blue sky BAKERY & CAFE

EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
In order for homeless or at-risk youth to become self-sufficient, it is necessary for them to obtain and maintain employment. Unfortunately, most of these youth face myriad challenges to employment, including:

Incomplete education
Lack of work experience and references
Unclear career direction
Criminal records
Unstable housing

Research conducted by the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless indicated that 40% of homeless youth surveyed reported that they needed, but did not receive, help finding employment. blue sky inn is prepared to fill this need by not only providing paid employment, but the supportive services necessary to ensure that youth can achieve their long-term employment goals.

The blue sky employment program provides homeless and at-risk youth with employment at blue sky BAKERY & CAFE. Youth gain valuable experience in cooking, baking, customer service and cash-handling.

In addition, youth participate in a weekly Job Club. This is a 60-minute paid session that addresses "soft skills" such as teamwork, conflict resolution, interpersonal communication, accountability, critical thinking and problem solving. Youth are also provided with information related to checking and savings accounts, payroll taxes, resume writing, internships, and advanced culinary training.

In summary, The blue sky employment program provides youth with:

A paid, part-time job in a supportive environment
On-the-job training in foodservice, one of the fastest growing industries and the second largest employer in the country
The opportunity to build a work history and references
Exposure to a wide range of employment options
"Soft skills" training
Incentives to pursue their educational goals