Grant Stories

While many programs focus on building job skills, Apricity (formerly STEP Industries) is taking an innovative approach to help those struggling with addiction and a sober way of life move from instability to self-sufficiency.

GOAL: Develop pathways for individuals to secure economic stability and opportunity. CHALLENGE: Businesses are grappling with a worker shortage. A survey of Oshkosh Chamber members showed that 40% of respondents had job openings they were not able to fill, up from 33% three years ago. At the same time, 41% of working households in Winnebago County do not earn enough to pay for basic necessities. SUCCESS: Vocational Learning Center.

A person-centered approach, which pairs individualized coaching with a safe, supportive environment in which to develop confidence and self-esteem, is the foundation of their new Vocational Learning Center (VLC). Apricity staff are provided opportunities to attend Fox Valley Technical College (FVTC) professional developmental classes, such as “Motivating People” and “Communication Skills,” in the comfort and convenience of their own facility.

“The partnership with FVTC creates a seamless path for Apricity transitional employees to begin moving toward their education and vocational goals. Initial steps, such as attending a Career Development Workshop at Apricity, to applying for a GED program or other furthering education can be done with support from me and the staff,” says Lynn McLaughlin, Education & Development Specialist at Apricity. “As confidence grows, I work with employees on a warm hand-off to the staff at FVTC as they begin their studies on the FVTC campus.”

“The programming offered through the Vocational Learning Center and Lynn’s assistance, helped me achieve my goal and helped me realize that dreams are not just dreams. They are attainable and within reach.” — Stephanie Starke, Apricity Team Lead

The individualized coaching and guidance allow employees to move forward in their lives at a pace that works best for them. The trust that is gained working one-on-one with the Education & Development Specialist gives employees the comfort of knowing they are not doing this alone.