Work and Family

Photo Credit: Google Public Domain Images: mommd.com
Balancing work and family is difficult regardless of whether you are single parent or have a partner to share the responsibility of a child.  Some things to consider BEFORE taking a position are:
  • What family benefits does the company have in place?
  • Do they have daycare onsite or do you have to find a daycare provider?
  • Do they allow employees to work from home if a child is sick?
  • What kind of health insurance do they provide for families?
  • What is the company's Maternity/Paternity Leave policy? 
Finding the answers to these questions before beginning a new job will help to keep unwanted surprises down to a minimum. 
Once you are working, these are some tips on how to create a balance at home.
  •  Stop trying to make things perfect.  This eats up your energy and causes unneeded stress.
  • Take time out to exercise and/or meditate.  Taking a walk with your kids, riding a bike around the neighborhood or even dancing to your favorite music can help you de-stress quickly!
  • Unplug!  Turn off the phone, the computer, and other electronic devices that can distract you from spending time with your family.
These are just a few ideas to help you balance family and work. For further ideas go to: 

Transition to College and Career

 
Photo Credit: Google Public Domain Images
 
Want to start a career? Have you been thinking about college, but don't know if you are ready, yet?
 
Holyoke Community College has a program, Transition to College and Careers (TCC), which helps students be "ready, confident and successful."
 
TCC is a FREE college prep class for adults.  In the TCC program, you will build your proficiency in math, reading and writing skills as well as study strategies and computer skills.  TCC is a supportive community in which the learning environment enables students to succeed.  Students are supported in identifying career pathways and navigating the college admissions process.
 
Applicants to TCC  must be:
  • 18 + years old
  • have a GED or HiSET  - OR
  • have a high school diploma from at least 4 years ago
  • plan to complete a certificate or degree program
The next class will begin in January, so contact  
Mary Martone (413-552-2245  mmartone@cepholyoke.org) or  
Marie Troppe (413-552-2728  mtroppe@hcc.edu
now if you are interested in joining TCC.