Driver education classes will continue to be offered to pregnant and parenting young adults ages 16 – 24 through Project Self-Sufficiency’s Bridges to Employing Youth Program.  Enrolled students can receive the behind-the-wheel coursework, obtain a learner’s permit, and prepare for the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Knowledge Test while accessing the other supportive services offered by the agency.  The Bridges to Employing Youth initiative assists pregnant and parenting young adults with a range of comprehensive supportive services while they work towards parenting and employment goals.  Program participants are poised to move on to higher education, unsubsidized employment, occupational training, apprenticeships, or military service.  The Bridges to Employment program operates Monday – Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the agency’s Newton campus.  In addition to driver education, coursework includes employability skills training, parenting classes, job search assistance, and case management. 

“The Bridges to Employing Youth program offers a unique combination of educational, employment and case management services which can transform the future of our students and their families,” explains Deborah Berry-Toon, Project Self-Sufficiency’s Executive Director.  “The inclusion of driver education classes allows students to work towards their driver’s license and access employment opportunities that are beyond the reach of the limited public transportation available in Sussex County.”

Eligibility for the Bridges to Employing Youth program is based on age, pregnancy or parenting status, and employment needs.  Academic services are provided to those who have already achieved a high school diploma but require basic skills remediation.  Those who do not need educational services focus on employability and parenting skills.

The Bridges to Employing Youth Program is funded by the New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development.  Those who are interested in learning more about the Bridges to Employing Youth initiative at Project Self-Sufficiency are encouraged to register online at www.projectselfsufficiency.org or call 973-940-3500.