CINCINNATI WORKS INC

By addressing the multiple concerns and needs of Members and Employer Partners, Cincinnati Works is able to eliminate barriers to attaining long-term employment and, ultimately, economic self-sufficiency. This approach respects the dignity of the Members while building them up to become genuinely responsible for themselves, equipped with the necessary internal strengths and external support systems.

The short-term goal for the unemployed is to help them stabilize in a job that pays $12.00 - $15.00 (or more) per hour with health benefits.

The long-term goal for the underemployed is for them to earn 200% of the federal poverty guidelines and move to economic self-sufficiency.

Through research, study, and experience, we have developed a model that includes job readiness, placement, retention, and advancement, not simply job placement. We provide ongoing 1-on-1 coaching tailored to the specific needs and goals of each Member, complemented by support services such as legal coordination, transportation assistance, behavioral health counseling and chaplain services. We understand that a job is just the beginning, and our Members’ challenges do not end when the first paycheck arrives.

In recent years, we launched Workforce Connection, a suite of services for local employers to build and develop their frontline workforce, taking advantage of the expertise we have built over 25+ years. In addition to placing Members with local employers, we contract with employers to hire for frontline positions and we have placed Cincinnati Works coaches on-site at employers such as Gorilla Glue, Graeter’s, JTM and Kutol Products.

Our office is in downtown Cincinnati, but our presence is much wider. We have invested in technology and partnerships that allow our Members and coaches to connect virtually when they can’t connect in-person. For those who are able to make it downtown, we have a renovated Member Suite with the space, technology and staff support to help our Members shine.

Using a holistic approach, the organization offers its Members lifetime access to Employer Partners while providing them with comprehensive support services including one-one-one employment coaching, legal advocacy, transportation assistance, and guidance in financial literacy. Partnerships with other organizations in the community to enhance these services and further help Cincinnati Works Members overcome barriers to employment such as an inability to secure affordable, quality childcare; legal issues; lack of transportation; debt and other credit issues.

Analysis by the University of Cincinnati Economics Center shows that Cincinnati Works has delivered more than $150 million in economic benefits since our founding in 1996, between income generated by our Members and a reduced use of public services. Some Members have benefited directly from services our coaches and staff provide; others benefited more from the connections we facilitated. Our mission with each act is to make it easier for them to get a job, get to the job, and be their best on the job. We help stabilize families and allow talent to flourish, so businesses can grow and communities can thrive.