RefugeeWorks :: Training Topics



		Training Topics RefugeeWorks’ workshops are developed and refined based on employment trends, current resettlement patterns and your specific training needs. Examples of recent workshop topics include: Marketing and Communication: How we talk about Refugees How we talk about refugees can positively or negatively impact a newcomer’s ability to successfully integrate in the American workforce. This workshop explores the language we use to talk about our clients, as well as examples of marketing materials for refugee employment programs. Participants will gain a greater awareness of how our own biases can influence our work. Uncovering Hidden Jobs Approximately 80% of jobs are considered "hidden" in today's job market. As a refugee employment specialist, how can you tap into the "hidden job" market to expand the employment assistance you offer to your clients? This workshop will show you how to tackle the hidden job market in a professional and organized way. During a special field exercise you can put theory into practice, and gain new business contacts from employers who are looking for reliable, skilled workers. Healthcare Hotspots Refugees represent an untapped labor pool for the healthcare industry's growing need for workers. Or particular interest is the proposed resettlement of 12,000 Iraqi refugees in fiscal year 2008, many of whom have professional backgrounds as nurses, doctors, and research scientists. Explore the labor market trends of the healthcare industry in your area and the needs of refugee workers interested in entering the healthcare field during this session. RefugeeWorks will also share strategies collected from around the country for developing partnerships with hospitals and community colleges for accelerated healthcare training programs. Tackling Transportation The issue of transportation and its link to refugee and asylee self-sufficiency is an ever present topic among refugee resettlement agencies. When RefugeeWorks asked employment specialists about the greatest obstacles that refugees seeking employment face, language ability (94 percent) and transportation (57 percent) were their most popular answers. This presentation will explore different approaches, and will highlight best practices that resettlement organizations can utilize to overcome transportation obstacles. Surveying the Job Scene There is no right way to find a job, but there are some strategies that are more efficient than others. This workshop explores how to dramatically increase job placements by providing a strategic approach to the job search process. Also, learn how to remain up to date on new trends in the labor market. Engaging Employers in Refugee Employment Programs Sustaining relationships with employers goes beyond the first job placement. Strong employer relations are the cornerstone of successful refugee employment programs. In this workshop, hear how providers across the country have strengthened their relationships with local employers and gone beyond traditional placements with their business partners. Overcoming Barriers to Employment In this workshop RefugeeWorks shares strategies used by service providers across the country to overcome barriers such as child care, transportation, and health. Workshop participants also learn from each other about approaches that are working in their local setting. This session can also address client resistance and helpful tips for empowering clients in their job search and career planning. Skills Assessment for Newcomers Matching a refugee’s skills and experiences with the right job starts the momentum for long-term self-sufficiency. This workshop introduces several techniques for asking open-ended questions and highlights useful assessment tools currently being used in the field. From First Job to Best Job Refugees come to the United States with a variety of skills and work experience. Our job as service providers is to help refugees connect their previous experience to not only a first job but a long-term career. This workshop explores career laddering and recredentialing – two important tools to help refugees become established and grow as U.S. workers. Post placement: Improving Retention Rates Helping a refugee client secure their first job is only the first step in our interaction with our clients. Seasoned professionals recognize that keeping a job is just as important as getting the job. In this workshop, participants learn several techniques that are proven to increase retention rates Financial Literacy This workshop presents significant findings from RefugeeWorks’ recent research project on financial literacy among newcomers. Sample curriculums, activities and program models are presented as participants discuss how to incorporate financial literacy initiatives into their employment services. Funding Strategies Diversified funding streams are crucial to maintaining and strengthening a successful refugee employment program. This workshop identifies elements of a successful fundraising approach, identifies current funding opportunities and gives participants an opportunity to assess their current fundraising plan.				2009 SCHEDULE Employment Training Institute Focus: Match Grant Program San Jose, California March 17-19, 2009 Host: International Rescue Committee of San Jose Employment Training Institute Focus: Employment Strategies A-Z Raleigh, NC August 11-13, 2009 Host: The North Carolina State Refugee Office Download ETI registration form here. National Recertification Conference East Lansing, Michigan June 22-24, 2009 Host: Michigan State University Download a conference registration form here .

Training Topics

2009 SCHEDULE