The redesigned site is also a bit leaner, offering a simplified navigation structure that focuses on the most useful content. HIRED clients and employers will continue to have easy access to HIRED’s proprietary jobs database, Job Link.

The article suggests that HIRED’s youth programming is a solid choice for philanthropists looking to invest in employment and training services for young people.  The full article is available at MNSights»

The rankings were determined by surveying 100 local experts; including foundation staff, researchers and faculty, and senior staff from area nonprofit organizations.  More information about the list of most effective organizations can be found at the Philanthropedia website»:

In her interview with WCCO’s Jamie Yuccas, Michelle commented that she was starting a new job at a physician’s office the next week, and that the assistance she received at HIRED helped her throughout her job search.  Dee Everett is Michelle’s employment counselor.

Grant provided Michelle with updated hair and makeup tips, and helped her select a new outfit that she can wear to her new job.  The story can be viewed at the WCCO website»

Deb is a senior employment counselor assisting dislocated workers at HIRED’s office at the Hennepin North WorkForce Center in Brooklyn Park.  She was recognized for her ability to assist job seekers with creating highly effective resumes, and effectively guiding them through the job search process.  She was also recognized for assisting her colleagues at HIRED and the WorkForce Center, and for using her expertise to benefit clients throughout HIRED.  Deb has served as an HR director and consultant— experience she leverages in helping HIRED clients secure employment.

The story also highlights the “Flight of Fancy” fashion show produced by WINGs, a giving circle of the Greater Twin Cities United Way.  Last year, WINGs made a $50,000 grant to the Young Parents Program, and several WINGs members serve as volunteers in the program.

Erick Ajax, an employer who has hired 12 M-Powered graduates, was interviewed as part of the report.  M-Powered is a collaborative job training partnership involving numerous area employers, Hennepin Technical College, HIRED and providers of Adult Basic Education services.  The full story can be viewed at the KARE 11 website»

Through the program, trainees learn how sell solar systems to residential and commercial clients., and some participants also learn how to install the systems.  HIRED staff recruit eligible participants, offer support services and provide job search skills training, job search assistance and job retention services.  The full article can be viewed at the Pioneer Press website»:

“In the Minneapolis area on Tuesday, I had an opportunity to witness what can be accomplished when community colleges, workforce development agencies, local employers and non-profit organizations work together – with a little help from the Labor Department.  In 2010, Hennepin Technical College received a $2.6 million grant from DOL that allowed them to partner with local non-profits like HIRED and employers like E.J. Ajax Metal Stamping to design certificate programs in advanced and precision manufacturing, plastics, welding and for the health care sector.”

HIRED staff had the opportunity to visit with Deputy Secretary Harris during a lunch reception, and as he toured Hennepin Technical College’s manufacturing training facilities.

Rehm completed green energy training at HIRED and after eight months of unemployment will soon be starting a job with the State of Minnesota, managing an energy savings project. Renewable energy is a growing field, as is medical device manufacturing. Construction jobs were also up in October for the first time since spring 2006.

Sechovec told Channel 12 that the drop in unemployment is somewhat deceiving, pointing out that many people are overqualified for their jobs or are working just part time. “People are taking whatever they can get, and they need to do that. That’s what’s bringing the unemployment number down, but in a few months that will shoot up again,” Sechovec said.

View the video or read the story, “Local snapshot on unemployment offers glimmer of hope,” at http://www.twelve.tv/news/newsitem.aspx?newsid=405&newsitemid=17848.