Contact: Ellen Bank

843.792.2626

Jan. 31, 2002

Tenth IAW Class To Graduate

CHARLESTON, SC -- The tenth class of Innovative Alternatives for Women will graduate February 1 at 1 p.m. at Zion Olivet Presbyterian Church at 134 Cannon St.

The program, sponsored by the Medical University of South Carolina College of Nursing and Zion Olivet Presbyterian Church, is an occupational skills and health information training center designed to assist low income, unemployed or underemployed women in their transition to the workforce. The program uses a holistic approach that incorporates job training, financial management techniques, health information, parenting education, legal assistance, nutritional education, violence reduction techniques, and business and social etiquette into a 12-week curriculum. While job placement at the completion of the program is not guaranteed, Innovative Alternatives for Women is in partnerships with area businesses who are committed to helping graduates find employment. All Innovative Alternatives for Women services are free of charge.

Eighty-five percent of the graduates remain employed one year after graduation and twenty-five percent are enrolled in college. The next class will begin in April. For more information call: 723-8150.

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