Platform to Employment (P2E) Information

A Source Of Hope For the Long-Term Unemployed The WorkPlace developed Platform to Employment (P2E) to address the need for the long-term unemployed to return to work and the employer need to recruit skilled workers. The program is a public-private partnership which gives businesses a risk-free opportunity to evaluate and consider hiring participants during an eight-week work experience program. We offer individuals a five-week preparatory program, including skills assessment, career readiness workshops, employee assistance programs, coaching and more. Upon program completion, we assist participants find open positions at local companies. Placements are made on a trial basis, paid for by The WorkPlace. The expectation is that if the company is satisfied with the performance of the candidate, a full-time job will ensue. Why P2E Is Needed The recent recession has affected millions in this country – we’re seeing unprecedented economic loss, record high unemployment and the longest duration of people collecting unemployment benefits since the Great Depression. Life for the long-term unemployed has become increasingly difficult: they often feel disconnected from their careers, they watch their skills become less relevant, and many choose to isolate themselves, which often leads to feelings of hopelessness and despair. The result is a once-vibrant workforce has seen their savings and assets erode, while they remain unable to find work. In addition, with so many unemployed competing for fewer jobs, employers have their pick of candidates. Today it’s too easy to discriminate based on a perception of a worker’s abilities and the length of their unemployment. This is more than just an issue for government. Communities must come together to assist those most affected by the recession. If we do not readily respond, these workers will end up in our safety net of public assistance programs that are already over-stressed.