UCAP

Computer Training is offered for adults seeking to gain computer knowledge and upgrade software skills. With this training, participants are empowered with knowledge that will allow them to successfully compete in the job market. The computer training program helps customers to improve computer access, advance literacy, and provides specialized training in Microsoft Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint. Customers are prepared to take advantage of a variety of employment opportunities and are eligible to test for certifications.

Educational Services Computer Training is offered to adults seeking to advance computer knowledge and upgrade software skills, so that they can compete in the job market. The computer training program helps customers improve computer access, advance literacy, and prepares them to take advantage of employment opportunities. Adult Basic Education offers preparation classes designed for Maryland residents striving to achieve their High School Diploma. Students participate in a 15-week program that provides instruction in Reading, Math, Science, Social Studies and Writing – the 5 areas covered on the Maryland GED examination.

Emergency Shelter – SHEPHERD’S COVE At full capacity the shelter serves 100 women and children daily. Shepherd’s Cove is operated 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year by caring professionals. When clients are admitted in the program they are assigned to a case manager who works with the individual or family to complete an assessment, which helps the case manager to determine the needs of the individual/family and develop an Individualized Service Plan (ISP). Although Shepherd’s Cove primary goal is to provide a clean and safe environment for the clients, referrals for supportive services such as health care, mental health care, substance abuse services, employment services and educational services, and housing services are provided to address the reasons for homelessness. Researchers have found that unemployment, low wages, and limited education have been the strongest contributing factors to homelessness in America; although poor mental health and substance abuse are also factors that make it difficult for the homeless to overcome their situation.

Shepherd’s Cove has staff available to prepare three well balanced nutritious meals for the women and children daily. These provisions make it possible for our clients to concentrate on goals that lead to self-sufficiency because they do not have to worry about how their next meal will be provided. In addition, the shelter has a day care center that is free and fully equipped. Services rendered allow parents of children to have a safe and structured environment for their children while they are working, searching for employment and housing or accomplishing other goals. We provide our clients with tokens and metro passes when needed. This is another way that UCAP works to address barriers faced by clients they may make it difficult for meeting their goals. During this program year, several of our clients attended job fairs hosted by UCAP and others held in the community. In addition, two former clients attended UCAP?s GED program and participated in the graduation ceremony for December 2008.

For this program year, Shepherd’s Cove children's programs served 198 children from ages 5 to 12 who participated in day care activities, after school program activities, and summer camp activities. UCAP partners with Camp Fire USA and Prince George?s County Public Schools to coordinate the camp program and the after school program for our children. The children are served lunches and snacks and engage in recreational activities and educational activities. Children centered activities for these programs include tutoring in math, reading, writing, help with homework, arts and craft, recreational activities and trips to educational institutions. Throughout the year we provided other holiday specific activities. For example, in the month of October, the children participated in a Halloween Party and did the traditional trick or treating activity by going from office to office for their treats or tricks. In December a Christmas party, which included gifts and a Santa Claus, was hosted by the National Harbor. In February the women and children celebrated Black History Month. The children drew pictures, wrote short stories and presented on some of their favorite black history heroes and heroines. And, in March an Easter Egg Hunt was held in doors and on the play ground. Please click here to view our WISH LIST.

Employment Services endeavor to empower participants to successfully enter the job market following periods of unemployment or sporadic work periods. This program serves Maryland residents and provides support service to increase employment opportunities. Employment services provide workshops, support groups, life skills management counseling and discussion groups to encourage the acquisition of job seeking and job securing skills, decision-making skills and leadership qualities. The Office of Employment Services (OEES) averages 130 customers per month, many of whom are facing barriers and challenges in their lives.

Financial Literacy Workshops bridge the gap due to the lack of financial literacy taught in the American Educational System. The lack of financial management training has led to significant credit problems, excessive debt, eviction, foreclosure, and bankruptcy. The goal is to increase the level of customer financial knowledge so that they will make better financial choices.

First-time Homebuyers Program (FTHB) provides program participates a face-to-face meeting with a housing counselor to: (1) see if homeownership is a viable option, (2) complete a debt analysis, and (3) calculate how much the customer can afford. Through a series of nine workshops, the customer receives valuable information regarding the home purchasing process. Once a customer completes the program, and a contract is approved, funding for a down payment is secured.

Green Jobs Training Program UCAP is dedicated to the development of “Green Jobs” that will focus on the economy and the environment. These jobs will include all types of jobs that will improve environmental quality. A new, multi-billion dollar economic sector is emerging, bringing new opportunities in green construction, clean technology, urban agriculture and energy. Our goal: ensure that this green economy is strong enough to lift people out of poverty. Green-Collar Jobs Campaign creates opportunities in the green economy for poor people and people of color through policy advocacy, public outreach, and an employment pipeline - the Green Jobs Corps.

The comprehensive 20-month program will include job readiness training, classroom instruction, and on-the-job experience for about 100 Prince George?s County residents. We're excited to see the green-collar jobs movement taking root in Prince George?s County Maryland.

Homeless Prevention Program, provided through UCAP’s administration of the Service-Linked Housing Program (SLHP), is designed to link low-to-moderate income residents and individuals with multiple needs to services and resources and is designed to assist customers with obtaining and remaining in permanent housing. Customers include people who are homeless, individuals with developmental, physical or mental disabilities, people with substance abuse disorders, and children with serious emotional disturbances. Eligible customers may receive financial support for rent, to prevent eviction, and to prevent utility service interruptions.

Housing Counseling Program provides financial management and budget counseling to those customers who are not eligible to receive financial assistance through UCAP. By providing limited case management, UCAP is able to provide referral and links to other social services, community resources, faith-based programs, employment, food, health, education, clothing, and domestic violence agencies to provide them with the necessary assistance.

Progressive Path Program offers transitional/permanent housing to people with disabilities and their families,and provides a comprehensive supportive program designed to enable them to: 1) increase skills, 2) increase self- sufficiency, and 3) receive training that would increase their ability to earn a higher income.

Seniors Services The Senior Program at UCAP provides opportunities for 88 golden aged participants to socialize and participate in recreational, civic and educational activities. Each week our active seniors are offered a diverse program of activities. Our program includes cultural events, friendly visits, social gatherings, seminars, luncheons, guest speakers, outings to historic sites, and holiday celebrations. These seniors receive assistance and supportive services to help keep them independent.

Green Industry Certification Program Prince George’s County residents who want to get into the green industry can become certified in sustainable concepts. The six week training course and exam is offered at UCAP. Graduates will receive six industry certifications and job placement assistance. For detailed information, please call 301.322.5700 extension 108.