FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Feb. 9, 2011 

MUW partners with Experience Works
 
By Jill D. O’Bryant 

COLUMBUS, Miss. -- This semester Mississippi University for Women has partnered with Experience Works, a national, charitable, community-based organization that helps low-income older adults get the training they need to find good jobs in their communities. 

Based on employment interests and goals, participants are assigned to qualified nonprofit organizations or government agencies on a part-time basis where they are trained and receive work experience by performing their community service training assignment. While participants receive training, supervision and experience directly from their host agencies, their training wages and fringe benefits are paid by Experience Works. 

Charmane Thomas of Columbus, who has been employed at MUW since mid-January, works as a receptionist in Student Services and is paid through an Experience Works grant. 

When asked what kind of asset Thomas has been to the department, Towanda Williams, assistant director of career services, said, “Tremendous is the first word that comes to mind. She has a natural instinct for professionalism, and she brings an atmosphere of cheerfulness with her. I am very pleased with having Charmane as part of our team.” 

Thomas is equally pleased with the experience. 

“It is a great experience, and I am having a wonderful time at MUW,” she said, noting she enjoys greeting the students. 

In addition to working at MUW through this program, Thomas also is enrolled in one course this semester. She has two semesters left to complete an English degree. Her long-term goal is to become a writer. 

The Experience Works website states that the goal of the Experience Works Senior community Service Employment Program is to provide participants with the training, experience, supportive services and information they need to improve their lives, gain self-sufficiency, realize their goals, obtain permanent employment and meet the needs of a demand-drive workforce. 

For more information about Experience Works, please call 1-866-976-5939 or visit www.experienceworks.org.