December 3 rd , 2012 C H I Issue 122

T he C hristopher W atts Initiative

THE SUN IS THE LIMIT…..REACH FOR THE SUN

The purpose of this newsletter is to provide guidance, opportunities and information to individuals looking for assistance. Anyone who receives it should take the information to use and share it with others.

Published By: C hristopher W atts, M B A Community & Career Builder The Christopher Watts Initiative E-mail: [email protected] Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherwattsmba Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/cwinitiative Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Christopher.Watts.Initiative    

December 3 rd , 2012 C H I Issue 122 T he C hristopher W atts Initiative

The Sun is the Limit…..Reach for the Sun

Where to find the Christopher Watts Initiative Online 

T he C hristopher W atts Initiative has a Facebook Jobs Board page. It lists up-todate information on job openings. TO HAVE UNLIMITED ACCESS to the page: 1. Log on to your Facebook page. 2. Type “Christopher Watts Presents: The Chicagoland Jobs Board” in the search bar.  3. Make sure you “Like” the page so that the information will automatically appear in your  news feed when new information is posted (I will post daily) 4. Or, go to http://www.facebook.com/Christopher.Watts.Initiative           T he

C hristopher W atts Initiative has a Twitter page. Follow me

@cwinitiative to see tweets on up-to-date job openings information.    

behind T he

 If you want to find out more about Christopher Watts, MBA, the man C hrisitopher W atts Initiative, look me up on LinkedIn.com. 

December 3 rd , 2012 C H I Issue 122 T he C hristopher W atts Initiative

A returning citizen, commonly referred to as an ex-offender or convicted felon, is someone who is transitioning back into society as a law abiding and productive community member. It includes individuals that have been incarcerated and have lived outside the law. During this transition, returning citizens look to family, friends and community organizations for assistance, support and direction. Although all support and assistance is appreciated and needed, returning citizens must self-critique and work on him/herself to make the transition smoother by changing the negative perception of returning citizens in mainstream America. The first step is changing the negative terminology used, such as ex-offender and convicted felon, and use "RETURNING CITIZEN.”

December 3 rd , 2012 C H I Issue 122 T he C hristopher W atts Initiative

C ar rington Mortgage Services O pen House . Tuesday, December 11th. 5:30pm – 7:30pm @ 2021 Midwest Road, Suite 200 Oakbrook, IL 60523. Positions Available: Loan Officer and Sales Manager. This open house is invitation only, so be sure to RSVP. To RSVP, contact John Cervantes at 949.517.7127

St. Sabina Employment Resource Center “GED Preparedness Class”  Information Session. Wednesday, December 5th, Thursday, December 6th and Friday,

December 7th @ 10am Sharp. 7909 S Racine Chicago, IL 6062. Must bring valid state issued ID and proof of address. For questions and to RSVP call (773) 783-3760

A dvanced Resources O pen House. Wednesday, December 5th. 9am – 4pm @ 40 Skokie Blvd., Suite 110 Northbrook, IL 60062. Please contact our Northbrook office to schedule an appointment: 847.418.3770. Open positions: Administrative Assistant for a CPA firm in Northbrook ($15/hr); Inside Sales Representative for a distribution company in Buffalo Grove ($30k plus commission); Administrative Assistant for a growing marketing team in Lincolnshire ($14/hr); Inventory Control for medical device corporation in Vernon Hills ($16-18/hr); Account Manager for a $1M+ manufacturing company in Deerfield ($15/hr); Office Manager for a financial services firm in Buffalo Grove ($20+/hr); Excel Project Administrator for a healthcare firm in Deerfield ($15/hr); Admissions Advisor for a reputable college ($30k plus commission) and Receptionist to fill in on an as-needed basis over the holidays ($12/hr). Must bring an updated resume and 2 forms of government issued IDs. Must provide 3 professional references.

Summer A dvantage USA is looking to fill a Recruiter position. The Recruiter is responsible for sourcing, recruiting, hiring and retaining high-quality leaders and teachers for our accelerated summer learning program. The incumbent must recruit across assigned region, develop critical relationships necessary to attract a robust candidate pool, and effectively manage workstreams in support of meeting staffing goals. At least 1-2 years recruiting experience, including sourcing, interviewing, and selection. Recent graduates may apply, provided there is demonstration of 3.5 GPA or higher and other indicators of previous success. Must have a /bachelor degree. Proficiency with various software systems, including Taleo, Salesforce, Outlook, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word and PowerPoint is required. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and we will contact those candidates with whom we are able to schedule interviews. To apply visit www.summeradvantage.org and complete online application.

M V T ransportation Inc. is looking to fill several Bus Driver positions. We are hiring SAFE BUS DRIVERS to work in the City of Chicago and surrounding communities. This is year 'round work. We pay $12.50/hour, $13.00/hour for weekends. Must have a class "C" CDL or be able to obtain one with passenger endorsement. We provide CDL training. TRAINING STARTS IMMEDIATELY...COME IN AND APPLY TODAY TO START EARNING A PAY CHECK! We are easily accessible from the PACE 290 bus and the CTA 85A bus! Must pass a drug test and have a clean driving record and clean criminal background. Apply in person at 6230 W. Gross Point Road Niles, IL 60714

December 3 rd , 2012 C H I Issue 122 T he C hristopher W atts Initiative

E quinox is looking to fill several Equinox Part-Time Retail Shop Associate openings. Please send your resume in Word format with "Part-Time Retail Shop Associate --Chicago" as the subject, along with a cover letter in your email stating your availability to [email protected] Centers for New Horizons is looking to fill a site Director position. This position is responsible for managing and overseeing the day-to-day operations within the Head Start center. It includes planning, coordinating and implementing educational services to consumers based on their needs. Minimum of a Bachelors Degree in Child Development or a closely related field with 18 hours in child development. Childcare Development Associate certification a plus. 1-3 years working experience in a head start center. To apply email your resume and cover letter with “Site Director” in the subject area to [email protected] Centers for New Horizons is looking to fill a Type 04 Teacher position. Responsible for administrative management of the Pre-K classroom. Must maintain accurate records with the ability to communicate with peers and parents. Develop and manage lesson plans, progress reports, and testing for Pre-K students. Bachelor’s degree in Education with a Type 04  certification. Education: Master’s preferred, or closely related field, plus 5 years experience in  supervisory or administrative position in social service of childcare setting. To apply email your resume and cover letter with “Type 04 Teacher” in the subject area to [email protected] Centers for New Horizons is looking to fill a Teacher Assistant (Early Head Start) position. This position is responsible for assisting in the planning and implementation of developmentally appropriate learning activities that allow children to explore and understand the world within and around them. Candidate must have a minimum of CDA credential or be enrolled in a program that will be completed within two years. Infant/Toddler Credential a plus. To apply email your resume and cover letter with “Teacher Assistant” in the subject area to  [email protected]

Baker’s Square (Orland Park, IL and Burbank, IL) has the following openings: Cashier, Cook and Server. The pay is $9/HR - $12/HR. Apply online: www.bakerssquare.com

Centers for New Horizons is looking to fill a Parent & Community Involvement Coordinator position. This person is responsible for developing systems, methods, curriculum, and tools to involve parents actively in their children’s education and in the work of Centers’  early childhood education program area. Research, develop, and implement training, interactive activities, and other ideas to help parents gain: knowledge of healthy child and adolescent development and what they can do to promote the healthy development of their children. Bachelor of Arts degree or equivalent experience in a related field; education business, administration, political science. Two years experience working with parents and two years project management experience. Must have reliable and insured transportation. To apply email your resume and cover letter with “Parent & Community Involvement Coordinator” in the  subject area to [email protected]

December 3 rd , 2012 C H I Issue 122 T he C hristopher W atts Initiative

*W ilde & G reene is an exciting restaurant and natural market at Westfield Old Orchard in Skokie, Illinois. We are looking to fill the following openings: Host and Cashier. If you are interested in applying for any of these positions, please submit your resume to [email protected]

Centers for New Horizons is looking to fill a Family Support Specialist position. The Family Support Specialist will develop and maintain relationships with families and ensure that they receive comprehensive services through their participation in the program. The Family Support Specialist is also responsible for conducting community outreach efforts to identify and develop relationships with community-based organizations that provide other needed services to families.  A Bachelor’s degree in social service or related field is preferred.  Experience working  with families in a community-based Head Start or family support program. To apply email your resume and cover letter with “Family Support Specialist” in the subject area to  [email protected] Safelite G roup is looking to fill several Technician Trainee positions in Chicago and Berwyn. Safelite Group is a nationwide family of retail auto glass companies - the nation's leading provider of auto glass repair and replacement services. To apply email your resume and cover letter to [email protected]. Also, visit www.safelitecareers.com today to view a listing of all of our current openings on our growing team.

Centers for New Horizons is looking to fill a Foster Care Licensing Representative position. Candidate is responsible for management and implementation of all functions related to recruitment, licensing, training and compliance for licensed and unlicensed foster homes in accordance to Illinois Department of Children and Family Services standards (Rule 401, 402) protocols and regulations. Masters degree from an accredited university meeting the standards of the Illinois Department of Children Family Services requirements; 3 years previous experience as a DCFS certified Licensing Representative or worker. Must have passed the Child Care Act, 402 (Licensing) and CERAP. Certified as trainer in PRIDE or certified trainer with DCFS a plus. To apply email your resume and cover letter with “Foster Care Licensing Representative”  in the subject area to [email protected]

J C C C hicago is looking to fill the following openings: Administrative Support, Summer 2013 Day Camp Staff, Summer 2013Lifeguards and Swim Instructors, Maintenance Staff, Vacation Days Program Staff, After School Staff (Substitutes) and much more. Go to www.gojcc.org to see positions, descriptions and to apply. G reat H arvest B read Co is looking for an experienced early morning Baker. We start every morning at 4am rain or shine. Apply @ 2126 Central Street Evanston, IL 60201 Paisans Pizzeria and Bar O pen C all. Wednesday, December 5th. 2pm – 5pm @ 6226 W. Ogden Ave. Berwyn, IL 60402. Open positions: Bartender, Server and Host. Must be customer service driven and have a great personality. Bring an updated copy of your resume.

December 3 rd , 2012 C H I Issue 122 T he C hristopher W atts Initiative

M V T ransportation, Inc. is looking to fill several Service Porter positions. Job entails washing fleet of vehicles (inside and out), fueling all vehicles and SAFELY parking vehicles. Shift operates from 8pm-430am; days vary. Pay is $11.00/hour with a CDL, $10.00/hour without a CDL. Must possess a valid drivers license (CDL a +) with no more than 1 speeding ticket in 5 years. We are easily accessible from the PACE 290 bus and the CTA 85A bus! Apply in person @ 6230 W. Gross Point Road Niles, IL 60714 Buona C atering is looking to fill the following openings: Delivery Driver, Cook and Food Production. Must have kitchen experience. Positions are seasonal. Apply in person Monday – Friday 10am – 12pm and 2pm – 4pm @ 6801 West Roosevelt Road Berwyn, Illinois A Personified Confidential Client is seeking experienced Machine Operators for immediate openings in the Chicagoland area. The pay is $12.75/HR. As a Machine Operator you will operate machines that perform one or more packaging functions such as filling, labeling, packing, or wrapping containers and/or responsible for operating and maintaining the mogul equipment by performing the following duties. 3-6 months of machine operator experience OR 1+ years of food manufacturing experience required. Must be 18+ years of age. Must be able to work scheduled hours and overtime. Must be able to work a flexible schedule including weekends and/or holidays. Must be able to successfully pass a criminal background check, physical and drug screen. Click to apply: http://bullhorn.personified.com/client/jobInfoApplicationRespMgmt.action?EntityID=7703&sou rce=Craigslist_P

K enall (Gurnee, IL) is looking to fill a Recruiter position. Kenall is a champion in manufacturing complex lighting solutions for healthcare, high-abuse, transportation, sealed enclosure and security detention environments. For nearly 50 years, Kenall has been a proud advocate for manufacturing in America. The Recruiter will creatively develop and execute recruiting plans; network through extensive contacts and memberships; build and advance recruiting initiatives via schools, career fairs, professional organizations and social media on behalf of the Company. Requirements include 3+ years of experience in full lifecycle recruiting components (preferably from within the manufacturing industry) including, but not limited to, sourcing, networking, qualifying, assessing, etc.; ability to recruit for a broad range of positions and present new recruiting concepts. Must be results driven and possess a high level of initiative. Excellent project management, communication and organizational skills required. To apply email your resume and cover letter to [email protected] or fax to (847) 360-9480 T he A merican Medical Association (A M A) is looking to fill a Staff Assistant III position. Specific responsibilities will include providing routine support and making travel and meeting arrangements; scheduling conference calls; processing expense reports; preparing correspondence; and assisting with oversight of the budget by monthly monitoring. Bachelor’s  degree preferred; plus 3-5 years of experience in an administrative position required. To apply for this position, external applicants can submit a resume and cover letter to: [email protected] and apply online at: www.ama-assn.jobs for job #3352DH.

December 3 rd , 2012 C H I Issue 122 T he C hristopher W atts Initiative

House of the Good Shepherd is looking to fill a Family Advocate position. The Family Advocate supports the families in a domestic violence program with their journey of healing and recovery, empowering them to gain the skills necessary to live violence-free lives. She/he will provide support counseling and case management services in the afternoon and evening hours. This is a full-time position with afternoon and evening hours Monday-Friday. There are two required weekend shifts per month. Bilingual English/Spanish is a must. Must have a Bachelor degree. To apply email your resume and cover letter with “Family Advocate” in the subject area  to [email protected] Sterling E ngineering is looking to fill several 2nd and 3rd shift Maintenance Technician positions. Responsible for trouble shooting and problem solving any electrical and mechanical problems as well as performing all routine and basic equipment maintenance. Must have strong mechanical knowledge. To apply email your resume and cover letter with “Maintenance  Technician” in the subject area to [email protected]

A iroom, Chicagoland's premier design/building renovation company, is seeking an experienced person for Customer Service Coordinator. Keep clients informed and report on issues and progress during the process. Represent the organization and communicate with customers and other people outside the organization in person, in writing, or by telephone or email. Must have a high school diploma/GED. Must type at least 35wpm. Must be proficient with Microsoft Office software. To apply email your resume with “Customer Service Coordinator” in  the subject area to [email protected] T he H igher Learning Commission is looking to fill 2 Process Assistant, Accreditation Services positions. The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, a non-profit higher education association, seeks two highly organized, detail-minded individuals with experience in working with a member based organization, data entry and database use, and administrative assistant support for mid- and executive-level personnel. The positions require excellent written communication, attention to detail, ability to work well alone, as well as in a team, exceptionally strong phone and in-person communication. Process and project coordination experience a plus. Bachelor’s degree preferred; associate’s  degree required. The position is available immediately. Must have 3-5 years of related experience in administrative support or project and process management. Submit letter of application, resume, salary history, and three work references to [email protected]

DSI Security is currently seeking full time and part time Security Officers in the Chicago, IL (Bedford Park) area. Must have a PERC card and 20 Hour Basic Security Training Certificate. Must be 18+ years of age. Must submit to a drug screen and background check. Please apply online at www.dsisecurity.com D' Agostino's Pizza and Pub is looking to fill the following openings: Phone Person, Server and Bartender. Apply in person @ 752 N. Ogden Ave. Chicago IL 60642

December 3 rd , 2012 C H I Issue 122 T he C hristopher W atts Initiative

A utomated H ealth Systems (Schaumburg, IL), a leader in the administration of health management services is currently seeking motivated and team-oriented individuals for a parttime (up to 35 hours) Customer Service Representatives within an inbound call center environment. Minimum 2 years of Inbound Call Center experience required. Minimum 2 years of customer service experience required. Experience in Health/Human Services and familiarity w/ Medicaid preferred. Associate`s Degree preferred. Bilingual (Spanish) a plus. Salary $13/hour.  To apply email your resume and cover letter with “Customer Service Representative”  in the subject area to [email protected] R A C Acceptance Collections Center C areer F air. Wednesday, December 5th. 10am – 6pm @ 108 Touhy Ct Des Plaines, IL 60018. Open positions: Sales Managers, Sales Assistants, Customer Service Reps and Collections Specialists are available at RAC Acceptance locations in North Chicago and the surrounding Area. If you have experience dealing with customers, inventory & employees in any Sales or Service Business please apply online BEFORE THE EVENT. @ www.racareers.net - Refer to job # 101633 or use keyword "Open House Hiring Event"

Intersections Insurance Services Inc. “Call Center” Open House. Thursday,

December 6th. 1pm – 6pm @ 315 W. University Drive Arlington Heights, IL 60004. For a complete list of openings and to learn more about our company, please visit our career portal at http://www.intersections.com/Careers.html

O D W Logistics (Melrose Park, IL) is looking to fill several Sit-down Forklift Operator positions. Must have experience. Must submit to a drug screen and background check. To apply email your resume and cover letter with “Sit-down Forklift Operator” in the subject area to  [email protected]

Z A R A is looking to fill several Sales Associate positions. Must be available to work weekends. Apply in person @ 700 North Michigan Ave Chicago, IL 60611 Digby's Detective & Security Agency, Inc. is looking to fill several armed and unarmed Security Guard positions. Must be 21+ years of age. Must have a high school diploma/GED. Must have a valid PERC card. Apply in person Monday – Friday, 9am – 4pm @ 2630 S. Wabash Ave. Chicago, Illinois 60616 Phone 312-326-1100 T he Howard A rea Employment Resource Center (www.howardarea.org) is offering FREE computer classes. Classes are Monday – Thursday, 9am – 11:30am @ 1623 W Howard Street Chicago, IL 60626 (773) 262-3515. Introduction to Computers will be covered December 3rd – 6th. Intro to Microsoft Excel will be covered December 10th – 13th. Introduction to Microsoft Word/Resume Writing will be covered December 17th – 20th.

December 3 rd , 2012 C H I Issue 122 T he C hristopher W atts Initiative

Blatt, Hasenmiller, Leibsker & Moore “Collections Specialist” Open House.

Wednesday, December 5th. 8:30am – 11am and 1pm – 3pm @ 125 S. Wacker Drive Suite 400 Chicago, IL 60606. Chicago-based collection/creditor's rights law firm is looking for is looking for confident, enthusiastic and personally driven Collection Specialists with strong communication and negotiation skills to join our winning team. Candidates must be able to pass a credit and criminal background check. Collection Specialist: Ideal candidate must have 2-3 year's work experience in accounts receivables, sales, telemarketing, collection experience or college students with a professional talk-off, effective rebuttals, a working knowledge of basic financial instruments, and computer literate with basic typing skills. Work schedule: Must be able to work 1 late night (11:15 a.m. -- 8:00 p.m.) and 1 Saturday per month (8:00 a.m. -- 12:00 p.m.). This position requires candidate to meet and exceed the established individual goals, and contributing to team and department goals and objectives.

C B M Premier at Cook County Department of Corrections is seeking qualified foodservice staff. The job requires supervision of inmate workers in various assignments in the kitchen including food preparation, service of meals, and sanitation. Other areas of assignment may be Officers Dining Room, Warehouse / Distribution, Maintenance Assistant and Dietary Aide. We are accepting entry level to management applicants. All applicants must be able to pass a criminal background check. This means you can have no felony convictions to work within the facility. To apply email your resume to [email protected]

PrideStaff Job Fair. Wednesday, December 5th. 9am – 2:30pm @ Prairie State College 202 S Halsted Street Chicago Heights, IL 60411. Open positions: Assembly, General Warehouse, Forklift Operator, Machine Operator and Maintenance Mechanic. Starting salary for positions range (starting at $8.25) based upon level of experience, position, and shift schedule. We have openings on various shifts (1st, 2nd, 3rd, & weekends). Candidates will be required to pass pre-employment screening which includes drug screen, background investigation and I-9 Eligibility (E-Verify).

Northwestern College (Bridgeview, IL) is looking to fill a Financial Assistance Representative position. Minimum of Associate degree or equivalent education required; Bachelor degree preferred. One year previous customer service experience preferred. Email resumes to [email protected] or fax to 773-326-0957 -- please be sure to include "FAR" in the subject line. Espo E ngineering Corp is looking to fill a 2nd Shift Electrical Maintenance position in Portage, IN. Skilled Electrical maintenance personnel with five years PLC experience in an industrial process line application. Familiarity with HMI and network communication systems is desirable along with the ability to troubleshoot hydraulic and pneumatic circuits from schematic drawings. Experience with light welding and troubleshooting mechanical systems is a plus. Individual will also be involved with building and facilities electrical maintenance such as lighting system, air compressors and overhead bridge cranes. To apply email your resume and 3 reference with “2nd Shift Electrical Maintenance (Ref: 651112)” to [email protected]

December 3 rd , 2012 C H I Issue 122 T he C hristopher W atts Initiative

M idtown A thletic C lub is looking to fill a Café Associate position. You must be able to cook and provide excellent customer service to our members. Must have at least one year of experience cooking in a professional kitchen. To apply email your resume and cover letter with “Café Associate” in the subject area to [email protected] Espo E ngineering Corp is looking to fill a CNC Operator position in Chicago, IL. Client is in need of a CNC Operator on 2nd shift (mill and lathe) that can run CNC Lathe or Milling machines. Emphasis is more on lathe experience at this time than milling. All candidates should have experience in hydraulics-pumps, valves, motors-which is beneficial. Candidates must know how to do the following: G-Code programming, can read blue-prints, know GD & T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing), can inspect their own parts with gauges, also change inserts and make off-sets. To apply email your resume and 3 reference with “CNC Operator (Ref: 635412)”  to [email protected] Residence Inn By Mar riott C hicago/O' H are is looking to fill a Housekeeping Supervisor position. Must be able to work a flexible schedule to include weekends and holidays. Apply in person @ 7101 Chestnut Street Rosemont, IL 60018 or email your resume to [email protected] Soupbox is now hiring counter staff. We have 4 positions to fill, with flexible schedules 20 40 hours a week available. Ideal candidates are personable and responsible with open availability. This is a perfect full or part time job for students/artists/etc. We offer competitive wages, flexible schedules and a supportive work environment. Our counter staff makes $9+ an hour and has a blast doing it. Interested parties are encouraged to fill out an application at either of our stores; 50 E Chicago Ave or 2943 N Broadway Ave. APPLY IN PERSON ONLY - No emails or phone calls please! Come in after 2pm, fill out an application and get interviewed on the spot. We are interviewing and hiring this week - apply today and start this weekend!

Youth O utreach Services has the following opening: Evening Reporting Center Counselor. Location: St. Angela's Office, Chicago, IL 60651. Shift: Monday-Friday, (3:30pm-9:30pm) Parttime, 30 hours a week. Under the direction of the Program Manager, ERC Counselors will work with at-risk youth referred from Juvenile Court. Bachelor's degree in a human service field preferred; high school diploma or equivalent required. Two years experience working with atrisk juveniles and CADC preferred. Valid drivers license and vehicle insurance, as well as a clear driving record, is required. Apply online: www.yos.org

L ieberman M anagement Services is looking to fill the following openings: Doorman Staff, Maintenance Staff and Garage Attendant. We are a managing agent that facilitates the hiring process for managed condominium associations. Resumes should be sent to: [email protected] or fax: 312-553-1240. Please list the position you are applying for in the subject line of the e-mail/fax. Applications submitted with no position listed, will not be accepted.

December 3 rd , 2012 C H I Issue 122 T he C hristopher W atts Initiative

V ision Integrated G raphics, L L C seeks a Data Coordinator for its Tinley Park location. The Data Coordinator liaisons between the Information Services department, Customer Service, Mailing and Shipping departments, and provides support in all data communication activities. Must have 2+ years of experience. To apply email your resume and salary requirements to [email protected] Corner Bakery is looking to fill several Line Cook and Catering Supervisor positions. Apply any day from 8am – 11am & 2pm – 4pm @ Willis Tower 233 S Wacker Dr Chicago, IL

T urning Point (Skokie, IL) has the following openings: Support Staff. Perform receptionist responsibilities, including but not limited to: coverage of front desk operations; timely completion of all data entry; daily filing of client reports; pulling and filing of client charts and opening and closing procedures. Support to all Turning Point Staff including but not limited to: typing, data entry, arranging meetings, project work and other support tasks. Salary range for this position is $25-27,000. Must have a high school diploma/GED. Must pass a background check. Must be proficient with Microsoft Office software. Please send resume and cover letter to [email protected]

T he H udson G roup has the following openings in the Citigroup Building in downtown Chicago: Customer Service Associate ($8.50/HR), Supervisor ($9/HR) and Bookseller ($10/HR). To apply email your resume and cover letter indicating the position of interest in the subject area to [email protected] E rie F amily H ealth Center has the following openings: Call Center Operator, Case Manager, Dental Assistant, Call Center Supervisor, Housekeeping, Lab Assistant, Maintenance Assistant and many more. To see all positions, descriptions, requirements and to apply go to www.eriefamilyhealth.org Total A irport Services is looking to fill several Ramp Agent positions at O’Hare Airport.  Must be 18+ years of age. Must be able to lift and pull 70lbs. Must submit to a drug screen and background check. Must have a valid state issued driver’s license. Apply in person with your  valid state issued driver’s license and social security card at 515 Express Center Dr (2nd floor) Chicago, IL 60666

T he F ree E nterprise System is currently hiring for Shuttle Drivers, Charter Drivers, Van Drivers and Diesel Mechanics. Shuttle Drivers and Charter Drivers must have a Class B CDL with passenger and air brakes endorsements. Van Drivers must have a valid state issued driver’s  license. Diesel Mechanics must have a CDL license. Apply Tuesdays 9am – 3pm at 2322 S Throop Chicago, IL. Otherwise apply at 17727 Volbrecht Rd Lansing, IL Forman M ills is looking to fill the following seasonal positions: Cashier, Stock, Sales, Receiving and Loss Prevention. Evenings and weekends required. www.formanmills.com

December 3 rd , 2012 C H I Issue 122 T he C hristopher W atts Initiative

A T ime for T ransformation: A New Look for Returning Citizens

By: Christopher Watts, M B A Community & Career Builder

A returning citizen, commonly referred to as an ex-offender or convicted felon, is someone who is transitioning back into society as a law abiding and productive community member. It includes individuals that have been incarcerated and have lived outside the law. During this transition, returning citizens look to family, friends and community organizations for assistance, support and direction. Although all support and assistance is appreciated and needed, returning citizens must self-critique and work on him/herself to make the transition smoother by changing the negative perception of returning citizens in mainstream America. This is done when returning citizens embrace education and training. Returning citizens must embrace post-secondary education through participation in college, vocational trade and adult education programs. According to the Illinois Department of Corrections Annual Report FY 2010, 47% of offenders reported they completed high school, obtained a GED or have additional education beyond high school. Approximately 40% of offenders reported they have completed some high school. A more educated group can dispel the negative stereotype that returning citizens are not educated and need more training to perform a job successfully. Participation in post-secondary education programs will infuse returning citizens with the knowledge and skills necessary to be competitive with other candidates in our tough job market. This is also done by returning citizens becoming a part of their community. Returning citizens must become active in the community through community service and activism in causes that makes the world a better place. Community members only remember returning citizens from the illegal activities he/she has done. Community members may be hesitant to believe a person has transitioned from a societal menace to a productive citizen. Action is required so community members can gain a new understanding, thus changing the perception, of a returning citizen. Community service, such as volunteering at a local food pantry or on a community clean-up project, is the action a returning citizen must take to change the negative perception. Community activism, such as attendance at community meetings and organizing community activities for youth, is the action a returning citizen must take to change the negative perception. This is also done by changing the words that are used to describe and refer to returning citizens. Returning citizens must stop denigrating themselves and each other by demonstrating more selfrespect and support for each other. Returning citizens must take action to remove everyday negative terminology used to describe the group, such as ex-offender and convicted felon, by referring to one-self and each other as a returning citizen. Furthermore, returning citizens must stop glorifying and making jokes of prison and illegal life experiences. I commonly hear “I  remember when the prison was open and the inmates ran the prison,” “I did 7 calendars (years),”  “When I came up we used to…,” “I used to be in this gang and we had spots here,” etc. When a returning citizen speaks this way he/she is glorifying a past that was not glorious, mentioning it to get undeserving respect, or to unnecessarily intimidate someone. What a returning did in prison or a previous life experience should stay there--in the past. The topic of a returning citizen’s conversation should be on positive things.  

December 3 rd , 2012 C H I Issue 122 T he C hristopher W atts Initiative For returning citizens to have the smoothest possible transition into society, which requires unobstructed access to employment, education and housing, returning citizens must undergo a transformation to eliminate the negative stereotype and change the perception of the group.