What is the Back2Work Program
The Cedar Rapids St. Vincent de Paul Back2Work program provides customized training, education, community resources and connectivity, as well as a mentor for those we serve working to become self-sufficient. Through this program, participants will be preparing to enter or re-enter the workforce and secure employment with a livable wage. The program targets specific skills and benchmarks around employment preparation, healthy relationships at home and work, financial literacy, and career readiness to work toward employment or preparation for employment in a desired position.
2026 Classes will be held April 23-May1, July 16-24, Oct 15-23 for more information please hit the contact the Back2Work team button or email:
Back2Work Sessions will include (but not limited to):
- Navigating the Career Pathway/Career readiness skills (resume, cover letter, guided career search and attainment)
- Soft skill development and enhancement
- Career coaching and attainment
- Career follow-up and enhancement
- Connectivity and co-paid enrollment in employment and internships
- Healthy Relationships classes
- Financial literacy
- Substance abuse and mental health referrals and connectivity
- Ongoing mentorship
We Are Looking for Mentors
Mentors are needed for the Cedar Rapids St. Vincent de Paul Back2Work (B2W) program that prepares people to successfully re-enter the workforce and to become self-sufficient with a livable wage job. Participants complete a 7-day program teaching; employer expectations, developing resumes, applying for jobs online, interviewing technique, and learning about community resources to support their success. Upon completion, they interview for jobs with local companies and are matched with a designated mentor for one year. As a mentor, you play a vital role in their success through ongoing communication of job issues, maintaining healthy relationships, financial literacy and career advancement. To learn more about being a mentor in the B2W program please email, Back2Workcrsvdp@gmail.com.
Mentor meetings in 2026 will be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, starting at 6:30 pm on: June 18th, July 14th, Sept 8th and Oct 8th. B2W Class Programs in 2026: July 16th -24th with mentors meeting their mentee on July 23rd October 15th – 23rd with mentors meeting their mentee on Oct 22nd
Back2Work Sessions will include (but not limited to):
- Navigating the Career Pathway/Career readiness skills (resume, cover letter, guided career search and attainment)
- Soft skill development and enhancement
- Career coaching and attainment
- Career follow-up and enhancement
- Connectivity and co-paid enrollment in employment and internships
- Healthy Relationships classes
- Financial literacy
- Substance abuse and mental health referrals and connectivity
- Ongoing mentorship
