2023 has rung itself in. We survived the pandemic…although even as we embark upon beginning this new year, we struggle to leave the effects of 2020 and 2021 totally behind us. Variations of the COVID virus continue to rear up their ugly heads. Sporting events and concerts are full and restaurants are open, but prices are close to out of control as inflation rises, adversely affecting the economy.
Those of us at FIT believe that because of this, our mission is far from complete, in fact, its parameters have expanded. Today, more than ever before, we believe that it is important that we give our community a hand up in rebuilding and regrowth. We have taken that as our obligation.
In response, we are offering more classes leading to industry recognized certifications in fields ranging from truck driving to automotive technology to phlebotomy and nursing assistant. We are teaching people how to rethink their future and see themselves in skilled occupations that they have never tried before. At FIT, young women are becoming truck drivers and forklift operators; some talented people are learning the intricacies of the modern automotive engines and others how to deal with people as they draw blood.
Perhaps the greatest beauty of the FIT program is the fact that we don’t drop people into education and training on a cold call basis. We start with our clients where they are, often still very fragile from the devastation of spending out their entire savings just to feed the family and keep a roof over their heads. We help those who are not sure where they should go next identify a new job goal: something they would like to do for a living. We teach job readiness and basic employment skills including how to use a computer and, if necessary, basic reading and writing. We help those embarking on their new future identify a peer group of people for support and people with whom they can build a solid base going forward.
If a client can’t afford to feed the family while going to school, we will help them with food assistance. If they can’t get to school without help, we will offer transportation assistance. Most importantly, each client will be matched to a Case Manager who will personally and on a one-to-one basis advise, mentor and guide them into their future and remain with them for at least a year after their new employment.
We hope that in these pages you will find something that is of interest to you. We hope that you may be energized to reimagine your employment in a job that you really want to do – or that you will be moved to help somebody else find that independence or decide to contribute to FIT either financially or with your time. If our program intrigues you, we encourage you to reach out to us, come see our operation and get involved. We are all ready for the next chapter. Let us help you explore it.
With appreciation,
Janet Frasier Blumen
Founder and CEO