2 NW 2nd Portland, Oregon
Hours of operation: 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday
7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. on Fridays
503-226-7387

When people are ready to work, CCC’s Employment Access Center is there to make sure they have the right tools. At the career center, job seekers have access to computers, the internet, tutorials, personal voicemail, copier, telephone and fax services.

All individuals who are looking for work, those under-employed, recently unemployed, those looking to enhance their skills or those recovering from addictions and homelessness are encouraged to visit the Employment Access Center. Services received there can help any individual on the path to self-sufficiency through employment and prepare them to live productive lives as skilled workers, ready to fill the needs of local businesses.

Multiple public and private partners, provide job referrals, employment counseling, a wide variety of vocational and social skills training, and classes such as resume writing, interviewing and money management. The Employment Access Center is a one-stop employment resource center, and has multiple partners on-site including Oregon Employment Department, the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation and Community Court.

The center also focuses on helping homeless people and those at risk of becoming homeless put a firm foundation under themselves and their families. Specialized programs address the particular needs of homeless veterans. Other programs work with ex-prisoners reentering society. Moral Reconation Therapy® (MRT) helps people with criminal backgrounds to transform their moral reasoning.

Staff takes a one-on-one case management approach, designing services to address clients’ needs and overcome barriers to employment. Clients develop a comprehensive plan that can lead them to permanent and competitive employment. They may be able to access certification training dollars to develop new skills that lead to career advancement and livable wage jobs.

Additionally, a supported employment program provides more intensive job development and on-the-job coaching for individuals living in alcohol and drug free transitional housing. This program uses the evidence-based practice, Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model.

Click here to read more about IPS

Click here to read the PSU Study on 2007-09 Employment Outcomes
The above employment study received national exposure on the Homeless Resource Center website administered by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Mental Health Services.

Click here to view class list and schedule.

Impact

• Employment Access Center enrolls more than 2,100 customers per year
• 490 people secured employment in 2009
• Client Profile:
  - Homeless: 1057
  - Addiction: 978
  - Ex-offenders: 1086
  - Veterans: 437
• In 2009, Employment Access Center clients who secured employment earned an average hourly wage 50% greater than Oregon’s minimum wage rate.