Employment

Residents, with the exception of those in PennCAPP and Back On Track, are required to find employment within 15 days of their arrival to the program. Staff works with the residents to find jobs, coaching them through the process and helping them develop interview skills. Firetree develops relationships with local employers and employment agencies, encouraging them hire our residents. The article “Why Employ a Conewago Resident” profiles one of our local employers.

Why Employ a Conewago Resident article PDF

Early employment offers a number of benefits. Firetree facilitates direct payment of court costs, fines, and restitution by helping residents manage their earnings bringing them another step closer to meeting their legal obligations. Residents also pay a portion of their rent, a first step in fiscal responsibility. A savings plan, although not required, is strongly encouraged. Residents often leave the program able to pay the initial costs of obtaining housing in the community.

Leaving the program, residents have a recent job reference that is key to future employment. A less tangible benefit is the sense of pride and accomplishment that is gained by succeeding in this first important step toward building a better way of life.