Michigan Works is offering Benton Harbor residents a chance to get free training to prepare them for a career in healthcare.
Chief Marketing Officer Mary Morphey tells us thanks to a grant, the agency can offer a 12-week training program for those interested in a career as a community healthcare worker, with a focus on behavioral health.
“Individuals will take part in the training will leave with a certification, actually two of them,” Morphey said. “So, you’ll leave with two credentials with connections to employers in southwest Michigan. The bigger piece here is you’re getting first hand knowledge and industry experience.”
The program aims to help jobseekers gain two in-demand healthcare credentials and jumpstart a career in healthcare. Morphey says it will certify those who complete it as community health workers with a micro-credential in behavioral health. That could be a steppingstone to further education or to a career.
Why did Michigan Works want to offer such a program?
“It’s based on a need. There’s a big need for healthcare workers, not just the state of Michigan, but in southwest Michigan as well.”
Morphey says this is only open to those who live in the 49022 zip code, are 18 years or older, have a high school diploma or GED, and a clean criminal record.
Spaces are limited, so anyone interested should register to attend an information session set for December 7.
