Workforce Development Coordinator John Deary works with the men at RMA VC who are interested in Enhanced Programs. He’s pictured here (right) with Bradford.

Enhanced Programs in several areas are offered

During a typical overnight shift in the Security Office, Bradford works to ensure the Mission’s facilities are kept safe. “I’m responsible for making sure that everyone on grounds is where they should be and that no one is here who shouldn’t be,” he said. “I monitor the cameras and do walk arounds to help me keep an eye on things.”

As a Vocational Resident in the Security track of our Enhanced Program, Bradford is getting real world experience and training in preparation for employment in his chosen field.

RMA Ventura County’s Enhanced Program is the vocational extension of our Life Recovery Program that focuses on one of four employment pathways: Security/Loss Prevention, Construction, Culinary Arts, and Retail Operations. Workforce Development Coordinator John Deary explains the philosophy behind the Enhanced Program:

The Life Recovery Program is where our men find refuge, experience recovery, and begin restoration. Part of the program is vocational training, but the Enhanced Program goes much farther by providing industry specific training, real-life work experience, and opportunities for certification in their chosen field. This prepares our men for future success while continuing to build on what they learned in their previous ten months with us.

John described in more detail each of the four employment pathways:

Our Culinary Arts program is run by our own American Culinary Federation executive chef and provides experience in all aspects of running a large, high-volume commercial kitchen. This includes menu planning, food ordering and cost control, meal preparation and service.

Men enrolled in the Retail Operations track get their experience and training as part of the team at our Thrift Stores. This involves many aspects of the retail business with an emphasis on production, receiving, and stock management. Additionally, we offer industry recognized courses in retail operations through the National Retail Federation’s RISE UP training program.

A licensed contractor with 30 years of experience oversees the Construction program. While working with our Facilities team, the men on this pathway learn a wide range of construction skills and management. We are also currently in the process of partnering with the Tri-County Building Trades Council to offer pre-apprenticeship opportunities and a path to union membership.

Lastly, the Security/Loss Prevention track, in addition to providing real-world training, also provides the enrolled men with 8-hour guard card training and an intensive 40-hour course leading to becoming a state-certified security guard.

The construction vocational program offers training and various trades and pathways to pre-apprenticeship.

John emphasizes that all this occurs along with the building of a support community, recovery classes and meetings, and the guidance of a mentor. “We want our men to be successful in all areas of life and that includes the spiritual as well,” he said. “Without continued growth in this area, men often find themselves unable to cope with the stresses and responsibilities of life outside the Mission. We want all our men to have the life that God has planned for them.”

After a recent security shift Bradford reflected on his time at the Mission and what his future might look like. “Through most of the Life Recovery Program I just figured that I would go back to the automotive service industry. But then the opportunity to join the Enhanced Program in Security came up and something in me clicked,” he recalled.

“I have a degree in Criminal Justice, and while this wouldn’t be exactly the same thing, I would be close to something that I had always enjoyed.”

Bradford has completed his eight-hour guard card training and is nearing completion of his security guard certification. “With both these things done and my experience here I should be a great candidate for a job in the security field,” he said. “I am so happy I made the choice to join the Enhanced Program.”