On February 16th Enlightened Helping Hand Foundation launched its Seminars and Workshops program designed to empower disadvantaged single parents.

(The seminars and workshops will cover a spectrum of topics that teach computer literacy, resume writing, money management, and more. In other words, skills that enable unemployed and under-employed single parents improve their chances of getting well-paying jobs as well as increasing their earning power, and managing single parent family’s money successfully.)

The first of the workshops Resume Writing Workshop for Disadvantaged Single Parents was dedicated to resume writing, an important skill that can make a huge difference in landing a job.

Staff of EHHF During Resume Writing Workshop

Several types of resumes (Combination Resume, Chronological Resume and Functional Resume) were discussed. The elements of a successful resume were explored:

• The importance of valid contact information

• The right way to present career objectives

• Employment history

• Education information

• Using active verbs to illustrate applicant’s skills

• Additional information that contributes to the applicant’s value as a prospective employee

• How to write a résumé’s summary

• Tips for résumé’s writing

• Resume writing mistakes to avoid

Then, resume templates were introduced. Resume writing exercises were given. Each participant wrote her own test-resume. There was a Q & A session as well. In the end, the principles of successful resume writing were reviewed and each  attendee had the opportunity to read her resume aloud. The best resumes were discussed and yes, applauded.

The first of EHHF’s workshops took place in a temporary location while the permanent place for upcoming seminars is being readied. Still, it was a successful event that provided much needed knowledge to struggling single parents and further affirmed the commitment of EHHF’s staff to the organization’s cause. The much needed computer equipment was state-of-the-art (courtesy of Best Buy).

To further inspire attendees, the President of Enlightened Helping Hand Foundation prepared and presented surprise gifts to the children present as well as to all participants (each “graduate” of the resume writing workshop received 5 new t-shirts!).

The Founder of EHHF Bearing Gifts

All participating single parents left feeling energized, more confident of their job hunting – and landing – skills. Suffice to say, each mom left with a smile on her face.

Disadvantaged Single Parents Leave EHHF’s Resume Writing Workshop With a New Self-Confidence (and gifts)

And that’s the ultimate goal of EHHF, to give single parents in need not only an immediate assistance in a crisis but the skills required in today’s competitive marketplace. Everyone, but a single parent even more so, needs a good job, the pride that comes from being self-sufficient and successful. After all, there’s nothing that can ensure the bright future of single parent’s children better than the success of the parent!