About Our Program

Our mission
Working together to equip returning citizens
with job skills, dignity and hope

Our vision
Removing walls,
Building community

Program Summary:

WorkWell currently consists of a four-week period of training and counseling, with qualified trainers, mentors and advocates helping to prepare returning citizens not just for a job, but for employment that can be sustained and built upon for many years. It is based on the successful approach of Uplift Solutions, a Philadelphia nonprofit that has helped us adapt its model to the needs of returning citizens in the Mercer County area.

WorkWell is the successor to CookWell, a program that prepared returning citizens for employment in the culinary field between 2018 and 2020, until the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the entire culinary workforce. WorkWell trainees learn skills and attitudes that are relevant to many types of work environment.

How Our Program Works:

Selecting and vetting program applicants. WorkWell works with several partner organizations to identify and screen individuals who are appropriate for the program.

Training. Training takes place at the First Presbyterian Church of Trenton, one of WorkWell’s major partner organizations. The basic curriculum consists of four weeks of full-time training and discussion, facilitated by a professional trainer assisted by local volunteers. Topics include communication skills, dealing with and resolving conflict, working as part of a team, and others that apply to almost every work situation.

Related services. Depending on individual needs, the program also includes assistance with such essential life needs as housing, medical insurance, identification, licenses, and more. WorkWell’s principal partners in delivering such services are the United Way of Greater Mercer County, the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen, and Arm in Arm.

Mentoring. A key component of the program is a group experience which includes mentors from the surrounding community who provide personal support to each participant. The group learning emphasizes community-building, self-efficacy, and emotional and spiritual support. Mentors assist participants to meet their individual goals.

Steps to Success. Our ultimate goal is to provide a steady job, and a steady life, to as many persons as possible. But there are many steps toward that goal.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us.