Ready for Hire Program empowers high school students with real-world skills

The Ready for Hire summer program is preparing high school students for their careers and future independence through a mix of on-site learning and community activities.

Over the past few weeks, participants have explored various aspects of the downtown Mansfield area while growing their confidence in numerous practical and life skills essential for career readiness.

The program is a collaborative initiative between Richland Newhope Industries, the Richland County Board of Developmental Disabilities (Richland Newhope) and the Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center. Its curriculum is designed to equip students with skills for the workplace and beyond. Key components include career exploration; money management; restaurant etiquette; basic first aid and CPR; driver’s permit test preparation; public transportation usage, and navigating essential household tasks for personal independence.

The program includes community engagement activities that provide real-world context to the skills students have learned. Local business visits have included Treeders, a small business owned by Tammi Black. Though visually impaired and living with cerebral palsy, Black has successfully run Treeders for 17 years. She shared her inspiring story and challenges with the students, encouraging them to pursue their goals diligently.

Time spent with a deputy sheriff offered insights into law enforcement careers, the importance of situational awareness and de-escalation techniques. Students were excited to explore a patrol car, adding a practical dimension to the learning experience. First aid and CPR training sessions saw the participants practicing chest compressions, using an AED simulator and learning how to administer an EpiPen. The importance of Ohio’s “critical” jobs in health care was highlighted.

The program also integrates practical experiences like dining out to support the development of social skills. After their morning with the deputy sheriff, the students had lunch at Coney Island, where they practiced budgeting, table manners and tipping. These experiences are crucial for developing professionalism and confidence in social settings. Cooking, one of the program’s highlights, significantly increases teens' independence and confidence. RNI job coaches guide the group in making healthy recipes, emphasizing the importance of following instructions and teamwork.

Students also engage in activities designed to enhance their soft skills and creativity, such as collaborative games; exploring the library for research and information literacy; visiting Richland Carrousel Park to understand local business operations; taking art classes to foster creativity and problem-solving, and participating in a variety of other activities utilizing the newly designed reading and game space to develop teamwork and strategic thinking skills.