Jewish Vocational Service - Refugee Services

REFUGEE PLACEMENT PROGRAM
Services to refugees from the Former Soviet Union feature English-as-a Second Language (ESL), career counseling, resume writing, interviewing and Internet job search in preparation for entering the job market. Scholarship funds are available for short-term training to upgrade skills. Counselors are bi-lingual. For information on placement services and eligibility call (847) 568-5150 or e-mail jvsrefugee@jvschicago.org.

ENGLISH-AS-A-SECOND LANGUAGE PROGRAM
The JVS/ESL program was established to help foreign born clients learn conversational English and to communicate in the American world of work. Truman College provides highly skilled adult educators through City Colleges’ Adult Skills Learning Program. The focus of the classes is on vocational communication; oral and listening skills are primary. Classes are non-credit and without charge.

Entering students are tested for their English language level and placed in an appropriate class. Classes meet Monday through Thursday from 9:00a.m. - 1:00p.m. Students who work during the day are encouraged to attend Monday through Thursday evenings, 5:30p.m. - 8:30p.m. The JVS Volunteer Program supplements the ESL program, providing students with additional out-of-classroom practice, specialized vocational language and acculturation activities.

The JVS Rogers Park Computer Technology Center provides free basic computer skills training and Internet access for the adult community in Rogers Park.

For further information call (773) 743-5638 or e-mail jvselt@jvschicago.org.

MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
JVS helps all refugees and asylees who want to start or strengthen their own full-time, part-time, home-based or storefront business.

Access to Loan Money for Small Businesses. Micro-loans up to $15,000 are available to qualified individuals. The loans are repaid in 36 monthly installments. Interest rates vary based upon the amount borrowed.

Individual Technical Assistance. Applicants receive individual help with business plans and financial projections. Assistance is also available for marketing, pricing, licenses, business permits, product development and market research.

For information on micro-loans, technical assistance or training/workshops, call (312) 673-3429 or e-mail sbdcdumancenter@jvschicago.org.