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Start Date for High School Equivalency Program Moved to July



The start date for the summer session of the New Jersey Youth Corps training and education program offered at Project Self-Sufficiency has been moved to July 10th.  Through the innovative program young adults, ages 16 – 25, can boost their literacy skills, prepare for the high school equivalency exam, get on-the-job work experience, and transition into a career, college or the military.  Project Self-Sufficiency is offering a $100 gift card to those who refer a student to the program; referred individuals must enroll in the program, complete the two-week orientation and be inducted into the program.  Participants must be Sussex or Warren County residents, aged 16 – 25, who have not completed high school.  

More than 60 young adults have joined the New Jersey Youth Corps at Project Self-Sufficiency since the program’s launch in September, 2016.  The program includes assessments, testing, employability skills training, life skills workshops, academic instruction, community service projects, field trips, and counseling services.  Program participants will prepare for the high school equivalency examination, and receive a stipend of $100 per week, based on attendance for the full week.  Free transportation is provided.  Childcare is also provided free of charge at the Little Sprouts Early Learning Center. 

Interested students are invited to learn more about the New Jersey Youth Corps at one of the Open Houses scheduled for Wednesday, May 24th and May 31st, at 5:00 p.m.; Tuesday, June 5th, at 12:00 p.m.; Monday, June 12th at 10:00 a.m.; Tuesday, June 20th, at 4:00 p.m.; or Wednesday, June 28th, at 5:00 p.m.

“This innovative program offers young adults the opportunity to earn a high school diploma, obtain on-the-job training, and receive essential support as they move on to college, a career or military service,” explains Project Self-Sufficiency Executive Director Deborah Berry-Toon.  “We work closely with Sussex County Community College to implement testing for the high school equivalency exam and provide transition services for those students who want to continue their education.  In addition, the New Jersey Youth Corps participants can take advantage of Project Self-Sufficiency’s state-of-the-art Career Center, our on-site childcare center and case management services.” 


Recent New Jersey Youth Corps program graduate Joseph Hartmann learned about the program from his high school guidance counselor.  After struggling with drug addiction in middle school, Hartmann had a hard time coping in high school.  He received his high school diploma through the New Jersey Youth Corps instead.  “Before this program, I was lost and I did not know how I was going to be able to get my diploma and move on with my life,” remarked Hartmann.  “When I passed by first test, I realized that this was a good idea, and that I could make something of myself.  This has made me more responsible.  I take things more seriously with my life.”  Hartmann hopes to pursue a career as an auto mechanic.

The New Jersey Youth Corps, which is funded by the New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development, is also in operation at sites around the state, including Camden, Elizabeth, Jersey City, New Brunswick, Newark, Paterson, Phillipsburg, Pleasantville, Trenton and Vineland.  Those who are interested in learning more about the New Jersey Youth Corps at Project Self-Sufficiency are encouraged to call 973-940-3500.  To register for the New Jersey Youth Corps at Project Self-Sufficiency, or to find out more about other programs and services offered by Project Self-Sufficiency, visit www.projectselfsufficiency.org.

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