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-MONDAY: The Job Readiness Workshop kicks off with a greeting from the staff member who conducts the workshop. He or she gives a short summary of THE BETTER WAY philosophy and program and talks about the dignity of each individual. This icebreaker gives participants a preview of what to expect.

A presentation follows on the possibility of a new beginning with new opportunities. Strong emphasis is placed on a new beginning. It is made crystal clear that the past is past, over and done with, regardless of the individual's history. A new beginning takes precedence. It can be a reality for everyone. This moves into a discussion about the uniqueness of each; gifts, talents and graces of each; and the importance of Self.

Dialogue continues about the staff's understanding of life's realities and the circumstances and conditions that brings participants to a time and place for a new beginning. Who is responsible for an individual being present and the conduct of each, and where each wants to go with their lives is frankly discussed.

Next is talk about the family atmosphere and the power of a new community through THE BETTER WAY. This confidence builder leads to discussing possible problems in the old community and how some will want to keep participants on their level. Talk continues about everyone working together to encourage, support and guide each other and the help that comes through the new community.

A short break is called. The next segment involves a fun time of introductions by name, where participants live, how they found out about THE BETTER WAY and the sharing of work experience. The hopes and dreams of each individual are also shared. Participants make nametags, and there is discussion about the importance and significance of a name. The uniqueness of each as unrepeatable gifts to history is also brought out. Then a personal witness is provided from a former graduate who has overcome difficulties and is on a new journey or a story is told about an individual who has overcome great odds to make a significant contribution to history.

A positive closing statement affirms the individual's dignity with the encouragement for all to return to participate in the total experience of the workshop. A way to say "No!" to the negative is provided with a way to meet and overcome the challenge of returning. The wrap-up includes the importance of being on time. Individuals are assured about the support they can count on from THE BETTER WAY.

TUESDAY: The first half of the second day is formatted for participants to see life from a different attitude and with a different viewpoint. This is accomplished through a series of exercises that develop a different attitude and viewpoint. Once a fresh outlook is developed, individuals open themselves to discover personal possibilities that could lead to a job or career appropriate to their interests and dreams. The second half of the day involves a testing and evaluation process.

The morning icebreaker requires participants to stand and state something unique about them for future identification. This provides insight on how individuals see themselves and reduces tension for all to be more open to new possibilities. Most importantly, it gets them on their feet.

The first exercise involves a black and white picture of a lady. From one view she is an old woman who appears to have had a hard and difficult life. Upside down the same picture presents a beautiful, smiling lady with a different attitude about life's possibilities. This lays the groundwork to discuss the impact of personal attitudes and viewpoints on life. It is valuable to stress the power and control attitudes have and the difference it makes when looking at life with a different attitude and perspective. (See: Appendix 2.)

The second exercise uses the Roman Numerals IX with the instruction to make them into a numeric 6. This is achieved when the participant places an "S" in front to spell six. This example of a changed perspective jumpstarts the thought processes with a different attitude and point of view.

A third exercise makes use of a circle with a straight-line diameter. The challenge is to divide the circle into eight parts using two lines. It can be done using two curving lines that cross twice with both lines going through the center to create eight parts. This arouses sensitivity to possibilities the participant had thought impossible.

The final exercise is a mathematical symbol of nine dots, three to the row, with instruction to connect all dots on the three rows without lifting the pencil from the paper. The solution is to go outside the lines or the box. This tasks moves participants outside the commonplace. Insight is stimulated to recognize and understand the significance of a different perspective in looking for a job or developing a career in keeping with the individual's unique possibilities instead of the ordinary. See: Appendix 3.)

A short break at this point relieves tension and allows opportunity for community building. Breaks for the construction of community are of great importance. This affords the group dynamics necessary for participants to open themselves to perceiving with a new attitude and insight for considering new possibilities.

Some broken people are afraid of testing; others are skeptical. It is important to demonstrate early in the week how thinking occurs and which side of the brain different individuals use. Using left-right brain instruments can determine how each operates. Many tools are available to do this. The real value is that it assists people to realize the capacity to think for themselves and to understand why they think the way they do.

The morning's exercises help individuals understand that their interests, values and skills come from the predominant side of their brain and this is the source from which they operate. It indicates personal interest areas where the person is most creative and most likely to succeed on the job or in a career. Regardless of which side prevails, there is no difference in measuring intelligence or success possibilities. It does illustrate the areas where participants are best equipped to be successful. Some people operate equally out of both sides of the brain. The importance is the individual understanding how they operate so it can be used as a tool for choosing a job or appropriate career path. Once individuals discover their major strengths and how their thinking operates, they approach learning, work and career paths with a new sense of joy, adventure and determination.

Lunchtime brings opportunity to break bread together. Kitchen staff and volunteers prepare and serve the meal cafeteria style in a family atmosphere. This is an important factor in continuing the formation of a new community. Individuals are not permitted to leave the facility to eat or have recreation elsewhere during the lunch period. A staff member blesses the food and continues with a luncheon presentation. Using this time as an extension of the process, the How It Works chart is employed to discuss further the program's philosophy and concept along with conversation about possibilities through the agency. This talk includes the essential message of how anyone can solve any problem for which he or she will accept responsibility.

When the group assembles after lunch testing and evaluation is introduced for job search and career planning. Participants begin to gain a new sense of self-respect, worth and dignity. They grasp their ability for independent thinking, understand how they think, and are ready to discover their interests, values and skills through the testing and evaluation instruments. There is active interest in identifying the best areas in which to pursue a job or develop a career.

The door opens and, as possibilities come to light, individuals understand they no longer need to see themselves as second-class citizens with a victim image, but as people with gifts, talents, grace, possibilities and dignity to be developed. They begin to see they can make it on their own. These individuals are on the way to becoming their own promoters within their immediate sphere and beyond. The evening remains for participants to think about their greater vista of possibilities and potential.

At this stage it is important not to overload participants with information or requirements. The rule continues to be, "Keep it simple." An affirmative word about the possibilities of each, what they have discovered, and the possibilities of the combined group is enough. They are encouraged to return, to help each other and tell others about the program with the hope that they have family, friends and neighbors who could benefit from the experience.

WEDNESDAY: This is goal setting day. An overnight transformation has taken place. It is noticeable as participants arrive with smiles and sparkling eyes, stand straight and walk taller. They know they have been accepted with unconditional love and have discovered new possibilities. Greetings are filled with hope and an energetic anticipation for the day and their future. Individuals have come to a place of confidence and know they are "somebody." A new sense of dignity is being reclaimed. Staff, volunteers, and former graduates observe the new sense of self and attitude with pleasure. The air is full of joyful excitement. Such an alteration attests to THE BETTER WAY philosophy and concept working for everyone who stays the course. Attendees are ready to set goals for a future they believe in.

The agenda begins with an introduction of a cluster of career possibilities for each to select the career possibility he or she would like, can do and will do. Activity moves to the Dictionary of Occupational Titles for personal goal setting. Focus is on immediate, short and long-term goals. An incremental progression begins with thinking through the immediate to plan for what needs doing in the "today" timeframe, what needs to be done in the near future to prepare for long-term goals, and what needs accomplishing to achieve long-term goals so participants can enable themselves to live by their dreams.

Responsibility continues to remain on the individual. Acceptance, discovering possibilities and working on goals are the agents that crumbles the victim attitude. As new understanding of possibilities are known, individuals are eager to learn and become productive. The entitlement attitude begins to fade.

Participants are asked to assemble their own file folders for staff and office use. The folders include their registration form, test scores, identification forms for employment, and personal goals. This collection of material symbolizes the unique identity of each and emphasizes their new beginning. It is an empowering experience to bring a personal folder together in a way that builds confidence in one's possibilities.

Wednesday's major experience is two presentations by professionals from the community. These volunteers share experiences and insight gained from facing life's challenges and responsibilities. Participants are impressed by the amount of time these business people willingly contribute from a busy day to share with struggling people.

The morning presentation covers the image and attire required for employment, self-esteem and personal development. The speaker self-discloses about struggles they have personally faced. Attendees learn that successful people have their own struggles and challenges and see the commitment and effort it takes to overcome. They hear again that everyone has personal struggles and see the action and effort needed to overcome with a positive attitude. A question and answer period allows for discussing problems of the past and how to overcome them in a job search. Strong emphasis is placed on the necessity for a complete job application, the importance of a good resume for self-confidence, and meeting the prospective employer confidently.

A second presentation is given during lunch. The speaker touches on many of the same subjects as the morning volunteer, but places more emphasis on an employer's expectations and how to keep a job. Lunch concludes with a question and answer period. The give and take discussion is valuable for participants to have experience speaking out, conquering fear, building confidence, and understanding the necessity for persistence.

After lunch the group tours the facility to bring into focus the agency's possibilities for the participant, taking into account that "One See is better than a thousand Says." It begins with the chapel to discuss the Graduation Service where each participant will give a presentation. The chapel's location in the center of the building is called to attention as symbolic of the pivot around which the program's concept turns.

The tour proceeds to offices used for practice job interviews that are taped for the group to view and discuss. THE BETTER WAY employees are met in their workplaces. Each briefly explains their job responsibilities and how these tasks fit into the overall picture. The next stop is the Continuing Education Division where opportunities for those who need the division's services are mentioned. The short-term training area is visited with an explanation of available resources. The last stop is the Temporary Employment Component where the importance of moving into productivity as soon as possible is underscored.

This afternoon walk-through significantly increases understanding of the path to accomplish the personal goals for self-development and success. No matter how someone thinks his or her life will be, there is a greater purpose. The tour's most important value is the opportunity for participants to gain a sense of being part of something greater than themselves. This is difficult to measure, but is integral to meeting challenges and taking on new responsibilities for a more fulfilling life.

THURSDAY: This is the scheduled time for the group to prepare for mock job interviews which are conducted on Friday. The "A" to "Z" of job search is discussed. Weight is placed on researching the industry and company for which they expect to work before going for interview, expressing appreciation for the interview opportunity, and expressing hope for the job. The import of and necessity for a fully completed job application is brought out along with effective job interview techniques.

Participants learn that the job application tests writing expertise, and job interviews test oral communication skills. Preparation for the next day's practice interview is accomplished through role-playing with fellow workshop participants, each playing the part of the interviewer and the applicant. Participants learn to handle informational and judgment questions to overcome fears of the unknown. The morning hours are used to keep people on a course to personal fulfillment and encourage openness to new experiences while staying true to themselves.

The volunteer luncheon speaker shares the importance of, the necessity for, and an understanding about the struggle for spiritual development. Volunteers have different faith backgrounds and a clear understanding that this is a sharing time, not a time for religious indoctrination, coercion, or to extract a personal commitment to a particular faith. Speakers must be comfortable and secure in their own faith to share the ways faith has helped in their lives. Referral is made to the tools and materials available for spiritual development such as meditation, prayer, worship, individual and group study and sharing groups. Information is consistent with the freedom to make a personal commitment according to the participant's choice and religious heritage.

After lunch, taped interviews by former graduates are viewed and discussed and/or a volunteer graduate shares how the process was beneficial for them. Afterward, the Employment Coordinator meets with the group and maps out obstacles to overcome for employment, including the importance of reporting to work on time and dependability, first impressions, personal hygiene, appropriate job attire, childcare, transportation, and overall grooming.

Participants are urged to know their numbers: social security, driver's license, and personal or message phone numbers. They are reminded that proper identification forms for employment and their resume are essential. Letters of recommendation are also mentioned as helpful for most job opportunities.

Time is spent on current job possibilities in the community, the use of temporary employment agencies as a way to move into full-time employment, and the possibility of work in THE BETTER WAY Temporary Employment Component. Appointments are made for placement assistance in the week after graduation.

Thursday's closing class item is the viewing of motivational films that emphasize positive attitude, personal determination and the will to succeed. A film library should be available from which to choose according to the group. This is the prime for Friday's mock interview. Some are still anxious about the process and requirement but most return for the interviews and to graduate.

FRIDAY: The last day of the workshop is both significant and powerful for participants and staff. The class approaches it with anxiety and trepidation because of the videoed job interview they must complete that is critiqued by staff, volunteers and participants. They also know they are required to deliver a presentation of their choosing in the Graduation Service.

Although participants have been grilled and rehearsed for the big moment of job interviews, it is still a new experience. There is abundant nervousness and a few even tremble. Some may have used video cameras before but critiquing raises fears of embarrassment and failure. In the seventeen years I was involved not one participant died of cardiac arrest from this requirement though some were sure they would. The volunteers and staff must be sensitive to these fears and make a great effort to bolster confidence and provide reassurance.

The interview offices are located for privacy to help alleviate embarrassment and the fear of making mistakes they are sure will be made. All participants watch on closed circuit television. This viewing is chiefly valuable to ease fear and help observers see ideas for improving their own interviews. After the interview, each breathes a sigh of relief and rejoins the group for the coming discussion of how it had worked.

Again, attendee diversity enriches contributions during a post-discussion of the interviews. Participants have learned there is no one-size-fits-all answer to any question. There are choices and circumstances of risk and consequences but, even so, they have survived with success! The atmosphere is light-hearted but serious. There is encouragement as participants, volunteers and staff acknowledge positive attributes and make suggestions for improvement where appropriate. Most amazing is the great sensitivity and respect members give as they help one another. This is radically different from their treatment of each other the first day.

After a break, there is a planned Toastmasters program for lunch. The strength of this session is the additional emphasis placed on participants learning to look people in the eye, and the ability to think and speak on their feet. This works incredibly well after a week's preparation for people who initially entered the workshop with little or no self-confidence. There is some bluster, but it is to hide fear.

The Graduation Service is known as the Celebration of Achievement and is scheduled punctually at 1:30 p.m. in the chapel. Punctuality is important for participants, attending guests and visitors. The portrayal of symbols in the service speaks forcefully as individuals are celebrated in finding a new path for life. Every individual has an inner sense that God makes Himself known to each as individuals. Symbols in the chapel enhance this understanding.

Although the symbols used are from a particular faith heritage, all faith heritages have their symbols and this is acknowledged and respected. While they hold different meanings for people, the combined symbols are designed to have a transforming power for the individual without indoctrination or coercion.

This is a time to take time. The Graduation Service begins with the workshop instructor reviewing the week and lifting up the change of attitude and the newly discovered possibilities of those who have stayed the course. A participant that has shown leadership ability (whether volunteering or drafted) is introduced as the Master of Ceremonies. This person makes the first presentation and then introduces each participant, in turn, to the podium for his or her presentation. Sometimes it is done with a challenge to step up to the plate in bold fashion; other times it is a quiet call to the next in line. The introduction always carries the responsibility to continue the effort until every class member has been respectfully recognized, heard and celebrated.

As participants give their presentation there is only one requirement: to stand in front and face the group because of the symbolic power involved in standing independently on their own feet. Individuals may choose their means of expression in whatever way they feel is appropriate. Some speak; others sing, recite or read poetry or scripture, or say a prayer. After one scant week there is an extraordinary, open outpouring of gratitude for acceptance, discovering new possibilities and establishing goals for a new start in life. As individuals complete their presentations and each begins the walk back to their seat, the music of Pomp and Circumstance is played. Smiles abound on every face. For some it is their very first graduation. There is a real and moving sense of joy and celebration for all present.

THE BETTER WAY Director leads the remainder of the service. He or she points out the chapel's central location in the building as the hub and pivot for the program and calls attention to a large stained glass window behind the podium. This window depicts a woman brought before Jesus, accused of being caught in the act of adultery. Translating into a contemporary setting embellishes the story and the question is asked, "What about the man? It takes two to commit adultery" and "Who in contemporary society has earned the right to stone another human being?"

On a table to the left of the podium rests an open Bible with a candle on either side. The symbolism of the open Bible is used to issue an invitation to all for a new life in God regardless of personal heritage. The two candles symbolize the two natures of God, as God and man, and when the candles are lit, the flames symbolize the light of God for everyone and for the entire world. Each participant is given an invitation to light the candles on the altar to symbolize lighting anew the candle of their lives with the hope of a new beginning. As a rule, guests and visitors participate in this symbolic act.

Next in order is rising and singing the hymn, "New Tomorrows," written by Dr. Jene Miller and sung to the tune of the "Hymn of Joy." Together, an anonymous Responsive Reading, "I am God's Child", is read aloud. The Director's sermon follows to urge participants to face any challenge and meet any difficulty with determination and hope, believing there is a greater purpose for their lives, and for the importance of being involved in something greater than themselves. This is done with many stories to demonstrate from the experiences of life.

Participants are called by name and come forward individually to be presented with their Certificate of Achievement as full-fledged graduates. The graduate's name, their date of graduation, and the signatures of the Job Readiness Workshop instructor and the Director are on the certificate. As each receives a certificate, they are congratulated and given a hug when appropriate. There is warm and earnest applause for each graduate for it is a time of significant achievement and happiness.

Each graduate is offered a clean sheet of paper that symbolizes a new past, a new present, and a new future. Graduates are told the sheet is a blank slate, clean each and every day, for them to write on it what they may. A sheet that represents choice-to call them to the resolve to make their dreams a reality, to write the things that enable them to meet the challenges and opportunities of life, or to return to the things that brought them to the place of needing a new beginning.

Emphasis is placed on writing what moves them toward their goals and destiny to become what they believe is God's purpose for their live. The choice to receive the clean sheet of paper is the individual's, and most accept one, or ask for one later. It is cherished along with the Certificate of Achievement. There are occasions when guests or visitors request a clean sheet of paper for their own symbolic act of a new beginning.

The final song, "My Time", written by Russ Brown and sung to Woody Guthrie's tune, "This Land is My Land", is sang with gusto. Emphasis is on the words "The time is right for me to be!" with a rousing "Ohhhhh Yeahhhhhh!" at the end.

With the completion of the Graduation Service, graduates are given an opportunity to receive a candle to light from the candles on the altar to symbolize that God goes with them on the journey of life. Afterward, they take their candles to the reception area where staff or volunteers have prepared a reception with cake and refreshments. This signifies an especially poignant moment for those at their first graduation and the commitment of all for a new beginning. The occasion also provides time for the staff to congratulate individuals on their achievements, success and new beginning. The graduates are encouraged to return the next Monday to complete resumes, start their job search, work in the Temporary Employment Component, enroll in the Short-Term Training for employment possibilities, take other actions either in the Continuing Education Division for Self Development, or enroll in long-term through other institutions.

Photographs are taken of each graduate with a copy for the graduate and a copy for the office files. The office copy identifies the graduate. When he or she obtains a job, the photo is placed on the bulletin board along with photos of other graduates employed that year. This recognition brings friends and prospects by to see what participants have accomplished and remains as a proud symbol of new possibilities.

Friday ends as a culmination of worthwhile effort for both graduates and staff. The staff feels they have been involved in something greater than themselves. There is a sense of privilege to have participated in the miracle of changed lives, and a strong sense of partnership in helping people help themselves through THE BETTER WAY.