WorkPaths was established by Central Dallas Ministries in 2006.  Focusing on pre-employment education and training, programs are designed to provide a path for people and communities into rewarding careers and self-sufficiency. Through a partnership with OAI, Inc., a  national workforce development agency, WorkPaths offers a12-week course to low-income workers ready to take the next step towards a career providing meaningful work and adequate income for sustaining families. In 2007 this program won a National Workforce Development Award from the Construction Users Roundtable.  Through WorkPaths’ partnership with Bill J Priest/El Centro College and  with the support of Microsoft Corporation, a program was developed which allows individuals to gain basic computer skills in Microsoft Office programs, as well as learn basic business fundamentals and workplace skills.

An Overview

WorkPaths is a workforce development strategy operating as a program of Central Dallas Ministries (CDM) focused on pre-employment training and education to equip our neighbors with the necessary skills needed to enter the workforce or if they desire, continue with additional training and/or education.

Program Description

WorkPaths’ programs seek to put individuals on a path to enter the workforce equipped with the skills necessary to hold living wage jobs (jobs which pay between $9-$15) which also offer a long-term career and benefits.  WorkPaths accomplishes this goal by providing intense life skills, and hard skills training paired with a working "life plan" that prepares participants for employment in high demand jobs in the construction industry and general office environment. The programs also prepares participants for further education and training to assist them in reaching their goals. Training is provided through collaborative and contractual arrangements with academic and proprietary institutions as well as other programs developed by CDM.

Soft Skills/Life Skills training are designed to ensure the success of individuals as they enter into the workforce