MACAA Strengthens Partnerships with Network2Work
Poverty is a complex problem that requires shared solutions. The Network2Work, a collaborative program offered by Piedmont Virginia Community College, has found a way to address that complexity head-on. By working with a network of employers, service providers, and “peers” in the community, the Network2Work has established a new approach to lifting people out of poverty.
MACAA has participated in this effort since the beginning. Nancy Kidd, Hope House Director, was one of the first peers to participate in the program—sponsoring job-seekers on the path to self-sufficiency. Now, we are excited to bring more of our staff on board with this collaborative approach. On October 22, our Head Start Family Advocates and Rural Outreach Director joined the program as peers. They too will be able to connect job-seekers with opportunities to overcome obstacles, gain new credentials, and achieve living wage employment.
During a training by Sarah Mendoza, Peer Network Coordinator, we learned how to help people access the resources they need to attain additional education and thrive in a new job. Our staff already work hard to help their clients achieve their own goals. Now they have additional tools to strengthen our own services and connect with other providers.
Partnerships are critical to MACAA’s work. We are thrilled to participate in the Network2Work, which brings the whole community together to make living wage employment a viable path out of poverty. Thank you to Sarah Mendoza for showing us the ropes!
