Opening Doors to Independence:
Introducing Our SkillsUp
Pre-Vocational Training Program
At Our House, we believe that every person deserves the opportunity to pursue meaningful work and achieve financial independence and we’re thrilled to announce the launch of our newest initiative: the SkillsUp Pre-Vocational Training Program. This is a step forward in our mission to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to reach their full potential.
Bridging the Gap Between Dreams and Opportunity
While many individuals in our community possess the determination and passion to secure meaningful employment, they often face a significant barrier: limited access to the foundational workplace skills that employers value most. The SkillsUp program was created specifically to address this challenge, providing comprehensive pre-vocational training in a supportive, structured environment where participants can build confidence alongside competence.
Located in Woodbridge, New Jersey, our program serves 20 participants at a time, offering intensive training designed to prepare them for success in today’s competitive job market. We focus on high-demand sectors including retail, food services, office administration and customer service. These industries offer genuine pathways to career growth and stability.
Building Real-World Skills for Real-World Success
The SkillsUp curriculum goes far beyond basic job readiness. Our participants master essential professional skills through hands-on training and real-world application. They learn to navigate industry-standard punch-in/out systems, develop computer proficiency and master effective email communication and telephone etiquette. These technical competencies form the foundation for workplace success, but we don’t stop there.
Equally important are the interpersonal skills that create positive workplace relationships. Our participants develop the communication abilities needed to build strong connections with colleagues and supervisors, deliver excellent customer service and navigate professional workplace dynamics with confidence. These soft skills often make the difference between getting hired and building a lasting career.
Meeting Each Person Where They Are
What sets SkillsUp apart is our unwavering commitment to individualized training. We recognize that each participant brings unique strengths, faces distinct challenges and harbors personal professional goals. That’s why every participant’s journey begins with a comprehensive skills assessment at enrollment, establishing a baseline for their personalized development plan.
This individualized approach ensures that training is specifically tailored to each person’s needs, building upon existing capabilities while addressing areas for growth. By meeting participants where they are and creating customized pathways forward, we maximize the potential for successful transition to competitive employment.
“This new initiative represents Our House’s commitment to unlocking potential and creating pathways to more financial independence for our served individuals,” explains Michele DelCorsano, President & CEO. “By providing personalized, comprehensive workplace training, we’re not just preparing our participants for employment—we’re empowering them to write their own success stories.”
The SkillsUp program stands as a testament to what becomes possible when we invest in human potential and provide the tools necessary for success. As we look toward the future, we’re excited to witness the transformative impact this program will have on the lives of participants and the broader community.
Together, we’re not just building skills—we’re building futures, one success story at a time.