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The partnership for Adult Learning (PAL), the program that creates productive, skilled members in our community, is being drastically cut. Therefore, several programs will not be funded this fiscal year. Amid a shrinking job market, the state-funded PAL program provides individuals with assistance in completing their General Equivalency Diploma (GED) and attaining specialized training. Former PAL participants have found employment in culinary arts, the automotive industry as well as the medical field. The accelerated program offered by selected Southeast Michigan Community Alliance (SEMCA) service centers provides an opportunity for adults to improve their reading, writing and mathematic skills. The six-week program consists of five components including adult basic education, GED test preparation, workforce readiness, English as a second language and high school completion. In addition, students can take advantage of six courses such as culinary arts, electronics technology, graphic design and welding technology. SEMCA’s Michigan Works! Wayne Service Center recently recognized 33 individuals who completed the program. Some individuals obtained their GED and others have obtained employment. Among the graduates, Janice Pruitt of Highland Park said the program has opened up many doors for her. Pruitt enrolled in PAL at the Highland Park Michigan Works! Service Center with hopes of learning a trade and obtaining her GED. As a result of Pruitt’s participation, she now has her GED and is optimistic about her career. “PAL is a good program for people to get the necessary skills needed to obtain employment,” said Pruitt. “Coming to the center has not only given me something to look forward to, but has opened the doors for future positions.” Charlene Frazier, who is a Work First coordinator at the Wayne Michigan Works! Service Center, said, “The PAL program is able to fine tune individuals and help them receive opportunities that otherwise wouldn’t be offered to them without a GED.” “We’re here to help,” said Frazier. “To see individuals succeed at something they worked hard at is so rewarding.” SEMCA leadership hopes to continue providing the educational programs. “Because of the PAL program, in just six weeks our centers are able to train individuals and put them on the right pathway to self-sufficiency,” said Jack O’Reilly, executive director of SEMCA. “We want to continue to deliver the programs that make a difference because that’s what we do best.” |