The Chicago Transit Authority’s (CTA) Second Chance Program stands as a beacon of opportunity, offering Chicago residents a valuable pathway to employment and career development. Nationally recognized, this initiative provides crucial job skills and opens doors for individuals facing significant barriers to workforce re-entry. If you’re seeking “Cara Program Jobs” in Chicago, understanding the Second Chance Program is your first step towards a brighter future.
Taking a holistic approach, the Second Chance Program, in partnership with organizations like the Cara Program, empowers individuals to achieve self-sufficiency. More than just offering jobs, it provides comprehensive training, educational resources, mentorship, and vital networking opportunities. This robust support system is designed to equip participants with the tools they need to succeed in the workforce and beyond.
Since its expansion in 2011, the program has grown exponentially, becoming one of the largest and most impactful re-entry programs in the nation. To date, over 3,000 Chicagoans have benefited from this initiative, gaining invaluable experience that might have otherwise been unattainable. Impressively, over 600 Second Chance participants have transitioned into permanent roles within the CTA, while countless others have successfully launched careers in the private sector. The program’s success is evident in the lives it has transformed, enabling hundreds to rebuild their lives and provide for their families through meaningful employment opportunities.
Applying for Cara Program Jobs Through the Second Chance Program
The Second Chance Program is currently welcoming applications for temporary, full-time Apprentice positions. For those specifically interested in “cara program jobs” within this framework, the application process is facilitated through a network of dedicated agency partners across the Chicagoland area. To apply, referral from one of these listed agencies is mandatory. We strongly encourage you to connect with these partner organizations to explore the employment resources and guidance they offer.
Thank you for considering the CTA’s Second Chance Program as a stepping stone in your career journey. We are enthusiastic about the prospect of assisting you in achieving your professional goals.
Partner Agencies for Cara Program Jobs & Second Chance Program Applications:
-
The Cara Program
237 S. Desplaines Street Chicago, IL 60661
312-798-3300
www.carachicago.org -
Howard and Evanston Community Center
7637 N. Paulina Chicago, IL 60626
773-262-3515
www.howardevanston.org -
Hope Center Foundation
10909 S Cottage Grove Chicago, IL 60628
773-371-2330
hopecenterchicago.org -
Safer Foundation
808 S Kedzie Ave Chicago, IL 60612
872-999-2560 x2526
[email protected] -
St Leonard’s Ministries/ Michael Barlow Center
The Michael Barlow Center of St. Leonard’s Ministries
2120 W. Warren Blvd. Chicago, IL 60612
312-226-6270
www.slministries.org -
St Sabina’s Employment Resource Center
7825 S Racine Ave Chicago, IL 60620
773-783-3760
https://saintsabina.org/ -
Westside Health Authority
Community Re-Entry & Employment Center
5417 W. Division St. Chicago, IL 60651
773-786-0226 x2100
healthauthority.org
Frequently Asked Questions About Cara Program Jobs and the Second Chance Program
For individuals exploring “cara program jobs” through the Second Chance Program, understanding the specifics is crucial. Here are some frequently asked questions to guide you:
What are the eligibility requirements for Cara Program Jobs within the Second Chance Program?
To be eligible for “cara program jobs” and participation in the Second Chance Program, job seekers must meet the following criteria:
- Be a resident of the City of Chicago.
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Successfully complete an approved Job Readiness Training Program and obtain a certificate of completion. (Referrals are exclusively accepted from our listed agency partners).
Furthermore, Second Chance Program applicants must have completed any required:
- Drug/alcohol treatment programs
- Work release center programs
How many Second Chance Program positions, including potential Cara Program Jobs, are available?
The CTA Second Chance Program can employ up to 315 participants at any given time. The start and end dates for each participant are flexible and operate on a rolling basis, offering continuous opportunities to join and benefit from “cara program jobs” and related roles.
What is the duration of the Second Chance Program?
Participant involvement in the Second Chance Program can last for up to 12 months, contingent on satisfactory job performance and consistent attendance. This period provides ample time to develop skills and gain valuable experience for future “cara program jobs” or career advancements.
What is the pay rate for Cara Program Jobs and other positions in the Second Chance Program?
Participants in the Second Chance Program are compensated at a rate of $16.67 per hour, with the potential to work up to 40 hours per week. Paychecks are issued bi-weekly. Additionally, participants enjoy the significant benefit of free transportation on CTA buses and trains, Pace suburban buses, and Metra trains throughout their employment period, easing their commute to “cara program jobs” and other assignments.
What steps follow once I am invited to apply for the Second Chance Program, potentially for Cara Program Jobs?
Upon receiving an invitation to apply, the following steps are involved:
- Application Completion: Applicants will complete a formal application for the program.
- Program Overview & Interview: Attendance at a Program Overview session followed by an interview.
- Background Processing: Fingerprinting for background checks.
- Medical Review: Completion of a medical review.
After selection into the Second Chance Program, what are the subsequent steps?
Following selection, participants will undergo:
- Orientation: A comprehensive new employee orientation covering program guidelines, eligibility criteria, job responsibilities, placements, and Union participation.
- Training: Mandatory paid training is required before participants are assigned to their respective work locations, preparing them for “cara program jobs” and other roles.
What are the expectations for participants during the Second Chance Program?
During the program, participants are expected to:
- Maintain engagement with their referring agency for ongoing support.
- Maintain punctuality and consistent attendance at work.
- Adhere to all CTA rules, policies, and procedures.
- Be available to work any assigned shift at any CTA location, recognizing that CTA operates 24/7.
What happens upon successful completion of the Second Chance Program?
Successful completion of the 12-month program brings several benefits:
- Certificate of Completion & Letter of Reference: Participants in good standing receive a certificate of completion and a letter of reference from the CTA, valuable assets for future “cara program jobs” applications.
- Advanced Skill Development: Graduates will have acquired advanced skills, enhancing their competitiveness for permanent employment opportunities.
- Encouragement for CTA Vacancies: Program graduates are encouraged to apply for permanent job openings within the CTA, leveraging their Second Chance Program experience.
Who should I contact if I have further questions about Cara Program Jobs and the Second Chance Program?
For any remaining inquiries regarding the Second Chance Program, please contact the CTA Second Chance Hotline at 1-312-681-2293 for direct assistance and information about “cara program jobs” and program details.
