The May Howard Community Project
Organizational History and Summary
The May Howard Community Project was established in February 2013 to provide community resources and educational opportunities to the residents of Greater Cleveland. The organization began by offering basic computer literacy and expanded to financial literacy and employment readiness. The May Howard Community Project has also as
sisted community members with obtaining and navigating through available community resources with the establishment of our telephone helpline and community resource fairs. In 2014, The May Howard Community Project and its founder Karyn Alexis was selected to receive The Community Service Award from Ward 2 and Union Miles Development Corporation for the organization’s hard work and service to the residents of their community. The May Howard Community Project has established strong collaborative relationships with organizations such as Union Miles Development Corporation, K.N.O.W.L.E.D.G.E. Youth Organization, Single Parents United, Concerned Citizens Organized Against Lead and H.O.M.E.. Through our community service we have provided classes and workshops for Beech Brook, and YMCA’s Y-Haven Program. In addition to our educational services, our organization works in association with the Ohio Benefit Bank to provide application assistance for public benefits including SNAP (food assistance), WIC, medicaid/medicare and SSI/SSDI. Moving forward in 2014, The May Howard Community Project will launch its Workforce Development Program. The program’s goal is to empower participants while providing the necessary tools to conduct an effective job search and maintain a healthy financial lifestyle. Goal / Vision
The May Howard Community Project goal is to provide the necessary supportive services to remove many of life’s barriers for residents. We aim to provide a workable foundation for community members to have and sustain a productive life. We believe accessibility to available community resources and opportunities are the keys to a positive and productive life. Program And Services
Community Navigation
Our team of Community Navigators and Case Managers will work with residents in assessing and addressing the individuals or families needs. Through a brief intake we will help the resident with obtaining the needed assistance for their current situation. The navigation team will also assist in application completion and program enrollment as needed. Workforce Development
The Workforce Development Program purpose is to prepare the jobseeker with the necessary knowledge and skills for seeking and obtaining gainful employment. The program consist of Computer Literacy, Financial Literacy/Management, and Employment Readiness and Sustainability workshops, classes, and seminars. Basic Computer Literacy classes will cover the basics in computer usage and navigation. To further prepare the job seeker, we offer Employment Readiness and Sustainability workshops. In these workshops, participants learn how to create an effective resume and cover letter, successfully complete an interview and learn important employment soft skills and ethics. Financial Literacy and Management will also be offered to guide residents to building a stronger financial foundation and path while learning more about available financial opportunities and budgeting. As an extension to our Financial Literacy and Management, our organization offers budget coaching to residents and program participants. Community Fairs
The May Howard Community Project will continue to organize community events such as Resource and Job Fairs. These events will help bring resources to the neighborhoods and make residents more aware of available opportunities and resources in the Greater Cleveland Area. The events gives attendees the opportunity to engage one on one with service providers and employers. Community Helpline
The May Howard Community Project has established a community helpline for community members to gain access to resources and programs. Residents can reach a Community Navigator by calling (216) 395-7MAY for assistance. Community Resource Guide
The organization will distribute a community resource guide. This guide will feature available resources, programs, and servicing organizations along with informative community articles. The guide will be supported and sponsored by area businesses and members. To contact the organization or to inquire about program participation or volunteering:
Call us (216) 395-7MAY or email us [email protected]
