SODO, Inc. program helps young adults get their lives, and futures, on track

Offering hands-on exposure to a range of careers, including "green" jobs and technologies, the SODO, Inc. (Seeking Opportunities, Developing Occupations) program provides job training and employment experiences for young adults previously involved in the justice system - opportunities that are changing lives and futures.

This innovative partnership between the King County Work Training Program YouthSource/WorkSource Renton, South Seattle Community College Georgetown Campus, and the Manufacturing Industrial Council is a public-private venture that effectively prepares disadvantaged young adults ages 18-24 for family wage careers. The program offers college training, industrial credentials, private sector internships, individualized case management, and job placement assistance. Funding and additional support is provided by the Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County.

Since the program began in 2009, SODO, Inc. has significantly improved the lives of more than 180 low-income young adults and their families by providing job training and employment experiences to young adult offenders in King County as alternatives to secure detention. A continuum of community-based programs provide additional support. Thanks to the efforts of the SODO, Inc. instructors, young adults who have dropped out of high school, become discouraged and involved with the criminal justice system, gain an opportunity to re-engage with education, work to obtain post-secondary credentials that are valued by King County manufacturing and industrial employers, and turn their lives around.

Hands-on learning

SODO students learn a wide variety of skills, including tool use, first aid, industrial safety, and basic work habits and attitudes. Each student has an opportunity to explore apprenticeships in weatherization, drywall, carpentry, heating and cooling installation, and energy-efficient windows taught by union-affiliated instructors at the college. A paid internship offers each student an opportunity to work with a private employer to practice what they learned.

SODO, Inc. is helping young offenders re-integrate into society and support themselves and their families. To learn more, contact the SODO, Inc and the YouthSource Program at WorkSource Renton, 500 SW 7^th St., Suite 100 (Click for map), Renton, WA 98057 call 206-205-3500.

News:

SODO, Inc. named "Program to Watch" by Gov. Christine Gregoire; 2010 Best Practice Awards in Workforce and Economic Development announced

• Read Governor's news release here
• Read King County Executive Dow Constantine's news release here

"It's one of the best things that's ever happened to me"
Ryan, 24, served 10 months in prison. Once employers found out he was a felon, he'd hear a vague "we may call you." But when he discovered SODO, Inc., he found something he never expected. Read Ryan's story.