L.I.F.T. Mentor Program is a joint endeavor between the Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce and the Omaha chapter of the Human Resource Association of the Midlands, and in partnership with the Business Ethics Alliance. The program is focused on supporting talented professional women looking to restart their careers after an extended absence from the workforce. Women have historically assumed many roles that have caused them to exit the workforce temporarily. Such responsibilities include, but are not limited to, giving birth and raising children, or caring for aging or ailing relatives. Additionally, COVID-19 has caused many mothers to return home to ensure the well-being of their families and to assume the duties of educators as schools closed when “stay at home” ordinances were issued.
L.I.F.T. Mentor Program provides opportunities for participants to receive a one-on-one professional mentor, get reacquainted with the local professional network, strengthen professional skills, broaden their perspective, explore new career paths, and experience a direct and guided mentorship.
OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDE:
- A guided period of mentorship for six months.
- Networking opportunities, with local professionals including professional women networking groups.
- Assess the best path for a successful transition back into the workforce which could include direct full-time employment, entrepreneurship, or technical skills training.
- (IWCC has Continued Ed course to assist with specific careers – i.e. Nursing or teaching.)
- Career coaching/advising provided by a female mentor who is currently in the HR occupation.
- Assistance with placement in new employment opportunities.
ELIGIBILITY:
- Previously employed professional women who have been out of the workforce or unable to find adequate full-time employment for a minimum of one year.
- Must be actively seeking to return to the workforce.
- Must be eligible to legally work in the United States.
- Must attend the three professional development workshops in October, December, and February. (Eight hours over six months.)
- Must commit to the program for six months. By meeting with a mentor or at program events.
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