Pawsperity

Pawsperity launched in 2016 as an innovative and multi-faceted program designed to lift families out of poverty through customized social work support and job training in the fast-growing profession of pet grooming. To date, 112 adults have graduated our program and found confidence, stability, and living wage careers as groomers. As students in our full-service employment training program, parents complete 644 hours of training, life skills classes, and 72 hours of soft skills classes covering topics necessary for successful employment. Complementing the program is individualized case management, which allows each participant to set and reach their goals. This "all-in" approach delivers impact that is truly transformational. Students participate in a three-phase service approach-Stability, Job Training, Employment Support-that occurs over approximately seven to nine months. That coursework is followed by the Bridge Program, which provides another 18 months of employment support. Graduates of the program make an average of $43,000, with our highest earner making up to $95,000 in 2022.