Teens and young adults who are pregnant or parenting can get help with driver education, employability skills training, parenting classes, job search assistance, and case management through the Bridges to Employing Youth Program offered by Project Self-Sufficiency. While working towards parenting and employment goals, enrolled students can receive 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, such as job skills training and parenting classes.  Program participants are poised to move on to higher education, unsubsidized employment, occupational training, apprenticeships, or military service.  The Bridges to Employment program operates Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. – noon, at the agency’s Newton campus.

“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.  “In addition, driver education classes allow 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.

Kade Sybesma credits the Bridges program with boosting his parenting skills. “I learned about child development, proper parenting skills, expectations for my child, and stress management for parents, in addition to linking me to extra services to help me with it all. It’s the best resource and an extra source of support if you are a parent.  Because of PSS, I have become a better, more understanding parent.”

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.