Our intensive four to six month job training program provides real-time work experience, job readiness workshops and one-on-one counseling. Our clients are referred to us from outpatient facilities, shelters, substance abuse treatment programs, and transitional housing programs throughout all five boroughs of New York City. They work 20-24 hours each week on structured service crews cleaning the streets and sidewalks of lower Manhattan and receive a living stipend for their work. Working on the crew teaches the rules and requirements of the workplace and provides valuable recent work experience for resume building.
Project Comeback participants attend mandatory job-readiness workshops in 15 different subjects, including: interpersonal communication, conflict resolution, hygiene and attire, resume writing, interviewing skills, financial management, and employment rights (in relation to criminal histories). We offer weekly Adult Basic Education classes in Math and English as well as introductory computer classes to help our clients develop a working knowledge of computers, Internet usage and basic typing techniques.
We partner with 11 other human service organizations in the city to provide comprehensive assistance in the areas of housing, substance abuse, mental health, and career counseling. Our clients must also continue to attend their ongoing treatment programs to help them maintain sobriety and stability throughout the duration of our program.
Our counselors meet with our clients individually to identify and address any problems that may arise during the program. We believe our unparalleled level of individual attention and support sets us above similar organizations and helps our clients to succeed.
Our clients “graduate” once they have successfully completed our curriculum and secured employment. Every three months, we honor their accomplishments with a commencement ceremony. Past graduations have been generously hosted by the TriBeCa Film Center, Saint Anthony’s Church, Scholastic, and the Saint Patrick’s Old Cathedral Youth Center.