to 2:30 p.m. and again from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Federer Rooms in Potter Center on JCC’s main campus. JCC received a quick and positive response from Spring Arbor University and Baker College on this initiative. All three of the county’s higher educational institutions will be on hand as we work collaboratively to help individuals put the pieces of their lives back together. Skilled and compassionate advisors and faculty members will be on hand to de-mystify the college process, help individuals with career discovery, and give one-on-one personal service. There will be child care available on the premises, refreshments, and licensed counselors for those who just need a compassionate ear to express their concerns, worries and frustration.

A number of free skills workshops are planned for early January to help these displaced workers who have been out of school for a while prepare for college. These workshops will address resources available, help students identify their learning style, learn study strategies that will help students succeed, assist in career path exploration, including assistance for those with technology anxiety. We ask that you RSVP so we have adequate daycare workers, college advisors and refreshments available. To RSVP, ask a specific question and/or set up a personal appointment, please call Julie Hand, director of enrollment management, at 517.796.8499. Also, information will be updated on the college web site, www.jccmi.edu.