Founded in 1884 as a resource for Eastern European immigrants, Jewish Vocational Service (JVS) is a dynamic agency delivering a comprehensive selection of non-sectarian employment and training services. JVS helps a diverse population explore career choices and find jobs in a rapidly changing marketplace. People who benefit include executives and middle managers, entrepreneurs, women returning to the workforce, young professionals, students seeking college counseling or scholarship assistance, refugees, persons with disabilities and the economically disadvantaged. JVS helps more than 10,000 people annually match their skills to professional and business opportunities through a network of Chicago area employers.
What sets an organization apart? What qualities and services enable an organization to evolve and prosper through economic and social change, technological advancement and globalization? If the answer is personalized service, sensitivity to individual career aspirations, and ongoing support and education to build self-esteem and competency, welcome to Chicago's JVS. Our enduring goal is to give people the tools to be self-sufficient and competitive, enabling them to realize the American dream.

Calendar Highlights
March 3
Trying to Navigate Your Taxes
March 8
Interviewing Basics and Beyond
March 10
Franchising: is it Right For You
March 15
Career Support Group
March 16
Ask a Career Expert
March 23
Jump-Start Your Job Search
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In the News
Project Connect
JVS, Jewish Child and Family Services and CJE SeniorLife have joined forces through Project Connect to help financially struggling clients through the contracting economy. Project Connect is being piloted in Chicago and Skokie with generous grants from the Polk Bros. Foundation and the Jewish Federation’s J-HELP Initiative. JVS will help low-income individuals establish secured Credit Builder loans with North Shore Community Bank & Trust Company to allow them to restore or build their credit scores. Clients will also be encouraged to attend Credit Builder Financial Education Seminars to learn sound spending and savings practices. For more information call (312) 673-3440. For a schedule of seminars, click on Calendar/Special Events.
The Citi Foundation Business Plan Contest
The Illinois Small Business Administration/Duman Microenterprise Center announces the launch of The Citi Foundation Business Plan Contest, starting June 1, 2009. A business plan should be a description of a proposed or already existing business. Contestants should put their ideas on paper to find out if there is a viable business and compete to win prizes. To be eligible participants must attend at least one of the following courses/workshops by February 1, 2010: "How to Write a Business Plan," Understanding Your Small Business Report Card" or "Small Business Boot Camp." For contest information call (312) 673-3429 or click on Microenterprise Services.
Senior Aides Program Expands to Du Page County
The Senior Aides program, a Title V program administered by Jewish Vocational Service, is expanding its services to Du Page County. The program serves low income seniors (age 55 and older) who are paid minimum wage while they gain marketable skills working part-time at local non-profit and public organizations. Participants help community agencies extend their reach and capabilities, while developing their own skills, self-confidence and a restored sense of self-worth. For information call (630) 261-9324.