SPRINGFIELD — When people think of Square One, they may think of the early childhood programs offered by the organization. For the past 15 years, however, Square One has offered programs that give teens and young adults education and skills for the future. MassMutual Foundation recently donated $100,000 to those workforce development programs.
Melissa Blissett, vice president of family services at Square One, said the organization first began its foray into workforce development programs with its Mom Squad, a program supporting mothers who were homeless or at risk of homelessness. While that program is no longer operating, Square One has started an array of other programs designed to remove barriers for families in the community.
One of the programs MassMutual is supporting with its donation is Square One’s Learn and Earn program. It gives people between the ages of 16 and 24 the opportunity for real-world, firsthand experience. The organization has created partnerships with about 50 businesses and employers in the area. Those who are not enrolled in school and who have not yet received their high school diploma can earn it through Penn Foster High School, a virtual, accredited program. Learn and Earn is funded primarily through the MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board and the state Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
Blissett said Square One is trying to meet learners where they are. “Right now, nine of our youth are working toward their high school diploma through Penn Foster, which offers a flexible, self-paced online program. For some young people, having that flexibility can make all the difference in helping them stay on track.”
Another workforce development program that will benefit from the MassMutual Foundation donation is YouthWorks. About 100 young people, ages 14 to 25, work at jobsites for between six and eight weeks during the summer. About 50 others gain work experience during the school year. Blissett said the programs help young people “take meaningful steps toward their education and career goals.”
MassMutual’s funding will help Square One offer these programs at no cost to participants and eliminate the cost of paid certifications, technology, workshops, driving school and educational support. Blissett said, “Those things may seem small, but they can make a tremendous difference for a young person trying to move forward.”
Blissett said Square One also offers a lead poisoning prevention program and home-visit programs to support children’s development and parents’ skills. Additionally, there is a program that supports pregnant or parenting families impacted by substance use or recovery.
“It really takes a community to make this work successful,” Blissett said. She named Balise Auto Group, Liberty Bank, the city of Springfield, Squeez’D, Neighborhood Guidance, Cartamundi and Indian Orchard Citizens Council as some of the community partners Square One works closely with. “Each partner brings something different to the table, and together, we’re able to give young people more opportunities and resources.”
Square One is continually seeking funding opportunities. Blissett said, “We’re always looking for partners, especially those who believe in investing in our youth.” The organization is also taking on volunteers to help support its programs and Square One families. She said, “Ultimately, we want to make sure that a young person’s circumstances don’t determine their ability to pursue their goals.”
