Esperanza Unida's Support Services

Through years of practice, Esperanza Unida has learned that, in addition to teaching specific, job-related skills, training programs must also include services to help prepare people for the "non-work" skills required for economic self-sufficiency. Thus, we have developed a series of services that support, educate, and assist people in overcoming the common barriers to long-term, fulfilling employment.

LEARNING CENTER
Offers an educational setting where community residents come to learn basic academic skills, prepare for the General Equivalency Diploma (GED) test and take English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. The program also prepares students to take the Skilled-Trades Apprenticeship test and accelerates students' math, writing and reading skills.

AMERITECH RESOURCE CENTER
This center was designed to help Esperanza's students overcome common barriers to entering the work force. It provides professional clothing and accessories, as well as a collection of literature covering topics ranging from child care resources to job interview techniques.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Recruitment and orientation of our students is guided by this department. Coordinators also help integrate the vocational, academic and non-work needs of our students. Esperanza has learned that skill training and jobs are not the only needs of our students and that we need to work with the whole person to be successful. The student coordination department is in place to build on students' strengths and to help them address their barriers to success.

LEGAL SUPPORT SERVICES

Since its inception in 1971, Esperanza Unida has been providing bilingual legal support to Wisconsin's injured and unemployed workers.  This program still operates today, providing counseling and representation to this community's workers under Wisconsin's Worker's Compensation and Unemployment Insurance statutes.