Jim* is one of the 30+ scholarship applicants we have received since launching Allies to the Out-of-Work. After being unemployed for several years now, he's terrified that he'll never find work. Without available funds, he cannot get the help he needs to find employment. Harnessing the power of the micro-fundraising site, Indiegogo.com, we launched a campaign to raise $10,000 that will give 100 long-term unemployed people a full scholarship to our Job Search Accelerator Program (JSAP). This program is helping hundreds of people find work. However, it’s not something we can give away for free. So, we are hoping to get donations from those of you out there who:
A) Have been out of work recently and know how hard the job search really is.
B) Know somebody long-term unemployed and want to sponsor them.
C) Care about getting Americans back to work and on their feet.
Find out how you can be an ally to the out-of-work. You can learn more about the program (and donate) by click the botton below: DONATE NOW ► For the next 3 weeks, we will share stories of those who have applied for a scholarship (see the application form here), so you can see how important it is that we get them the help they want and deserve, but can’t afford. Meet Jim: Q: What’s the hardest part about unemployed long-term?A: It's hard to choose just one. The sense of dread that comes with meeting new people, and dreading the inevitable "So, what do you do?" Wondering if I'll ever land a permanent job. The loss of confidence and value that comes with being out of work for so long, and having to answer for it at every interview. Feeling abandoned by the economy and shut out of the job market.Q: What have you been doing to look for work so far?A: Responding to job postings, applying for seasonal positions, interning, reaching out to friends and connections for leads, and looking for ways to branch out and expand my network.Q: Why do you feel our Job Search Accelerator Program can help you?A: I feel that the Job Search Accelerator Program will provide valuable training and a much-needed shot in the arm to my search. I've gotten many "come on" e-mails advertising the JSAP, and always thought, "That would be perfect - but I just don't have the funds!" The JSAP will teach me new networking skills, new search methods, and restore my confidence and motivation.CommentsThanks for doing this scholarship program. Your scholarship eligibility requirements state that you have to have been unemployed for at least six months, and I *really, really* hate to say this, but I've been out of work for several years, and getting by on seasonal work, occasional temp jobs, and unemployment insurance.
