Workforce Development
CVS Health, Parent Workforce Development 2GEN Partner
Meet Lena, CVS Health Workforce Area Manager
The initial and primary workforce development partner at the table, in full support of Auburn Gresham GOLD and W.K. Kellogg 2GEN (two generation) family initiative, is Lena Barkley, the Area 7 Manager of Workforce initiatives for CVS Health. She has a huge role in the founding and success of the inaugural C.A.P.S program. Experienced with similar work in her hometown of Detroit, Michigan, Lena is helping the AG GOLD staff with the start-up and implementation of our 2GEN workforce program, helping us to make it even better, for Chicago’s south side. We could not ask for a more dedicated and committed partner!
The 2GEN economic and workforce goal is to have 30 parentsgo throught the program over the next 3 years. AG GOLD brought on this exciting initiative to aid in its community school 2-generation model. Using W.K. Kellogg's moto, "We are putting our children first," in our schools. In addition, by helping the parents with this innovative workforce development program, we will in-directly help the child, whole family, and build a capacity within the school that will help Westcott families continue to thrive.
Anecdotes: “This is a work and learn environment. CVS Health wants to keep people inside the program and collectively we want to add lots of supports!” Lena
“Moving people out of poverty. This is the resounding theme supported by CVS Health.” Lena
“What key words skills to describe the program?
- Commitment
- Self Efficacy – YOU HAVE TO WANT THIS
- The will to do
- Positive attitude (customer service is key)
- "Love working with the public” - Asya Smith, Parent Coordinator