About Michael Barlow Center – Chicago
Michael Barlow Center is an education and job training center located in Chicago, Illinois. They are part of Saint Leonard’s Ministries which provides housing and rehabilitation services to people who have been incarcerated in the Illinois prison system. The Michael Barlow Center is open to both residents and non-residents of Saint Leonard’s. Of the people treated by St. Leonard’s, 75% have been in the justice system for drug-related crimes. Two of the housing programs they operate include counseling services for people with substance use disorder. They have been in business for almost 20 years and help hundreds of people each year.
You will begin your training there with an orientation session. They have sessions every Wednesday and Friday. You will learn about the history of the center and all of the amenities available to you. They will go over the classes available and the rules for participants.
People who have committed drug crimes often do so because of a lack of job opportunities. The education program offers adults the opportunity to complete high school. It also offers classes in financial literacy. You will be taught how to make a personal budget. You will also learn about mortgages. They have individual sessions as well as group classes.
They teach basic computer skills. You will learn how to use the internet to do research and find jobs. You will also receive instructions on the basics of Microsoft Office Suite.
They have vocational training as well. All clients will participate in the Road to Success program which teaches you how to write a resume and how to interview for a job. You will also learn how to get along with co-workers and how to manage employees.
They have their 10-week culinary school program here. They provide instructions on basic kitchen and food preparation skills. They offer transitional employment to people who complete this program.
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