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Covenant House Washington
Haven on Earth
Although Levon earned his high school diploma, he wasn't doing much with it. He was spending all his time at home or out playing ball. He needed to get his mind and hands motivated to gain some additional training to make it into the world of meaningful work. A member of the D.C. Roving Leaders referred Levon to Covenant House Washington's Community Outreach Center where he was directed by a Service Manager to participate in the Artisans Woodworking Program. Now, with a newly discovered interest in working with his hands and a talent for creative design, Levon is focused on building a career in woodworking. Just what sparked Levon's interest in wood craftsmanship? The answer to that question can be discovered at the Artisans Woodshop Open House, Thursday, October 9, 2 - 6 p.m., 1235 Kenilworth Avenue, NE.
The Covenant House Washington Artisans Woodworking Program is a career-training initiative that teaches youth ages 18 - 21 the techniques and applied craft of fine woodworking in a hands-on learning environment. In a small, professional grade workshop homeless youth, high school dropouts, and youth who once believed they could never find a job are now developing specialized, highly marketable skills and experience that will allow them to secure rewarding employment in an array of fields such as cabinetry and carpenter helpers. During the six-month training program, Artisans work with a staff of skilled crafts persons. The hands-on learning environment of the woodshop exposes Artisans to professional grade hand and power tools, and the newest in woodworking technology. At the end of 24 weeks, participants will demonstrate: knowledge of safe and proper use of tools and technology, teamwork, and problem solving; fundamental skills required for entry-level positions as finish carpenters, cabinetmakers, and millwork employees; and an understanding of operating and growing a business.
Like Levon, all of the Artisans have endured the hardships of life on the streets. All are interested in making a transition in their lives-from homelessness to stable housing, joblessness to meaningful work, and from delinquency to life-long learning. Through its Artisans Program, Covenant House Washington is helping youth make these wishes a reality.
For more information about the Artisans Woodworking Program, contact Matt Barinholtz, Enterprise Manager, at 202-610-6519. The Artisans Woodworking Program is made possible, in part, due to the generous support of the D.C. Children and Youth Investment Trust Corporation. Individuals and businesses interested in contributing to this initiative should also contact Barinholtz.-30-