What We Do
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Academy for Human Service Training (AHST) is a comprehensive 15-week program that trains individuals for direct-care, entry-level positions in the Human Services field. Graduates of the program become Direct Support Professionals for children or adults with disabilities in residential and community experience programs, Job Coaches for community-based worksites, and Support Staff in behavioral health services.
Our competency-based curriculum provides broad-based exposure, education, and experience in many areas of Human Services with a focus on Developmental Disabilities and Customer Service. A theoretical classroom approach combined with an internship gives students invaluable practical experience in the field.
Students graduate with a wide range of skills and industry-recognized certifications such as Adult & Pediatric CPR and PMT (Physical & Psychological Management Training). At the end of the session, students are required to complete the National Customer Service Assessment in order to obtain the National Professional Certification in Customer Service.
Knowing oneself is a prerequisite to working effectively with others so the program fosters the student’s ability to better understand themselves while promoting greater awareness of personal strengths.
The AHST has ongoing open enrollment, so new students can join the program at the beginning of any week in the class cycle. Class hours are typically 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday but can be flexible to meet the needs of the students.
Applicant Criteria:
- 18 years of age or older
- High School Diploma or GED
- Valid CT Driver’s License or eligible to obtain one with assistance while in the program
- No drug-related or felony convictions within the past ten years
- Participation in the pre-admission review
- Ability to commit to the entire training program
- Availability for full-time employment upon completion of program
- Ability to meet additional guidelines determined by our funding sources
Geographic Areas Covered: AHST sites are located in Bridgeport and Waterbury, Connecticut. Students may attend from any city or town as long as their local workforce investment board or other funding source approves one of these training locations.
For Pathways to Referral and More Information, Contact:
Rachel Lombardozzi
Program Director
Phone: (203) 389-2970 ext. 1042
Fax: (203) 397-0658
rlombardozzi@marrakechinc.org
Need a Job?
- Are you at least 18?
- Have a High School Diploma or GED?
- Have or are eligible for a CT Drivers License?
- Want to work with people?
- Willing to work full-time?
If you answered yes, you could qualify for Human Services training at NO COST!
Student Support Services: Each student works with the AHST team, who facilitates the group process and helps with problem-solving skills, diversity, teamwork, and self-esteem. The team provides students with information and resources to build self-sufficiency so that they may acquire skills to effectively take an active role in their successes. Motivation and general etiquette are developed as students move toward the workforce. Also, the AHST team keeps an “open door” policy to help ensure a successful transition to the workplace.
Students receive assistance with obtaining employment at the conclusion of the program and a minimum of six months of follow-up services to support acquiring and maintaining employment. Job placement is based on the area of interest expressed by the student.
Internships: Internship placement is guided by areas of interest identified by the student and can include group homes or residential programs, day programs or community-based programs, and other customer-centered positions to gain experience and practical training. Internship placement (240 hours) provides an opportunity for students to incorporate classroom theory into work situations.
While under the supervision and support of the internship supervisor, students develop a Human Service ethic. Punctuality, attitude, performance, and reliability are addressed as are a number of important characteristics cultivated to facilitate success in the field.
Information Sessions
Every Tuesday & Thursday at 3:30pm via Zoom.
No appointment required.
Please complete the contact form below for the link to attend.
