Computer Classes offered during December

Project Self-Sufficiency will be offering a variety of computer classes in December, including an Introduction to Personal Computers, introductory courses in Microsoft Word and Excel, and courses designed specifically for men. All classes will take place in the agency’s Career Center, which is located at 127 Mill Street in Newton. The fee for each computer course is $10; all of the remaining seminars are free. Students must be registered Family Success Center or Project Self-Sufficiency participants.

A basic Introduction to Personal Computers will be offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, December 1st – 10th, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. or from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. This introductory course is designed for first-time computer users or people with limited computer experience. Students will learn computer basics, including the different components of the computer and the performance of simple procedures. Fundamental keyboarding skills and a brief overview of popular software applications, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook will also be discussed.

An introductory class in Microsoft Word will be offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, December 1st – 10th, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., or from 6:00 –9:00 p.m. Students will learn word-processing techniques, including the creation of professional-looking letters, faxes, newsletters and other documents, as well as the use of mail merge features used to print mailing labels and address letters to multiple recipients. Participation in the introductory level Microsoft Word course is required prior to registration in the advanced class.

Introductory Microsoft Excel classes will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays, December 1st – 10th, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. or from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Instruction will center on the creation of spreadsheets, databases and workbooks for use in tracking inventory, sorting data and creating mailing lists. Students will learn how to add, subtract, multiply and divide rows and columns using formulas and become adept at storing, managing and interpreting data. Students must complete the introductory level Microsoft Excel class before registration in the advanced course.

A special Men’s Employment Lab will be offered on Wednesdays, December 3rd and 10th, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. or from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Participants will receive assessment testing, discuss short and long-term employment goals, obtain basic computer instruction, and assistance with resume development and job search techniques.

The agency will also offer a series of seminars during the day and evening which are designed to help participants land and succeed at new jobs. Courses will cover “Resumes & Cover Letters”, “Interviewing Skills”, “Job Search & Networking Techniques”, “Financial Management”, “Workplace Literacy”, “Salary Negotiations”, and “Careering 102.” Project Self-Sufficiency’s Career Center also offers help with obtaining a GED; job training for women, teens and young adults; career counseling and assessment; Job Start and Job Search services. Interested participants are encouraged to contact the agency for a schedule.

The fee for each computer course is $10, the course for seniors is $25, and all other seminars are free. All computer classes at the agency are open to registered Family Success Center and Project Self-Sufficiency participants. To inquire about eligibility, or to find out more about the computer courses, seminars or career fairs offered at Project Self-Sufficiency, call 973-940-3500, or visit www.projectselfsufficiency.org.