WorkExpress engages in several work activities. These activities include commercial cleaning, apartment turnover, painting, graffiti removal, Brockton city trash disposal, and landscaping. The crew supervisor teaches the skills required for these tasks. For example, the crew supervisor teaches appropriate painting techniques, how to safely use chemicals and equipment required for graffiti removal, how to safely lift various objects, how to clean restrooms, floors, and appliances and which chemicals to use, and the crew supervisor teaches and regularly reviews all of the safety measures related to COVID-19. Those measures include hand washing, use of PPE, social distancing, disinfecting vehicles after use, etc. Participants are given access to computers if needed.
Participants are provided assistance in creating email accounts and resumes. Interviewing skills are taught as well as how to participate in job fairs. Assistance is provided for the job search and application process.
WorkExpress participants are provided case management support from a dedicated case manager and on the job skills training from a dedicated crew supervisor. Access to other Father Bill's & MainSpring staff is also provided. Many participants have been out of work for a very long time and need to learn/relearn soft skills. Soft skills include learning to be prompt, appropriate hygiene and dress, and learning how to appropriately interact with co-workers, staff, customers, and the public. Participants also learn how to record hours worked into the ADP program. Case management also includes teaching how to access resources for medical, mental health, and substance abuse care. The case manager also helps the participants stay on top of important matters such Mass Health, SNAP, banking, and legal concerns. Also case management assists in applying for various public and private grants for housing and connecting with potential landlords.
