Career Seeker Update 9.26.2023

Welcome to CWEE’s weekly update for program participants for the week of September 26, 2023

*Onsite Programming*

CWEE is located at 1175 Osage St. Denver, CO 80204 and our onsite office hours are Monday – Thursday 9am – 4pm.

  • CWEE will welcome new participants during onsite enrollments on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
  • In person Digital Skills Orientations will take place on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and virtual orientations will be held on Thursdays
  • Current GED Participants can attend in-person tutoring on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am to noon at CWEE or request tutoring over Zoom. Contact Jeanine at jlimonedraut@cwee.org for more details.
  • You can schedule a time to meet with your Program Advisor, TANF Specialist, or Employment Services Specialist in person at CWEE – Be sure to reach out to your CWEE Team to know what days they are in the office.

Please note, as we return to onsite programming, the health of our participants and staff is our top priority. If you are scheduled to come to CWEE and not feeling well please stay home and notify your Program Advisor.

Reminders

  • September timesheets are DUE this week on Friday, 9/29.
    • You will fill out your timesheet electronically here: https://forms.office.com/r/dU27adnQen
    • Click on the link above, fill out the details on the timesheet, and this will be submitted to your Specialist.
    • If you have any questions, please contact your TANF Specialist

CWEE Happenings

Join our team! CWEE is hiring! Click on the link below to learn more about our open position and how to apply.

If you have any questions, please email Elizabeth Robertson, Chief People Officer at erobertson@cwee.org

Community Resources

Find a detailed list of community resources in our Career Seeker portal.

Resources for Parents

  • My Spark Denver
    • My Spark Denver launched through the City of Denver and other partners to increase middle school participation in extracurricular activities like sports, music, and art.
    • Students who qualify for free or reduced lunch can apply and then receive a debit card with $1,000 to spend on the list of approved activities/providers.
    • Email info@mysparkdenver.org or visit https://mysparkdenver.org/ to apply today!
  • After School Programs
    • With a new school year upon us, the Office of Children’s Affairs’ Youth Program Locator can help you find afterschool programs to keep your kids safe, engaged, and active. There are hundreds of activities to fit any age or interest, many of which are free or low-cost. You can also locate additional resources that support the whole family. New programs and services are added often.
    • Click here to search for programs.
  • Clothes to Kids of Denver
    • This organization provides new and quality used clothing to students in the Denver Metro Area, FREE of charge. Eligibility requirements.
    • Click here to learn more and see if you qualify.
  • FREE – RTD Zero Fare for Youth
    • RTD will initiate a one-year pilot of a Zero Fare for Youth policy. Riders ages 19 and younger can use RTD at no cost from September 2023 through September 2024.
    • You can read more here.
  • I Matter Program
    • For parents: If you’ve noticed your kids are struggling with their mental health, the I Matter program can connect your children with a therapist for up to 6 free, confidential virtual counseling sessions (some in-person appointments available).
    • Sessions available in Spanish and English.
    • Visit IMatterColorado.org or  yoimportocolorado.org for more information.
  • Early Childhood Mental Health Support Link
    • The ECMH Support Line is a no-cost, confidential resource for any parent or professional in Colorado who cares for children under six.
  • BrightByText: Because Kids Don’t Come with Instructions
    • A resource for tips, activities and events based on your child’s age and your location.
  • WeeCyle: Mobile Baby Essentials
    • WeeCycle provides direct distributions of diapers, wipes, baby food, formula and more through our Mobile Baby Essentials program several times each week! Distributions are held throughout the Denver Metro area and beyond.
      • Most events are drive through (though there is always a walkup option)
      • Please stay in your vehicle, getting out during the distribution slows down the process.
      • No Documentation is required
      • All Items are given free of charge but not intended for resale
      • At each event we partner with food banks such as We Don’t Waste or Food Bank of the Rockies and there are often other partner organizations providing items as well.
      • Each event is First Come First Serve while supplies last.
      • Click here for more details and dates!
  • The Birth Squad: Perinatal Support Groups for mothers and birthing people in the Denver community
    • The Birth Squad offers two types of support groups in the Denver area and affinity support group spaces for Black and Latino/a moms and birthing people in English and Spanish.
    • Babies are welcome at both groups!

Other Resources

  • Career & Internship Fair
    • DHS SNAP to Success, in partnership with Struggle of Love Foundation and Families Forward Resource Center are hosting a Career & Internship Fair. Learn more about jobs and training opportunities in the community! Space is limited. Register Here.
    • When: Tuesday, Oct. 10 beginning at 4 p.m.
    • Where: The Montbelllo Community Building, 12000 E. 47th Ave Denver, CO 80239
  • JeffCO Public Schools – Hiring Event!
    • JeffCO Public Schools is hiring for Education Support Staff positions on the 27th from 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM at Arvada West High School.
    • See attached flyer. Please RSVP (scan QR code on the attached flyer) by September 25th.
  • Denver City Job Fair
    • This unique fair brings together a diverse range of city agencies, all under one roof, eager to hire talent like you. Whether you’re aiming to launch your career, advance, or explore new opportunities, this is an event to connect with city-wide agencies actively recruiting. Make valuable connections and explore various job openings. Register for FREE  
    • When: Wednesday, Sept 27th from 11:00am to 1:00pm
    • Where: Carla Madison Recreation Center located at 2401 East Colfax Ave Denver, CO 80206
  • Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
    • September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, an important time to raise awareness, remove stigmas, and provide education about suicide. Together, we can instill hope in each other, our loved ones, family, and coworkers.
    • If you or a loved one are struggling with thoughts of suicide, don’t hesitate to call or text 988 to access a team of mental health professionals 24 hours a day.
    • In Colorado, you may also call Colorado Crisis Services at 1-844-493-TALK (8255) or text “TALK” to 38255.
    • If you are interested in connecting to non-crisis mental health support for yourself or family, please reach out to any member of your CWEE support team for a referral.
  • Dept of Housing Stability – Resource Fairs
    • The Department of Housing Stability (HOST) and partners are hosting four FREE housing resource fairs! Learn about local housing programs and resources and connect with housing counseling agencies. Spanish interpretation and children’s activities will be available. Learn more here and see flyer.
    • Fairs will be held:
      • Saturday, September 30 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Athmar Rec Center
      • Saturday, October 7 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Barnum Rec Center
      • Saturday, October 21 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Johnson Rec Center
  • Register to Vote and Check on Your Voter Registration Early!
    • With elections this November make sure that you and your family and friends are registered to vote and that all your information is correct. It is important to make your voice heard by participating in both local and national elections!
    • Register to Vote or Update Your Registration Here!
  • County Work Opportunities
    • If you are looking for another way to support civic engagement while also getting paid and work experience, both Denver and Arapahoe County are hiring election judges! Election judges serve an important role in ensuring Denver’s elections are safe, secure, and accurate. All assignments are paid between $17.29 and $22 per hour. Election judges receive paid training from the Denver Elections Division and gain a wealth of knowledge about civic engagement and the electoral process. This is a great position for those looking for some additional income this Fall.
    • REQUIREMENTS to be an election judge include being a U.S. citizen, being registered to vote, passing a background check (specifically looking at previous election fraud), completing the training, and not having a family member on the ballot.
    • TO APPLY for Denver Elections: Fill out the Election Judge Interest Form, email poll.worker@denvergov.org, or call 720-865-4968.
  • DHA – Housing Choice Voucher
    • The Denver Housing Authority’s Housing Choice Voucher (formerly known as Section 8) will be open from September 21, 2023 12:01 a.m. through September 22, 2023 11:59 p.m. The subsidy pays a portion of the owners rent to make housing more affordable.
    • Interested individuals that meet the requirements can enter the HCV lottery pool by signing up on September 21 and 22.
    • Learn more here.

  • Denver Animal Shelter $20 Pet-Care Packages

    • Dog & Cat Owners – Discount for Denver County residents: Show your SNAP/EBT card and take advantage of a discounted pet-care package worth $60 – for the discounted price of $20. Learn more here.
  • Hands of the Carpenter
    • Hands of the Carpenter is running a promotion for Complimentary Oil Changes & Evaluations for single working moms.
    • Visit handsofthecarpenter.org > go to Get Help tab and scroll down to Complimentary Oil Changes and click on the link. Single moms need to fill out the form first before someone from our Automotive Services can call them to set up a time.
  • Double Up Food Bucks
    • The Double Up Food Bucks program doubles the value of federal nutrition (SNAP or food stamps) benefits spent at participating markets and food retail stores (up to $20 per visit), helping people bring home more healthy fruits and vegetables while supporting local farmers.
    • Text your zip code to 1-844-383-2399 for locations or call 720-573-3617.
    • Visit doubleupcolorado.org

Health Resources

  • Counseling Support
    • TherapyDirect is a new way to get the urgent counseling support you need with no insurance required. TherapyDirect offers same-day, online counseling to people in Colorado 18+. When you’re feeling down, anxious, or alone, or you just want to talk to someone who gets it, TherapyDirect lets you connect directly to a professional counselor in minutes. No appointments or scheduling – just hop on your phone, laptop, or tablet for a 100% secure and confidential video call. Insurance is not required, and there are no program fees. Individuals can receive up to three counseling sessions per year.
    • Available from your mental health experts at WellPower, Monday–Friday, 9am–5:30pm, at wellpower.org/therapydirect
    • Interpretation services on request.
  • Colorado’s Vaccine Sign-Up
    • Colorado’s vaccine clinics are up and running! There are many times and locations to choose from.
      • Click here to make an appointment at a clinic near you!
      • Click here to learn about the vaccines being offered
  • Keeping Denver Safe
    • Substance misuse and overdose are an increasing community health concern across the city of Denver. To support the safety of our community, Denver residents can order Fentanyl testing strips and Naxolone (Narcan) using the form available at this link.

Technology Resources

  • Denver Public Library: Low Cost Tech Support
    • The Denver public library has free and low-cost technology resources! They include:
      • Free in-person and virtual tech support
      • Print, copy, scan, and fax (100 pages per day, per person)
      • Click here for details and for a list of technology resources compiled by the Denver Public Library
  • Lifeline Benefit – FREE Smartphone as well as Unlimited Talk, Text, and Data
    • For any person currently receiving Food Stamps, Medicaid or is considered Low Income
    • Where/When: You can pick up a phone at their office at 3737 W Colfax Ave Monday – Friday from 10am-5pm
      • There are also tent locations set up Monday-Friday from 10am-5pm at St Francis, The Stout Street Clinic, 14th and Federal and Colfax/Broadway where you can also receive this benefit.
    • All you need to bring is your state ID
  • The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
    • An FCC program that helps connect families and households struggling to afford internet service.
    • The ACP provides:
      • Up to $30/month discount for broadband service;
      • A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet.
      • Click here to apply
      • Flyer attached
    • The ACP and Comcast: How Comcast’s Internet Essentials program can help
        • For households choosing Comcast’s Internet Essentials program, ACP will cover the full monthly cost of their internet service and can also be used towards Xfinitiy Mobile
        • Additional details are available on the Internet Essentials website and in the attached flyers
        • New and existing Xfinity Internet or Internet Essentials customers can visit www.xfinity.com/acp or call 844-389-4681 for more information, to determine eligibility, and sign up.

Legal Resources

  • Free Legal Resources at the Denver County Courthouse
    • For support with rental payments, there are free attorneys, Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) navigation and resource assistance available at the Denver County Courthouse (1437 Bannock St.), Room 163 on weekday mornings from 8 a.m. – noon.
    • Click here for more information
  • Do you have an outstanding Denver case you want to resolve?
    • If you or someone you know has an open Denver city case, like trespassing, alcohol consumption, or park violations, please support them by getting to Denver Rescue Mission on the 2nd Wednesday of the month for the potential to resolve their case.
      • Outreach Court is the 2nd Wednesday of every month at the Denver Rescue Mission!
        • 7:30 am: Check-in
        • 8:00 am – 9:00 am: Meet with your attorney
        • 9:00 am: Court begins
    • Questions? Contact: Lynn Unger, LCSW | Programs Manager, Denver County Court | 720.337.026 | lynn.unger@denvercountycourt.org.
  • Denver Human Services offers a monthly, free legal clinic to help you navigate the why and how of going to court.
    • An attorney will be available to answer questions and provide information on family law and court issues including: child support, modifications, visitation, parenting time, custody, contempt citations (family law only), and any other family law and court issues.
    • Click here to register

Energy Resources

  • Summer Energy Assistance
    • Denver County Residents: Get help paying your Xcel Energy Bill or your home HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) repair.
    • Applications are open July 1 – September 30, 2023. Income limits apply. Learn more or apply here.
    • If you are not a current Denver County resident, visit 211.org or findhelp.org
  • Do you know someone who needs help paying water bills?
    • Check out the Low-Income Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)! This information will be included in water bills in January in English and Spanish. More info is online related to LIHWAP in partnership with Mile High United Way.
    • Denver Water understands times have been tough. The Low-Income Housing Water Assistance Program can help customers who qualify. Learn more at Colorado Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) for qualifications and requirements to get help.
  • To find out more information on these programs, talk with your Specialist at CWEE.

Entertainment

  • Do You Love Reading?
    • Book Give Denver is a local nonprofit who believes every person throughout metro Denver should have access to free books—books you can keep and own. Books for all ages. Books in every genre. All free. Learn more here.
    • When: Tue, Wed, Fri, & Sat – Hours 9:00am to 12:00pm
    • Where: Book Give Service Station located at 4890 Lowell Blvd Denver, CO 80221

Need more support?

You can always contact your Program Advisor.

For resources for food, rent assistance, clothing, and more click here.

You can also call 2-1-1 at any time to talk to someone who can connect you to more resources.

CWEE Contact Information

Click here for a full list of contacts at CWEE, phone numbers, and email addresses.

 

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