Jobs
La Colaborativa provides the full range of supports needed to get our community working and on their way to financial independence. We offer holistic workforce development pathways for youth and adults, ages 14 – 60.
In response to the economic impacts of the pandemic, we developed a rapid re-employment model to address widespread unemployment and underemployment in our community. Program components offer a cohesive and holistic pipeline for individuals to build basic work readiness skills, improve English fluency, access education and training opportunities, apply for jobs, start their own businesses, network with employers and clients, and get back to work quickly.
Two thirds of Chelsea residents reported job losses or lost income because of the pandemic. This figure includes undocumented workers, day laborers, and other “gig” workers, and is well above the local and national estimates of Latinx job loss. Many of our members rely on the food, travel, and hospitality industries, which have been devastated by the pandemic with no clear pathway to recovery.
The majority of activities are currently virtual due to public health and social distancing guidelines. La Colaborativa has a laptop lending program to ensure interested participants have access to technology needed to participate. We look forward to resuming in-person programming when it is safe to do so!
Current Jobs Programs
Job Readiness Workshops
Job readiness trainings are offered weekly and prepare jobseekers to submit successful employment applications, transition into new work opportunities, and remain stably employed. Training topics include resume writing clinics, mock interviews, job research training, and how to apply. Other trainings focus on building teamwork, effective communication, problem-solving, work ethic, flexibility/adaptability, and interpersonal skills. All trainings are currently being offered virtually.
Worker-Owned Co-Ops
La Colaborativa supports workers and entrepreneurs to organize and form worker-owned cooperatives which are equally owned and governed by employees, who also earn money from the profits of their labor. Co-ops are a powerful tool to uplift workers from minimum wage jobs in profitable industries, where business owners take home most of the profits. La Colaborativa connects co-ops to legal and financial technical assistance, marketing support, and connections to industries. Current co-ops that are up and running are in the Cleaning, Landscaping, Tailoring, Construction, and Childcare industries.
Job Coaching & Placement
Job coaches help members define and pursue next steps on their job pathways, through resume reviews, job opportunity research, application support, and introductions to employers. Job coaching and placement services are by appointment only.
English Classes
La Colaborativa currently offers virtual English classes at the beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels in partnership with Harvard University’s Phillips Brooks House Association (PBHA). Our classes are free, culturally relevant, and focused on English language skills for the workplace and economic advancement.
Computer Classes
In partnership with Tech Goes Home, La Colaborativa offers computer classes for members to build technology skills needed to successfully research, apply for, and perform many jobs in today’s market. Classes meet for 14 hours over a 2-week period and upon successful completion, students receive a Google Chromebook.
Citizenship Pathways
U.S. citizenship can open doors to jobs and economic advancement for immigrants. To support members on their pathways to citizenship, La Colaborativa offers citizenship classes, consultations, support with paperwork, and referrals to legal aid.
Jobs News
Carpentry Apprenticeship Program Kickoff
Our Carpentry Apprenticeship Program has officially started! A group of local up and coming carpenters made their way to Dorchester to begin learning the trade with our friends at the Carpenter’s Union. In the coming weeks, these newly minted apprentices will gain...
The Art of Activism: Two Local Women of Color Take on COVID-19 and Racial Violence
Executive Director Gladys Vega joined activist Monica Cannon-Grant, founder of Violence in Boston, and Under the Radar Host Callie Crossley to talk about how they've harnessed the power of local activism and on-the-ground organizing to raise their communities up and...
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