GRAND FORKS — The first Grand Forks business owner who agreed to participate in a program that helps people overcome barriers to employment feels the initiative could benefit the entire community.
Love In Action, a local faith-based nonprofit organization, announced its Ready4Work Program in December. Preston Dahl, owner of Dahl House Properties, said he was drawn to the program because of his personal relationship with Doris Lebby, Love in Action’s board president, as well as his religious convictions.
“In some ways, it’s a ministry,” Dahl said. “They need someone to believe in them and give them a second chance.”
He said he wants to see people succeed, and feels the program has the potential to positively impact not only individuals but the community as a whole.
“I see the skilled labor shortage constantly,” Dahl said.
He frequently hires subcontractors during housing renovations, but can struggle finding people who are the right fit, even if the work itself is not difficult.
Dahl feels some people just need a second chance, while others require more help developing soft skills. Those who have struggled may feel defined by their past and assume no one will give them an opportunity, so they don’t bother trying, he said.
Dahl has made personal efforts in the past that are similar to what Ready4Work offers. He said it’s possible to get burned, yet also an opportunity to build good relationships and find loyalty.
“It requires a fair amount of patience and compassion,” Dahl said.
Everett C. Jones Sr., executive director of Love in Action, said the organization is trying to create programs that fill gaps in the community. Many people ask why people don’t get a job, Jones said, and often forget all the things that come along with finding employment.
Lack of reliable transportation, a mailing address, birth certificate and Social Security card are some of the things that can get in the way, he said.
Jones said Love in Action is trying to focus on solutions, because the problems themselves are well known. He feels people want to work, but sometimes need an extra push, or additional guidance, due to physical or mental health limitations.
With the Ready4Work Program, staff supervisors will help people remain focused, stay on task and even show up for work by ensuring they have a method of transportation.
“Those things are low hanging fruit from my perspective, but very necessary,” he said.
Another focus of the program is reducing the perceived risk that employers face by stepping in to cover other costs — insurance, for example — so employers only have to cover wages.
Jones agrees with Dahl that the Ready4Work Program could positively impact the whole community.
“And it’s not just for the homeless community,” Jones said. “It’s for anybody who finds themselves in a shortfall and wants to get back to work. Our doors will be open to accept applications and get them assigned.”
Business owners with short-term, seasonal or ongoing labor needs who are interested in participating in the program are encouraged to contact Jones at everett@loveinaction.org or (701) 330-8775.
Supporters also can get in touch to help fund program coordination, insurance, compliance, supervision and sustainability.
“We are grateful for the donors that we have, and we are excited for anyone who wants to be a part of this specific transition with us as we go forward, filling in these gaps,” Jones said.
