EmploymentEmployment

Employment Resources

Community Servings – Teaching Kitchen
Address: 179 Armory St. Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
Phone: 617-522-7777 | Fax: 617-657-1915
Email: teachingkitchen@servings.org
Service Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9am-4pm (arrive no later than 8:45am each day). No formal classes are held on Fridays, but trainees are welcome to complete additional, voluntary culinary internship hours.
Requirements & Restrictions: Must be a citizen or be legally registered. Proficiency in English. High school diploma/GED/HiSET not required. CORI friendly; not SORI friendly.
Waiting Time: New classes starting every 6 to 7 weeks. Rolling admission process- apply anytime and have an acceptance decision within 1-2 weeks.
Services: The Teaching Kitchen offers a job training program that consists of a 12-week curriculum covering all factors of working in a professional kitchen. This includes food safety, nutrition, knife skills, quality food preparation, and SERVsafe certification. Trainees learn by completing daily hands-on classes with a chef instructor, as well as through participation in a culinary internship in the Community Servings kitchen, where over 3,000 meals are made from scratch each day.
The program also includes job readiness classes, resume writing, mock interviews, digital and financial literacy, and one year of job placement and job retention support for all graduates.

Community Work Services (CWS)
Address: 174 Portland Street #2 Boston, MA 02114
Phone: 617-720-2233 | Fax: 617-367-4759
Website: https://cwsnewengland.org/
Service Hours: Office and Program Hours, Monday through Friday, 8am to 4:00pm
Requirements & Restrictions: All of CWS services have specific eligibility requirements. Interested candidates are encouraged to attend an agency tour to learn more about the program and their requirements. Tours are held year-round,
every Wednesday at 1pm. Reservations are not required.
Languages: English, Spanish
Description: Founded in 1877, CWS helps people who face barriers to work obtain employment and achieve greater self-sufficiency through innovative job training, placement, and support services.
Services include the following programs –
• Education: The Career Design School – Total Facilities Management (offered at Boston Location), Warehouse and Fulfillment, Job Readiness Program, Hospitality, and At Your Service- Hotel Training (Certificate Program), Culinary Training Program, and Get Ready! (Offered at Boston Location).
• Economic Development – Food Service & Catering, Mailroom Operation Services and Packaging and Fulfillment Center
• Occupational Health – CWS has a long history of serving people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) & delivering innovative services designed to help them achieve their greatest potential
• Workforce Development – Work Readiness, Job Placement, Post-Placement, Case Management and Legal Assistance & Benefits Counseling

Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation
Address: 594 Columbia Road Dorchester, MA 02125
Phone (General): 617-825-4200 | Phone (Referrals): 617-825-4200 x574 | Fax: 617-825-3522
Website: https://www.dbedc.org/
Service Hours: Please call for an appointment at 617-533-9575
Requirements & Restrictions: Clients do not need a CORI to access services.
Description: Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation runs a number of economic development programs, including a Reentry Program for returning citizens and the Workforce Development Program. These programs are available to Boston residents, and they offer individualized job pre-and-post job counseling and placement and job skill-building opportunities. Reentry Program Participants can start in the program while in prison and continue after release with
case management or come through different avenues. Guidance is offered with educational and employment goals, weekly support groups, and assistance with personal needs such as probation officer relationships and family/community
relationships.
Services: can include job readiness programs, resume writing help, and a GED preparedness course. Referrals are made on a case-by-case basis. Update: Currently remodeling their building and have a temporary location at 572 Columbia
Road, Dorchester. It is best to call and contact them before coming to the office. Doing meetings on zoom, on the phone, and in-person.

House of Hope, Inc. – Learn2Work
Address: 12 Merrimack St Lowell, MA 01854
Phone: 978-458-2870
Email: info@houseofhopelowell.org
Website: https://houseofhopelowell.org/
Description: Understanding the need to empower homeless parents with essential employment skills, a positive employment experience, and an increased sense of self-worth to serve as the foundation for long-term employment stability, we developed the Learn2Work Program, which provides a supportive work environment that encourages participants to successfully support their family and make a difference in their community.
Services: The Learn2Work Program also provides “soft-skills training” (such as communication and interpersonal skills) and job-placement support to every intern. Interns gain job-skills in a supportive work environment (either retail or culinary) that empowers them to implement personal career plans and work through employment issues that are the basis for any employment success. The goal of the Learn2Work Program is to provide a supportive work environment that ignites the desire within each intern to successfully support their family and make a difference in their community.
• Interns discover that work is valuable, work allows them to give back to society, and it builds their self-esteem. We have learned that our internships can literally transform our intern’s relationship to work. The families who are living in our shelters will be the source of the 25-35 interns per year who will gain real world experience as they operate our retail store and prepare and serve our meals as they Learn2Work! (Learn2Work includes two initiatives: the Hope Chest Retail Program and a Culinary Skills Program.)

iCater Job Training Program at Pine Street Inn
Address: 444 Harrison Ave Boston, MA 02118
Phone: 617-892-7775
Email: wfd@pinestreetinn.org
Website: www.pinestreetinn.org/programs/workforce-development
Who to Contact: Workforce Development Team
Service Hours: General inquiries: 9am-5pm, Monday through Friday. Actual training program hours vary, with trainees beginning the program at a part-time schedule and moving to a full-time schedule after eight weeks.
Requirements & Restrictions: This is a referral-based program; applications must be submitted by a case manager, clinician, or other provider. Applicants must be able to stand for long periods, bend, and lift up to 25 lbs. Additionally, applicants who have a history of SUD must have achieved at least 60 days of sobriety by the time of their enrollment. Because this program includes paid employment, applicants must submit proof of ID and work authorization to satisfy
the I-9 form.
Waiting Time: They have an orientation every eight weeks.
Languages: Trainees must be able to use English proficiently in standard workplace situations as well as receive instructions and feedback from supervisors.
Description: Exciting opportunity to gain skills, earn income and join a supportive community. The Workforce Development department at Pine Street Inn runs two paid job training programs: iCater (food services) and iLaundry (housekeeping).
The program orientation is every eight weeks, and the programs last between four and six months. This is a referral-based program—applicants can ask a case manager or clinician to help them apply. The program has Job Placement Specialists and a Stabilization Specialist to help you continue your employment journey even after the program ends. 

InnerCity Weightlifting (ICW)
Address: P.O. Box 171313 Boston, MA 02117
Phone: 617-714-4529
Email: ralphc@innercityweightlifting.org
Website: www.innercityweightlifting.org
Service Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9am to 5pm, Friday, 9am to 2pm (Hours may vary)
Requirements & Restrictions: Prioritize individuals who have been referred by courts, jails/prisons, and organizations but is willing to help any individual who has been a victim/perpetrator of gun violence.
Description: ICW offers their students the opportunity to learn a valuable skillset, personal training, and this experience allows students to meet clients from opposite socio-economic backgrounds, build an invaluable network, all while making a stable living. ICW also offers a case management program where they give their students the opportunity to become ready for employment through resume workshops, mock interviews, housing assistance, and more.

Just-A-Start Corporation
Address: 1035 Cambridge Street #12 Cambridge, MA 02141 | Other Locations: 1175 Cambridge St. Cambridge
Phone (Main Office): 617-494-0444 | Phone: (Cambridge Office) 617-242-1460 | Fax: 617-494-8348
Email: contact@justastart.org
Website: www.justastart.org
Requirements & Restrictions: Bring your Social Security card, birth certificate and proof of address.
Services: Provides affordable housing, education, training, community engagement, and supportive services –
• Cambridge Biomedical Careers Program – Free 9-month training program (September–May) prepares participants for entry-level jobs in the biotechnology, life sciences, and medical research industries. Laboratory training is done in partnership with Bunker Hill Community College. After graduation, students receive follow up services for up to one year, until they are placed in relevant employment. Applications are accepted April through August. Eligibility
requirements include: a GED or HS diploma, Massachusetts residency (primarily Cambridge, Boston, and Metro North), income eligibility, age 18+, and good reading and math skills. (Contact: 617-918-7520)
• Information Technology Careers Program – Free educational and career skills training program that prepares individuals for Computer User Support Specialist positions in any business environment. Module students are able to obtain stackable industry recognized credentials and certificates (i.e. CompTIA, CompTIA A+, etc.)
• YouthBuild/Just-A-Start – A comprehensive youth development program for 16- to 24-year-olds out of school that provides education leading to grade level increases and credential attainment (high school diploma or HiSET/GED); career exploration and employment skills building (with a construction/facilities maintenance and/or healthcare focus); and leadership and life skills training. Through their housing community service work experience, youth gain occupational skills leading to HBI PACT and OSHA certificates (industry recognized credentials), in addition to applied academic skills and leadership development. JAS YouthBuild also provides comprehensive guidance, counseling, case management, and support services. Youth who complete the program transition to employment, training, and/or college and receive intensive follow-up support for at least one year, with additional support
beyond. (Contact: youthbuild@justastart.org or 617-918-7506)
• Home Improvement Programs – Provides assistance managing home improvement projects and helps
homeowners, condominium associations, and landlords secure financing. JAS’s Rehab specialists guide clients through the process, from application to completion. (Contact: 617-918-7514)
• Homeowner Services – AS offers an array of services to meet the ongoing needs of low- and moderate-income homeowners in Cambridge. Services include technical assistance with property maintenance and repair; advice for condominium association finances, management, and compliance; education and training courses; and leadership development for condominium associations. (Contact: 617-918-7514)
• Real Estate Development Projects – Just-A-Start (JAS) develops and owns affordable apartments that allow low- and moderate-income residents to live in Cambridge at rents within their means. JAS currently owns nearly 600 units and has partnered with Maloney Properties and Wingate to provide the portfolio with professionalmmanagement. If you are interested in affordable rentals in Cambridge, please contact Maloney Properties and Wingate for more information.
• Mediation/Conflict Resolution – To avoid evictions and/or homelessness, Just-A-Start (JAS) professionals mediate and help resolve disputes between tenants, landlords/homeowners by creating a safe, neutral forum in which meaningful dialogue can occur. Mediation allows parties to understand each other’s perspectives, explore options, and come up with a resolution that everyone feels comfortable moving forward with. For qualifying cases, JAS professionals also provide mediation to resolve consumer disputes referred through district courts or the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office. (Contact: 617-918-7518)

MassHire Boston Career Center
Address: 1010 Harrison Avenue Boston, MA 02119
Phone: 617-541-1400
Email: contact@masshirebostoncareerctr.org
Website: www.masshirebostoncareerctr.org
Service Hours: (Office) Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Program hours vary.
Description: MassHire Boston Career Center aims to provide state-of-the-art services that successfully connect business and job seekers of Greater Boston. MassHire offers job seeker resources, events, and workshops.

Bridges Returning Citizen Center

186 Alewife Brook Parkway, Suite 310 , Cambridge, ma 02138

Phone: 617-468-8918

bsherman@mhmncc.com

Website: https://masshiremncareers.com/jobseekers/#brcc

New England Culinary Arts Training
Address: 23 Bradston Street 2nd Floor Boston, MA 02118
Phone: (617) 442-3600 | Fax: (617) 442-3619
Email: info@ne-cat.org
Website: https://www.ne-cat.org/
Service Hours: Monday through Friday: 9am-3pm
Requirements & Restrictions: NECAT’s program is free of tuition cost and is designed for individuals who are: unemployed or underemployed (earning a low income); dedicated to working hard and securing a permanent job after the program; interested in a career in the hospitality or food services industries; able to commit to the 12-week program; at least 18 years old; legally able to work in Massachusetts; able to show proof of a high school diploma or GED / HiSet; and committed to staying in touch with NECAT for at least two years after the program
Waiting Time: Waiting time is about 1-5 weeks
Description: Culinary arts job training 12-week program includes technical training along with personal coaching and career readiness. Job placement assistance at the completion of the program. To learn more and to begin the application process, please attend one of the information sessions, held every Tuesday at 9:30am in person.

Newmarket Business Improvement District
Website: https://newmarketbid.org/programs/back2work/
Phone: 617-445-3445
Email: nba@newmarketboston.org
Services offered by the Newmarket BID Association include:
• Homeless Back2Work Program: The BID offers work opportunities to individuals who are homeless or struggling
with addiction in the area.
• Recover Boston Addiction Initiative: Launched in 2017, this program focuses on supporting addiction recovery and providing critical resources for individuals and communities affected by addiction.

Project Place
Address: 1145 Washington Street Boston, MA 02118
Phone: 617-542-3740 x 434 | Fax: 617-542-3860 617-542-3860
Email: info@projectplace.org
Website: https://projectplace.org/
Who to Contact: Beth Carter, Director of Re-Entry Services and Programs
Service Hours: Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm
Requirements & Restrictions: All programs are Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) friendly.
Description: Project Place Re-entry Services and Programs provide a path to success and self-sufficiency individuals returning to the community after incarceration. Through a sense of belonging to the Project Place community that maintains high standards of accountability, participants can thrive as they pursue stabilization.
Services: Project Place Re-entry works with residents, residential facilities and agencies within Suffolk County and the surrounding communities. Project Place utilizes programs and curriculum developed specifically for individuals returning from incarceration and/or those who are system impacted.
Employment, Job Training and Resource Services –
• Career Services Department: Staff are practiced in overcoming the hurdles of CORI challenges and gaps in work history.
• Community Re-entry for Women (CREW): provides job readiness and life skills training to incarcerated women at the Suffolk County House of Correction.
• Stabilization Programing Around Recovery and Resiliency Coaching (SPARRC): is one of several entry points into Project Place and is essential for any people before they begin job training.
• Work Ready: WORK READY is a 4-week job-readiness training program focused on preparing clients for a successful job search. Clients attend a weekly computer class, learn to develop resumes, write cover letters, perform a focused job search, & prepare for the interview process. Upon program completion, clients will be assigned a case manager to assist with job search and provide ongoing support & resources.
• Further Credentialing: options include a 4-week customer service training with certification in customer service through the National Retail Federation Foundation. They also offer a 4-week practicum focused on daily guided job search with the goal of employment for clients who complete customer service credentialing. SERV Safe, an industry- recognized certification in food safety is offered regularly. OSHA training is offered on an occasional basis as well.

Housing Services –
• Project Place partners with various housing providers including Caritas and sober living communities.
• Rapid Rehousing: Betty’s Place is a program that can accommodate up to 10 women at one time. Residents are provided with supports while making the transition from the emergency shelter system to independent living.
• Permanent affordable housing – Gatehouse: Residents must have income, lead a sober lifestyle, and qualify for disability (substance use disorder is considered a disability). Rental subsidies are available for all units, and residents should expect to pay one third of their income towards rent. Call 617-542-3740.

STRIVE – Boston Employment Services, Inc.
Address: 651 Washington Street Dorchester, MA 02124
Phone: 617-825-1800
Email: epowell@jri.org
Website: https://jri.org/services/community/strive
Service Hours: Monday through Friday: 9am – 5pm
Requirements & Restrictions: Valid U.S ID, documents establishing employment eligibility & must speak English
Services: STRIVE Boston is a Workforce Readiness program that provides virtual training services. STRIVE Boston helps people with barriers to employment realize their potential to find and keep jobs that promise sustainable livelihoods and personal growth. Please note that the bulk of their services are now being offered virtually. In-person services are provided by appointment at the JRI Health site, 75R Amory Street in Boston.
• The START program (adults 25+) is a four-week virtual training program where participants meet virtually for 1.5 hours each day. The job search phase follows the four-week training.
• STRIVE Future Leaders program (youth ages 18-24) starts with their Future Leaders Workshop, a two-week training in which participants learn soft skills, participate in goal-setting and mentoring sessions, and benefit from an online platform administered by Penn Foster that enables youth to get industry-recognized certifications in three areas: Retail, Construction and Culinary art.

Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts Inc.
Address: 88 Warren Street Roxbury, MA 02119
Phone: 617-442-4519 | Fax: 617-442-0562
Email: wmfwatkins@gmail.com | Contact: William Watkins, Executive Director of Workforce Development
Website: www.ulem.org
Requirements & Restrictions: Must be 18 years or older with valid ID and GED or High School Equivalency
Services offered include:
• Customer Service & Leadership Training (CSLT) – prepares participants for work through classroom learning and meaningful service activities. It is designed for people who are currently unemployed, have limited work experience, and want to be job ready. Stipend eligible program.
• Computer Literacy & Internet Knowledge – designed to help students succeed in an online learning environment.
• Employment Resource Center (ERC) – provides resources to individuals that are looking to upscale their business or skills. Members can access to computers, internet, printer, and copy machine.
• MSIMBO Urban League Coding Academy – MSIMBO meaning “code” in Swahili, is the Urban League of Eastern MA (ULEM) Coding Boot Camp Training program. The Program is a 20-week full stack training for adults looking to become a computer programmer. Stipend eligible program. Section 30 approved.
• The Domestic and Sexual Violence Project for the Urban League of Eastern MA – This project is an education and action program designed specifically for Boston’s inner-city communities, to train service providers and clergy in culturally specific domestic and sexual violence intervention and prevention strategies. The project provides referrals and education to victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence looking for support.
• DigiUL: Urban League Digital Marketing Lab – A full-time 16-week program designed to teach all the
fundamentals of graphic design, branding, marketing. This is a stipend eligible program. Section 30 approved.

YMCA Training, Inc.
Address: 100 Franklin Street Lower-Level Boston, MA 02110
Phone: 617-542-1800
Email: rlowell@ymcaboston.org
Description: YMCA Training, Inc. provides job skills training and employment assistance in close collaboration with the business community. Their program is an intensive 20-week, full-time (600 hours) computerized office skills training and employment program. Designed to replicate the expectations of a professional office environment, the training prepares participants with both the technical and job readiness skills to succeed. Opportunities for specialization include: Business and administrative support, medical office and health insurance, high school diploma or HiSET (GED).

Youth Options Unlimited (YOU) Boston
Address: 7 Palmer Street 2nd floor Roxbury, MA 02119
Phone: 617-541-2600 | Fax: 617-541-2660
Website: www.youboston.org
Service Hours: Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm typically, however flexible
Languages: English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, Cape Verdean Creole
Description: YOU Boston is a workforce development organization that works with young people who are court-involved or gang-affiliated, reentering the community from incarceration, or seeking refuge from poverty or violence.
Services include: Career Pathways, Case Management/Workshops, Operation Exit & Special Initiatives, Transitional Employment, Summer Youth Employment

Created on 1/30/2026