Project OPEN

Project OPEN transforms the lives of precariously housed and low income individuals, many with children, veterans and the homeless.

Through partnerships and collaboration, customized skills certification courses are designed to meet the needs of our candidates and provide tools necessary to advance a positive career path. Project Open breaks the cycle of poverty

Founded in 2013 through the OPEN Task Force the project focused on the growing need for Health Care workers in our community. A trend that will continue as a core offering, as aging boomers seek services at home. Hospitals and nursing homes currently suffering scarcities of well-trained individuals provide career opportunities to graduates.

Project Open training is designed to provide the first steps in career development to a fragile often dysfunctional population. Opportunities are available those who achieve the training and challenging course work successfully. The program is comprehensive full service and includes, case management, functional life skills training, technical certification and in many cases job placement.

Candidates are referred to Community Vision through partner agencies, Help Now, A place for Grace, Transition House, HOME (Helping Others Make the Effort) and CareerSource.

Currently funding is provided though generous Grants; City of Kissimmee, United Way and Osceola County. Sponsorships and individual donations are continually needed to pay for tuition, transportation, training materials, child care, life skills materials and support services.

In-kind services (like drug screening and physicals) are provided through key partnerships. Council on Aging’s Success Express, buses and taxis provide transportation.

Project OPEN qualifications include but are not limited to:

• Osceola County residents
• High School Diploma or GED
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Must meet low income requirements
• Must pass TABE test with required reading and math levels
• Meet specific requirements for individual programs
• Be available for class Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 2 PM
• Complete application for specific program
• Participant interview process

Community Vision seeks to expand opportunities based on the need for skilled labor. Partners willing to give graduates employment opportunity are an important part of the formula.

Courses available include:

• CNA, MA and other Healthcare certifications
• Construction, Welding, Fork Lift and others
• Advanced Manufacturing
• Culinary and Horticulture

Contact Community Vision for a complete list of courses and start dates.

Please complete the TECO Project OPEN CNA application.
All applications must be completed and turned in on site at TECO.

Required:

1. No history of any Arrest or Arrest Record (background check and arrest history conducted for all applicants)
2. Minimum education requirement: GED
3. Must be a resident of Osceola County and provide proof of residency