Okmulgee County welcomes a new employment initiative aimed at helping residents access better job opportunities. Work Ready Oklahoma, an expansion of the Oklahoma Citybased program, is providing a much-needed resource for individuals seeking remote employment with livable wages.
Two key members of the Okmulgee team, Ashley, Program Support, and Rebecca, Employment Coach, spoke to the Times about how this program is opening doors for local residents.
“We’re focusing on helping people gain access to remote employment that offers livable wages starting at $16 an hour, with benefits like insurance,” explained Rebecca, the Employment Coach. The program offers a week-long workshop where participants can gain skills necessary for remote employment, get resume assistance, and be introduced to potential employers.
Rebecca emphasized the importance of addressing barri- ers that prevent people from finding good jobs. “We help participants who are on programs like TANF, SNAP or free school lunches. We offer encouragement and resources to let them know there’s a place for them in society.”
The program is a game-changer for Okmulgee, where the cost of living can be a struggle for many. Rebeca shares how statistics show that a single person needs to earn $18 an hour to meet their basic needs, while a single parent with one child requires at least $31 an hour. For many in Okmulgee, jobs that pay these wages are hard to come by, but the remote job market offers new possibilities. “Remote positions open the door for so much,” Rebecca added.
Since officially launching in July, Work Ready Oklahoma has been preparing for its first workshop, scheduled for September 16. The workshop focuses on soft skills like communication, self-presentation and overcoming challenges like public speaking. For those lacking the necessary equipment to work remotely, the program will provide access to remote offices for up to three months.
The program’s commitment doesn’t end after the workshop. Rebecca explained, “We keep in touch with participants to see how their job is going. If it’s not the right fit, we help them find something better suited to their skills.” This ongoing support ensures participants have the tools they need to succeed.
Work Ready Oklahoma also plans to hold job fairs, though these won’t be typical events. Instead, they will serve as outreach sessions where attendees can learn about the program and receive contacts for remote employers.
Rebecca and Ashley are excited about the impact this program will have on Okmulgee. “It’s an amazing opportunity,” Ashley said. Remote work allows people to bring in income without the added stress of commuting or finding childcare.
For those interested in joining the program, participants can register through a QR code that links to the Work Ready Oklahoma website. The program also has a Facebook page, and soon there will be an Instagram and LinkedIn page for updates.
Ashley summed up the spirit of the program, saying, “We’re here to support people, and we want to help them become the best version of themselves.”
For more information, you can visit their office located at 100 W. 7th Street on the 2nd floor, above Access Solutions. Workshops are held monthly for ten months out of the year, and the program is free of charge.
Stay tuned for more updates as Work Ready Oklahoma continues to help transform lives in Okmulgee County.
For further details, contact Work Ready Oklahoma or follow them on Facebook for the latest workshop dates and resources.
