Training the Next Generation
Froedtert Hospital’s Reach Program is designed to help young adults in the urban community pursue careers in health care. In partnership with workforce intermediaries and community based agencies, Froedtert provides a six-month, well-paying experience for individuals ages 18 - 24 who have or are within six months of receiving their HS diploma or GED, but lack the skills or experience to compete in the job market.
While participating in work readiness programs through the intermediary, the students work at Froedtert about 20 hours a week, for six months. In addition to working with a supervisor, students are also assigned a mentor. Mentors are not directly involved in the students’ day-to-day work, but offer their time, advice and energy to enhance the learning experience of the students.
The 2008 participants worked 20 hours a week for six months in Transport, Sterile Processing and Staff Development departments. Program participants are often hired as optional part-time staff after completing the program.
Here is what Kenric, hired on in Sterile Processing, and Brittnay, hired on in Staff Development, had to say about the Reach Program:
Kenric: “Everyone was really positive and encouraging. It gave me a sense of security that I needed, especially during our economy today. This is the only place where I know for a fact that my employer cares about me.”
Brittnay: “The Reach program introduced me to different areas in such a diverse environment. It gave me enough time to learn my job and also shadow other areas if desired.”
Last Review Date: Oct. 22, 2009 Online Editor(s): Richard Petre |