The IRC’s POWERPLUS program, which is led by the IRC in NY’s Economic Empowerment program, prepares female-identifying participants to overcome barriers to upward economic mobility by offering intensive one-on-one technical assistance.  

Participants receive support in the necessary training, licenses, credentials, and certificates in three tracks: childcare, case management, and individualized coaching.  

Hear from one client who was part of the spring 2022 childcare cohort:  

“My mother was an educator and my first inspiration to become an educator. During these two months, I have taken critical classes such as CPR and childcare courses that prepared me for my new role as an assistant teacher. Now, I rotate helping daycares and schools to provide childcare and learning services. I am happy about this opportunity and hope to grow even more!

“My mother was an educator and my first inspiration to become an educator. During these two months, I have taken critical classes such as CPR and childcare courses that prepared me for my new role as an assistant teacher. Now, I rotate helping daycares and schools to provide childcare and learning services. I am happy about this opportunity and hope to grow even more!  

POWER PLUS helped me sharpen my vocational and professional English language skills. I was able to create a resume and cover letter that I was proud of. Our IRC career specialist is amazing, helping me to understand the job application portal and gain key networking skills. This boosted my confidence.   

Before POWER PLUS, I struggled to find a job. My husband was the main financial contributor and now I am supporting our family to cover key expenses. It feels great to provide a better quality of life for my family and to lead as an example for my son.” 

This participant is one of many in this year spring’s cohort who thrived in the program!  

As echoed, the POWER PLUS program ensures female-identifying participants have access to a community and network that is invaluable for job training and future placement.  

Participants receive a variety of additional services including: 

•Assistance in accessing social service supports 

•Advanced career development training (computer courses, soft skills development, financial literacy, business courses, and cohort-specific continuing education) 

•Community and Networking events 

•Continued one-on-one career and financial coaching following employment placement 

•Integrated Mental Health modules: stress management, connecting to mental health providers, wellness groups 

The IRC in NY is thrilled to connect participants to specialized career-building programs, helping them thrive in their economic mobility and professional goals.