Bronx, NY
A student-centric approach strengthens program relationships.
The Allied Health Career Pipeline Program at Hostos Community College provides services to low-income residents of the South Bronx. This program issues comprehensive healthcare occupational training, and support services, with the end goal of securing job placement.
The emergence of COVID-19 forced the Pipeline Program to adapt quickly and transition healthcare training programs, such as certified nursing assistant, from in-person to remote learning. They started providing emergency loaner laptops to students so they could complete their training at home. In addition, staff proactively supported and engaged participants as they adapted to the ’new normal’ of the pandemic.
Case managers emotionally supported participants through virtual consultations where they discussed personal stressors, as well as academic, employment, and personal goals. They also talked about issues impacting the Black community. They communicated regularly with students; providing pandemic-related information through weekly phone calls and Zoom meetings. Topics covered included how to cope with unprecedented change and how to file for unemployment. The constant communication between case managers and program participants strengthened relationships and encouraged most students to complete the program despite setbacks.
The Pipeline Program surveyed their students to better evaluate their needs. They found most students work in healthcare or still desire a healthcare employment regardless of the pandemic. Also, most participants plan to further their education and express interest in financial resources.
Based on the responses, case managers compiled a comprehensive resource list of public benefits, local soup kitchens and food pantries, domestic violence resources, internet and bill service accommodations, and mental health resources.
Armed with this information, case managers continuously reached out to program participants to ensure their needs were being met. Due to the Pipeline Program’s proactive communication, students are empowered to succeed and confident in finding employment.
This Promising Practice was self-identified by the grantee and information contained in this document was provided by the grantee.