The program’s successes are quantifiable. For example, most women who enter the program with a high school diploma or GED are earning an average wage of $8 per hour at that time. Two and a half years later, when they graduate with an associate or four-year degree and leave the Jeremiah program, they earn $15 on average. There are plenty of non-quantifiable successes as well. How do you measure the self esteem developed by enhancing one’s life skills? How do you measure what stability means to a child who is now doing well in school?The program is rigorous. In addition to attending school part-time and working part-time, participants go to biweekly meetings about life skills. The topics range from parenting to healthy relationships to budgeting to academic success. Program participants have a “coach” with whom they meet regularly to evaluate their progress towards their goals. Along with the affordable and safe housing on campus, there is a licensed child development center. The center provides safe and nurturing childcare that prepares children for school. Participants also have access to an employment task force.
