grants, training, information, and supports for success in today’s economy

• Accommodations to participate in RochesterWorks services.
• Information on how to effectively use RochesterWorks services including participation in workshops, job search assistance, free access to computers, and participation in recruiting events to connect you to employers.
• Connecting you to disability resources in the community to assist you with your goal of employment.
• Understanding disclosure of a disability and how it relates to employment.
• Understanding how working can affect your SSDI/SSI or Medicaid/Medicare.

RochesterWorks is an Employment Network under Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program. The DRC can assist in resume development, interview preparation, and job search assistance through the Ticket to Work Program. Learn more about the Ticket to Work Program here.

Get in touch with the DRC covering Monroe County, Lindsay Murphy, at 585-258-3500 x3513 or lmurphy@rochesterworks.org

A program that has received statewide recognition and been replicated by other regions in New York, RochesterWorks Enhanced Recovery Services (ERS) Program has proven effective in responding to multiple critical community needs. ERS has worked to address the opioid health crisis in Monroe County by helping to facilitate a pathway to economic independence for those in substance abuse disorder (SUD) recovery and/or with mental health challenges. Furthermore, it has helped address the critical shortage in professional staff certified to treat individuals in the fields of recovery, mental health, and prevention.  The program has served as a model for the rest of the state and was awarded the 2022 Workforce Program Award by the NY Association of Training and Employment Professionals (NYATEP).

Since July 2019, the ERS program has assisted participants to achieve professional credentials and/or employment in their desired field.  Depending on the training and career path chosen, participants in the program work with the ERS staff for a minimum of nine months to up to two years. 

Services Provided

• Career assessment, guidance, and counseling, targeted job fairs, career panel.
• Resume/cover letter writing, self-marketing, interviewing skills and job search strategy.
• Training toward professional certifications to competitively enter/remain in the field.
• Paid internships after training.
• Train the trainer engagements with community partners.

Community Partners

The ERS program relies on the referrals, support, and collaboration of the many community partners dedicated to fields of recovery, mental health, and prevention in our community. These include:

• Center of Community Alternatives: The CORE Center
• Compeer Rochester
• Delphi Rise
• DePaul
• East House
• Huther Doyle
• Monroe County Department of Public Health
• Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
• National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence – Rochester Area (NCADD-RA)
• Recovery Coach University
• Recovery Houses of Rochester
• Rochester Regional Health
• ROCovery Fitness
• Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center
• University of Rochester Medical Center
• Venture Forthe
• Veterans Outreach Center
• Westfall Associates

Acceptance into the ERS Program is done by referral from one of our various community partners.  Participants must be in sustained recovery with good self-care techniques for a minimum of 9 months without a recurrence and must be currently working with a substance use/mental health counselor/therapist.

Wondering how you can get started with Enhanced Recovery Services?

• Have your counselor, therapist or health care provider send an email to Jill Nocera, jnocera@rochesterworks.org or to Clark Rodman, crodman@rochesterworks.org to receive details about the referral process.

Coursera is an online platform that gives unemployed and underemployed New Yorkers access to over 4,000 programs across high-growth industries. With Coursera, you can build skills in various fields, including data science, business, and technology. Many of these programs are pathways to industry-recognized credentials and can help elevate your career.

What is a Coursera course like?
Coursera courses have been developed by well-known colleges, universities, and training providers. Courses include videos, readings, and quizzes and can be completed at your own pace. Most available courses have an average completion time of between 10 and 30 hours.

What equipment do I need?
You will need a computing device with a broadband Internet connection. Coursera courses can be completed on most newer mobile devices.

Which Coursera courses should I take?
RochesterWorks has identified a number of recommended course collections. Your RochesterWorks representative will help you decide which course collection or individual courses are best for you.

How much will this cost me?
Through this program, Coursera enrollment is being offered free of charge. 

What if I need help?
We want to help you successfully complete your chosen courses, so a RochesterWorks staff member will monitor your progress. If you need help at any time, you may e-mail us at coursera@rochesterworks.org.

After an initial conversation with us, RochesterWorks staff can arrange for you to receive an e-mail inviting you to join Coursera. You can start with your RochesterWorks advisor or e-mail coursera@rochesterworks.org.

To learn more about Coursera and how to obtain a voucher through RochesterWorks for free access to Coursera’s Online Trainings, please view our e-learning information series.

To get an idea of what courses are available through Coursera, check out our Recommended Coursera Course Collections. You can also view the full Coursera Catalog. 

To learn more about Coursera and how to obtain a voucher through RochesterWorks for free access to Coursera’s Online Trainings, please view our e-learning information series.

The Ticket to Work Program is a Social Security Work Incentive program that allows employment service providers ("Employment Networks") to assist participants with disabilities in securing meaningful employment without risk to the participant's benefits.

With the Ticket Program and other Social Security Work Incentives, you may be able to keep your benefits while exploring employment opportunities and gaining work experience. Medicaid or Medicare will often continue to pay benefits throughout your transition to employment. If you cannot continue working due to your disability, there are protections to assist you.

Upon assigning your ticket to RochesterWorks, a trained Career Advisor will be able to offer you intensive, one-on-one support and assistance. Support is provided for job search and application, resume writing, interview preparation and practice, accommodation requests, and general career guidance.

Watch the Ticket to Work Introduction Video

Watch the Ticket to Work Introduction in ASL

Visit the Ticket to Work Program Information Page

Get in touch with the Disability Resource Coordinator covering Monroe County, Lindsay Murphy, at 585-258-3500 x3513 or lmurphy@rochesterworks.org for more information about how to get started.

If you want to learn more about services for individuals with disabilities (and find your local DRC if you are located outside of Monroe County), click here Career Services for Persons with Disabilities | Department of Labor (ny.gov).

ACCES-VR: Rochester District Office | Adult Career and Continuing Education Services | NYS Education Department

Job Accommodation Network: www.askjan.org

Your Dream, Your Team: https://www.cdoworkforce.org/toolkit

Employment Equity Coalition: https://employmentequity.org/

Information on Monroe County 55a program for hiring people with disabilities:

55a Fact Sheet.pdf (monroecounty.gov)

55b/c program for individuals with disabilities and veterans: NY state jobs

55b/c Recruitment Resources Center (ny.gov)

Federal employment:

USAJOBS Help Center | Individuals with disabilities

• Attendance Sheet
• Demand Occupation List for Training
• Federal Grants, Loans, Savings Programs, and Tax Credits 
• Financial Resources While in Classroom Training
• Income Guidelines
• Job Search Record Sheet
• Sample Plan of Study Form
• Youth Programs

Registration Form
RochesterWorks uses this form to register new customers. To comply with the federal reporting requirements for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs, we must collect personal information about our customers. Information you provide is used only for purposes directly related to WIOA, and all New York State Career Centers follow federal guidelines on handling and protecting your information.

(English) Career Center Registration Form | PDF

(Español) Formulario de registro para clientes del Centro Vocacional | PDF

Customer Eligibility Survey
The information on this form helps us determine whether you qualify for any other Workforce System programs or services. All information you provide to us is kept confidential and only be used to determine further program eligibility, reporting requirements under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, and affirmative action policies. This form is provided to serve customers better, but it is entirely voluntary.

(English) Career Center Supplemental Questionnaire: Additional Information & Program Eligibility | PDF

(Español) Cuestionario complementario del Centro Vocacional Información adicional y elegibilidad para el programa | PDF

An initial skills assessment is the first step to using RochesterWorks' free services. During this session, a Career Services Advisor will help you register in our system, issue an NYID number, and open access to all of RochesterWorks' resources. Information about what to expect at your appointment is listed below. Visit here to make you appointment online or call us a 585-258-3500 set one up. 

First, the Career Services Advisor will review your customer intake forms:

• Registration 
• Customer Eligibility Survey
• Verify date of birth – a state-issued ID or benefits card is required
• Offer a voter registration form
• Verify selective service registration, if applicable
• Discuss current employment status and review work history and education
   

Next, you'll discuss your current work search and career activities:

• How you've been searching for work
• Your skills and experience
• Your resume
• Your goals, priorities, and challenges
   

Then, you'll be guided through a variety of resources and action items:

• Job search resources available through RochesterWorks and the NY Department of Labor
• Career exploration resources
• Career interest assessments, if applicable
• Recommendations for RochesterWorks workshops based on your needs and goals

Selective Service Status Information Request
Individuals whose status cannot be verified online must use this form to verify their registration with the Selective Service System. The law requires that men register with Selective Service within 30 days of their 18th birthday. Late registrations are accepted until a man turns 26.

Selective Service Status Information Request Letter | PDF

Print, fill out and sign the request and mail it to:
ATTN: SIL
PO Box 94638
Palatine, IL 60094-4638

5 Steps sessions run monthly as long as a minimum of six participants have committed to attend the program. 

1st: Sign up for a 5 Steps Info Session. The Info Session is a mandatory pre-requisite for the program and you'll need to take it before you can access the application.

Take the Info Session online or sign up for an in-person session

2nd: At the end of your info session, you’ll receive a link to the 5 Steps Application. When you fill out your application, ensure that the email address you provide is one that you check regularly. This will be the email address used to send you your acceptance and course materials throughout the program.

1. Click the link for the month you’d like to apply for
2. Select “Register”
3. Select “Checkout"
4. Fill out your information
5. Select "Submit"

3rd: Check your e-mail! All applications are reviewed together on the Monday after the application deadline. 

Local Resources from 211Lifeline.org
Bankruptcy Assistance  |  Credit Counseling  |  Short Term State Disability Insurance  |  Social Security Retirement Benefits  |  Tax Preparation Assistance  |  Temporary Assistance

511Rideshare Statewide / RocEasyRide
Ridesharing can be a convenient option – allowing you to save money and connect with others. 511NY Rideshare offers ride matching for carpools and vanpools, and resources for taking transit, finding park and ride lots, bicycling, walking, telework and other options.

 Local Resources from 211Lifeline.org
Community Ride Programs |  Disability Related Transportation |  Local Automobile Transportation |  Local Bicycle Transportation |  Local Bus Services |  Non-Emergency Medical Transportation | Senior Ride Programs  |  Transportation Expense Assistance  |  Transportation for Endangered People |  Transportation Passes

RTS Jobs First Program
With the RTS "Jobs First" program, RTS offers a free, round-trip bus ride to anyone in the community who is unemployed and needs transportation to an interview. If you need a ride, call RTS Customer Service at 585-288-1700 to find out about eligibility requirements. Just provide your interview details and they'll send out passes for a free round trip on any RTS bus if you qualify

RTS On-Demand
RTS On Demand is a mobility option in which ADA-accessible vehicles provide service on demand within On Demand Zones. Customers can book rides through the On Demand app or by calling Customer Service.

Information for Children, Teens and Their Families
In New York, we offer a range of services to help identify emotional health needs and to provide treatment or support. It is a fact that children can and do recover from even the most serious emotional disturbances.

Information for Military Personnel & Their Families
In recognition of the contributions made by the Armed Forces of the United States, the New York State Office of Mental Health offers outreach, information and referral services, and counseling to support service members, their families, and veterans during deployment, reintegration, and post–deployment periods

Information for New Yorkers Using or Considering Mental Health Services
Services are available to help individuals live full and satisfying lives in their communities. The information in this section is offered to help individuals, friends and families make decisions about using mental health and other services available in your community.

Information for Transition Age Youth
Resources for young people transitioning to adulthood, their families and service providers.

LGBTQIA+ Resources
People who identify as LGBTQIA+ face unique challenges and barriers when using the mental health system.

Local Resources from 211Lifeline.org
Counseling  |  Drop-In Centers  |  In Person Crisis Teams  |  Mental Health Hotlines  |  Specialized Services  |  Support Groups

MHANYS’ Mental Health Information Center (MHIC) Links & Resources Database
If you need further assistance please call MHANYS at 1-800-766-6177 [outside NYS: Call (518) 434-0439], ask for the Mental Health Information Center, or email infocenter@mhanys.org. The MHIC Information and Referral Line operates during regular business hours (M-F; 9am-5pm).  We link you to a broad range of local, statewide, and national mental health organizations and programs, and answer questions on mental health topics.

Monroe County Community Gardens
Community Gardens connect local residents with local and sustainable produce by providing space for families to grow food for their households.

Local Resources from 211Lifeline.org
Food Pantries  |  Foodlink Mobile Markets  |  Grocery Ordering and Delivery  |  Home-Delivered Meals (Meals on Wheels)  |  Hot Meals  |  Mobile Food Pantry  |  Packed Lunches/Dinners  |  Seasonal Meals 

New York Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
The Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program is a special supplemental food program for women, infants, and children up to the age of 5. All applicants must be income eligible and have a medical or nutritional risk. The WIC Program provides nutritious foods, along with nutrition education, and information on where to apply for free or low-cost health care, or other needed services in the community. 

Summer Food Service Program for New York
The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) provides nutritious meals at no cost to children in low-income communities when school is not in session. 

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the largest federal nutrition assistance program. SNAP provides benefits to eligible low-income individuals and families via an Electronic Benefits Transfer card. This card can be used like a debit card to purchase eligible food in authorized retail food stores.

WIC Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP)
The WIC Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) is associated with the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, popularly known as WIC. The FMNP provides coupons for fresh, unprepared, locally grown fruits, vegetables and herbs to individuals certified to receive WIC program benefits. FMNP coupons can be redeemed to buy eligible foods from farmers, farmers' markets or roadside stands that have been approved by the State agency to accept FMNP coupons.

Assisted Home Performance with ENERGY STAR®
The Assisted Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program makes it easy and affordable to make the smart investment in a more energy-efficient home, helping income-eligible homeowners across the State lower their energy bills and live more comfortably all year long.

EmPower New York
EmPower New York provides no-cost energy efficiency solutions to income-eligible New Yorkers.

Find Affordable Housing Opportunities
HUD helps apartment owners offer reduced rents to low-income tenants. To apply, contact or visit the management office of each apartment building that interests you.

Foreclosure Avoidance Counseling
HUD-approved housing counseling agencies are available to provide you with the information and assistance you need to avoid foreclosure.

Habitat for Humanity & ReStores Serving Our Area
Habitat for Humanity is a global nonprofit housing organization. Families in need of decent, affordable housing apply for homeownership with their local Habitat for Humanity. Habitat homeowners pay an affordable mortgage, receive financial education and help build their homes alongside volunteers.

Homelessness Assistance Programs
Homelessness assistance programs serve individuals and families across the United States who are affected by homelessness.

Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)
The housing choice voucher program provides assistance to very low-income families to afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing. Housing can include single-family homes, townhouses and apartments and is not limited to units located in subsidized housing projects.

Housing Counseling Agencies 
Free or low-cost counseling services for buying, renting, defaults, foreclosures, credit issues and reverse mortgages

Local Housing Authorities
Batavia  |  Fairport  |  Jamestown  |  Newark  |  Oswego  |  Rochester  |  Watertown

Local Resources from 211Lifeline.org
Financial Assistance  |  Gas and Electric Payment Assistance  |  Home Maintenance and Repair  |  Home Rehabilitation and Modification Programs  |  Household Items  |  Housing Search  |  Propane Assistance  |  Shelters  |  Weatherization Programs

City of Rochester Community Centers
Rochester's R-Centers offer first-rate programs, facilities and professional staff to promote healthy living, education, creativity, self-discovery and positive relationships

Head Start and Early Head Start Programs
Comprehensive child development programs that serve expecting mothers and their families and children birth to age 3

Help Paying for Child Care
Information about child care subsidies and eligibility for assistance

Local Resources from 211Lifeline.org
Baby Diapers  |  Baby Formula and Food  |  Car Seat Programs  |  Child Care Providers  |  Child Care Respite  |  Child Care Subsidies  |  Parent Support Groups  |  Parenting Skills Classes  |  Pet Food and Supplies  |  Pet Health  |  Schools and Enrollment (Pre-K – 12)  |  Youth Enrichment

myBenefits - New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance
A prescreening tool that provides a quick, easy way for New York State residents to find benefits they might be eligible to receive. This includes programs like Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (SNAP - formerly known as Food Stamps), and Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC)

New York State of Health Marketplace
Compare health plan options and apply for assistance that could lower the cost of your health coverage. You may also qualify for health care coverage from Medicaid or Child Health Plus through the Marketplace.

NYS Early Childhood Family Guide
Early childhood services and information on supports for families

This location serves youth ages 14-24 as a comprehensive service center. This is the headquarters for RochesterWorks youth programming. 

Our services include an on-site resource room, one-on-one advising from knowledgeable staff, and programs like Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), and Youth Navigator. Learn more here.

We offer small-scale events, called “Recruiting Round Rochester” featuring one to two employers at a time, hosted on site at the Career Center. Recruiting Round Rochester is typically hosted on Thursday mornings from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM - view our calendar to see who is hiring next.

Community Job Fairs are midsize events hosted by the Monroe Job Opportunities Integrated Network (JOIN) and a host town or neighborhood in Monroe County, including regular events at the Monroe Community College (MCC) Downtown Campus. These in-person events allow job seekers to directly engage with a large group of participating employers to talk about available openings, discuss the application process, and submit their resumes to recruiters and hiring managers.

JOIN is a partnership between RochesterWorks and Monroe County to increase the accessibility of job fairs for residents in all corners of our community.

1. Register with RochesterWorks by completing an Initial Skills Assessment with a Career Advisor. You can book an appointment online or call to get started.
   
   Phone: 585-258-3500
   TTY (English): 800-662-1220
   TTY (Español): 877- 662-4886
   
   

2. Take the required Training Grant Info Session. In-person options are listed on our workshop calendar, or complete the session online through our e-learning platform.
   
   
3. Complete the Training Grant Application provided at the end of the Training Grant Info session.
   
   
4. Make an appointment with a RochesterWorks Training Grant Representative to review your grant request. Call the Training Grant line at 585-258-3500, option 4.
   
   

1. Who is eligible for Workforce Innovation & Opportunity (WIOA) training funds?

A WIOA grant can only be used to fund training for jobs available in the local job market. Take a look at the Monroe County demand occupations list to determine which job titles would likely be approved for training.

RochesterWorks can only approve training funds for individuals who live in Monroe County or dislocated workers who were laid off from a Monroe County employer.

The person applying for training must be qualified for it and possess the necessary skills and qualifications to enroll in and complete the program. Applicants must meet admission requirements for the school or program they wish to attend.

2. Is there a maximum amount available to an individual?

WIOA grants are only available to a person who is unable to obtain grant assistance or financial aid from other sources. This includes sources such as Trade Adjustment Assistance, Pell Grants, New York State TAP Grants, and financial assistance offered by employers.

Obtaining the RochesterWorks Training Grant requires utilizing all other grants or scholarships available to you. You must complete the FAFSA form to apply for the federal Pell grant and New York State TAP, even if you know you will not be approved. You also need to apply for tuition benefits if your employer offers them. You may still qualify for the RochesterWorks training grant even if you are denied federal or state assistance. Your RochesterWorks training grant will be applied to your tuition and fees before student loans.

3. What training is eligible for funding? Are college courses included?

Support for college courses can only be provided if a degree is required for the type of work sought and all other conditions are met. The requirements are that the training is in a demand occupation, the program can be completed in two years or less, training or education is provided by a New York State Eligible Training Provider, and no other financial aid is available. There are restrictions on bachelor's degree programs for dislocated workers. There is no funding available for master's degrees.

Online courses, distance-learning programs, and hybrid programs are all covered as long as they lead to a credential, require interaction with instructors, and require periodic testing. If your course leads to an industry-recognized credential (such as a license, a certificate, or a degree) from an accredited college, university, or training program, then may be covered.

Is there anything that is not covered?

• Prerequisites are not covered.
• Correspondence or home study courses that don't meet the criteria for distance-learning programs (as outlined above) are not covered.
• Master's degree programs are not covered.

4. If I receive Unemployment Insurance benefits, can I still receive those benefits while I’m in training? (What is Section 599?)

The New York State Department of Labor provides Section 599 to allow people receiving unemployment benefits to still receive benefits while taking part in training courses, such as those funded by our Training Grant. A person approved for training under this provision may be exempt from the work search requirement and may be eligible for up to 26 additional weeks of unemployment benefits when funding is available. Because additional funding isn't always available, approval of your training does not guarantee that you'll receive additional benefits or that they'll cover the term of your training in full.

5. Are there any requirements for receiving funding once I start training? What do I need to do after I’m approved for the grant?

RochesterWorks training grant funding is part of our overall career center funding, so we work with grant recipients to make sure that the training will lead to a suitable job. 

When accepting the grant, the grant recipient agrees to specific responsibilities, one of which is regularly communicating with your career center representative. If you fail to meet these responsibilities, you may lose your funding.

Your career center representative will ask you to update them about your progress at least once a month. We've outlined the specific details about regular contact and other documents we'll need from you on the Employment and Training Plan and Training Enrollment Agreement.  These documents should be kept somewhere you can access them regularly. 

In the Employment and Training Plan, pay special attention to the section on Customer Responsibility.  This section will give you the exact dates when you need to provide certain items.  Our training customers are typically asked to provide us with class attendance, grades, progress reports, the bill and schedule for future semesters and sessions, and a certificate of completion or diploma at the end of training.

6. Is the Training Grant considered taxable income? Will this affect my income taxes next year?

RochesterWorks training grants, like most scholarships, are not taxable. So RochesterWorks won't provide you with any tax-related documents. 

Even if you take out student loans to pay for your education, you may be able to receive tax deductions for the amount not covered by RochesterWorks or other grants or scholarships. Your tax advisor can advise you on how to get the maximum tax benefit from your education.

RochesterWorks provides up to $6,000 to Monroe County residents (or dislocated workers laid off by Monroe County employers) who demonstrate they cannot maintain employment or improve their employment status with their current skills.

Grants are awarded, in part, based on how well the training will prepare you to secure suitable, full-time employment in an in-demand occupation. Many colleges, universities, vocational schools, and training institutions are eligible for funding. You may have to meet specific income guidelines to qualify. Please note, all guidelines and funding are subject to change at any time based on local policy changes and the availability of WIOA funds

An information session is required for any individuals interested in pursuing Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funding for training. See the "How to Apply" section for details on how to get started. 

In addition to on-demand e-learning courses on resume writing and interactive live workshops, our staff can provide you with a detailed review of your resume. You'll learn which resume formats work best for you, how to write effective bullet points, identify transferable skills, and align with resume best practices. Whether you've recently revamped your resume or you haven't written one in years, RochesterWorks can help you get your document in great shape.

If you prefer to experience our workshops at your own pace through videos and mini-quizzes, or if you cannot attend our live sessions, our E-learning courses may be a great fit for you. Courses are available in various lengths, from just a few minutes to about an hour long.

Our catalog also includes information sessions for our popular 5 Steps to Rapid Employment program and Training Grant, the New York State Department of Labor’s Unemployment Orientation, and an overview of the Ticket to Work program.

Launch the e-learning platform

An employment assessment helps you explore career options by relating your interests, skills, abilities, and personality to occupations commonly chosen by people with a similar "profile." However, it does not suggest what you should be or if there are job openings in that occupation. We use the Harrington O'Shea and the O*Net Interest Profiler to assess candidates.

Here's how to get started at home:

• Visit www.mynextmove.org to take the O*Net Interest Profiler.
• Once on the site, click on the 'Tell Us What You Like to Do' box.
• Complete the assessment
• Send an email to cgappointment@rochesterworks.org to schedule an appointment with a Career Advisor.
• Include your O*Net Interest Profiler results and (if possible) your NY number, as well as what you hope to gain from the appointment

Get assistance with your resume, job search, career transition, professional development, and more from a Career Services Advisor. We engage knowledgeable, compassionate, and supportive advisors who focus on the whole person when working with our customers.

A Career Advisor will meet with you for your first appointment to determine your career goals and any barriers you may face. They will work with you to create a strategy to help you reach those goals. Your advisor will provide you with a checklist of resources and recommendations at the end of the session so you always know what to do next.

If our advisors cannot assist with a problem you're facing, they can refer you to one of our community partners.

Contact RochesterWorks to schedule your appointment:

The Monroe County Skills, Training, & Experience Program (STEP) is a joint initiative between RochesterWorks and Monroe County (NY). STEP provides individuals with the skills and experience needed to get a job and become self-sufficient while meeting the workforce needs of local organizations. Learn more here.

 If you are a non-profit, government agency, or educational institution and need help with clerical or other tasks, contact us! There is no cost for your participation; you get assistance you need to help your business move forward while helping these individuals get better acclimated to the workforce. 

In partnership with the Department of Human Services, 691 St. Paul is an Assessment Center, working with public assistance recipients to evaluate each client’s past, present, and future employment goals, and to assign clients to activities to help them reach their goals.

Workshops offered by RochesterWorks are designed to help job seekers achieve their career goals through training and education in Job Readiness, Career Exploration, Self-Employment support, and other special topics. Workshops are great for people who enjoy learning through interactive classroom activities. Our workshops last 60 to 90 minutes during our regular business hours, Monday through Friday.

For on-demand, self-paced learning with our workshops, view the E-Learning section under the Individual Programming tab.

Our job strategy group is a safe space for job seekers to practice introductions, celebrate successes, and learn from one another. We meet every Wednesday morning, and our topics change based on the suggestions and requests of group members.

Day 1: Learn How to Ride the Emotional Roller Coaster

Day One of the 5 Steps Program lays the foundation for success in focus management. Participants will learn how to identify the thoughts and beliefs that may be holding them back, how to change those thoughts, and how to ask better questions.

Day 2: Defining Your Goals - Jobs that Enrich Your Life

Day 2 is all about defining a workplace goal to enrich your life - in other words, "work to live , don't live to work." Instruction builds on day one and dives deeper into what makes you happy both at home and at work. Explore your life values, workplace values, and what options are available that allow you to explore new career pathways.

Day 3: Using Values-Based Resume and Self-Marketing Tools

Day 3 focuses on communicating value messages and how to showcase the value you have to offer an employer. Participants will learn how to create three specific job campaign documents: a value-based resume, a reference portfolio, and a case study.

Day 4: Creating a Meticulous Action Plan (MAP)

If you struggle with a job search plan, Day 4 will help you outline your MAP by planning your time around your end goal and identifying the most effective methods and strategies for your job search. There will be a better sense of organization and structure in your life. 

Day 5: Taking Action and Mastering A Few Self-Marketing Tools

Day 5 will help you put everything you've learned throughout the week together and teach you how to now market yourself using these new insights, including how to effectively do your research before the interview, setting up your campaign headquarters, and bringing your best self to the interview. 

• A minimum of six participants is required for a cohort to run
• Participants need access to the Internet for class sessions and homework.
• Most participants spend 2-4 hours per night on homework
• Using the learning platforms successfully requires a basic understanding of how to use the internet
• Participants need a free Zoom account, a webcam, and a microphone (including those built into your laptop, tablet, desktop, or other smart device).
• Materials and important class information are sent via email - participants should check their inbox regularly and know how to download and open attachments
• Applicants must commit to all five days of instruction if they wish to participate in the program.
• The 5 Steps Info Session is required to apply. Register for an Info Session now online or in person.

5 Steps to Rapid Employment is a holistic, step-by-step career development program combines live instruction with independent online learning where participants learn how to proactively campaign for jobs instead of just searching for them. Through the  program, first developed by Motivational Career Coach Jay Block, Five Steppers learn how to determine their market value, demonstrate the results they can provide to employers, develop self-marketing tools, and take control of their careers regardless of changes in the job market.

Following the program, 5 Step graduates receive ongoing support from an exclusive 5 Steps LinkedIn group, monthly Campaign Team meetings, and one-on-one coaching with RochesterWorks 5 Steps Certified coaches.