WORKSHOPS

Training Module: What Business Is Right For You


Objective:
To guide our clients in identifying the most suitable business venture aligned with their skills, interests, and market opportunities. Participants will assess personal strengths, and conduct market research to make an informed decision about their entrepreneurial path.

Duration: 3 hours

    • Welcome and introductions
    • Overview of workshop goals and objectives
    • Brief icebreaker activity: Share your dream business
    • Identifying personal strengths, skills, and passions
    • Understanding your values and goals
    • Worksheet: Personal SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)
    • Overview of different business models (e.g., product-based, service-based, e-commerce, franchise)
    • Pros and cons of each model
    • Importance of market research in choosing the right business
    • Worksheet: Identifying potential markets and customer segments
    • Matching personal strengths and interests with market needs
    • Evaluating business ideas based on feasibility and profitability
    • Group activity: Brainstorming and evaluating potential business ideas
    • Developing a clear and compelling business concept
    • Defining your unique value
    • Worksheet: Creating a business concept statement
    • Setting short-term and long-term goals
    • Creating an action plan for further research and planning
    • Resources and tools for continued support
    • Open floor for questions and discussion
    • Recap of key takeaways
    • Feedback and evaluation

Materials Provided:

  • Worksheets for personal assessment and business concept development
  • Daily Planner
  • List of resources for market research and business planning SBA etc.

Training Module: How to Obtain a Business License 101


Objective:
To guide participants through the process of obtaining a business license, including understanding the requirements, completing necessary applications, and navigating regulatory compliance. This workshop will provide a step-by-step approach to help our clients ensure they meet all requirements for operating their business.

Duration: 2.5 hours

    • Welcome and introductions
    • Overview of workshop goals and objectives
    • Icebreaker activity: Share your business idea or the type of business you’re interested in starting
    • Definition and importance of a business license
    • Types of business licenses and permits (local, state, federal)
    • Common misconceptions about business licensing
    • Identifying the specific licenses and permits required for different types of businesses
    • Factors influencing licensing requirements (business location, industry, structure)
    • Activity: Checklist for determining your specific licensing needs
    • Step-by-step guide to applying for a business license
    • Key documents and information needed (business plan, identification, proof of address)
    • Hands-On Activity: Completing a sample business license application form
    • Overview of local, state, and federal licensing agencies and requirements
    • How to research and contact the appropriate agencies
    • Discussion: Resources for finding licensing information specific to your location
    • Understanding ongoing compliance requirements and renewal processes
    • Maintaining good standing and avoiding common mistakes
    • Discussion: Strategies for staying compliant and managing renewals
    • Open floor for questions and discussion
    • Recap of key takeaways
    • Feedback and evaluation

Materials Provided:

  • Sample business license application forms
  • Checklist for determining licensing needs
  • List of resources and contact information for licensing agencies

Training Module: Basic Finance 101


Objective:
To introduce clients to fundamental financial concepts and practices, empowering them with the knowledge to manage their personal finances effectively. This workshop will cover budgeting, saving, and understanding credit and debt, providing a solid foundation for making informed financial decisions.

Duration: 3 hours

    • Welcome and introductions
    • Overview of workshop goals and objectives
    • Icebreaker activity: Share your biggest financial goal
    • Key financial concepts (income, expenses, savings, )
    • Importance of financial literacy
    • Discussion: How personal finance impacts everyday life
    • Creating a personal budget: steps and tools
    • Tracking and categorizing expenses
    • Worksheet: Sample budget template and expense tracker
    • The importance of saving and building an emergency fund
    • Strategies for effective saving
    • Activity: Setting up short-term and long-term savings goals
    • Basic investment options (stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs)
    • Risk vs. reward and the concept of diversification
    • Discussion: How to start investing with limited funds
    • Types of credit (credit cards, loans, mortgages)
    • Understanding credit scores and reports
    • Managing and reducing debt
    • Worksheet: Strategies for improving credit scores and managing debt
    • Setting financial goals and priorities
    • Developing a simple financial plan
    • Worksheet: Creating a basic financial plan and action steps
    • Open floor for questions and discussion
    • Recap of key takeaways
    • Feedback and evaluation

Materials Provided:

  • Worksheets for budgeting, expense tracking, and financial planning
  • Basic financial plan template
  • List of recommended tools and resources for personal finance

Training Module: Grant Writing FULL Workshop


Duration: 8 hours

  • Objective: Understand the basics of grant writing and the importance of a well-crafted proposal. Getting tips, resources, knowledge, and network to confidently write your own grants to obtain funding needed for your objective. Acquiring advice, tools, information, and connections to author your own grant proposals in order to secure the necessary funding for your goals.

    1. Welcome and Introduction
      • Overview of the workshop objectives
      • Importance of grant writing for organizations
      • Introduction of participants and their goals
    2. Understanding Grants
      • Definition of grants and their types (government, private foundations, corporate)
      • Overview of the grant lifecycle: Research, Proposal Writing, Submission, and Reporting
      • Common terminology in grant writing
    3. Key Elements of a Grant Proposal
      • Cover Letter
      • Executive Summary
      • Statement of Need
      • Project Description
      • Goals and Objectives
      • Budget and Justification
      • Evaluation Plan
      • Organization Information
    4. Q&A Session
      • Address any initial questions or concerns
  • Objective: Learn how to research and prepare for writing a successful grant proposal.

    1. Identifying Funding Sources
      • How to find appropriate funders
      • Using databases and online resources (e.g., GrantWatch, Foundation Directory Online)
      • Understanding funder priorities and guidelines
    2. Aligning Proposals with Funder’s Goals
      • Matching your project with funder’s mission and priorities
      • Tailoring your proposal to fit specific funder requirements
    3. Gathering Required Information
      • Collecting organizational information
      • Data and evidence to support the Statement of Need
      • Stakeholder engagement and letters of support
    4. Creating a Grant Writing Plan
      • Timeline and milestones
      • Assigning roles and responsibilities
  • Objective: Develop the skills to write each section of a grant proposal effectively.

    1. Crafting the Cover Letter and Executive Summary
      • Tips for a compelling cover letter
      • Writing a concise and persuasive executive summary
    2. Developing the Statement of Need
      • Presenting a clear and compelling need
      • Using data and evidence to support claims
    3. Writing the Project Description
      • Defining goals and objectives
      • Outlining the project plan and activities
      • Developing a timeline and milestones
    4. Budget and Justification
      • Creating a detailed and realistic budget
      • Justifying expenses and demonstrating cost-effectiveness
    5. Evaluation Plan
      • Designing a plan for assessing project outcomes
      • Setting up metrics and methods for evaluation
    6. Organizational Information
      • Highlighting organizational capacity and experience
      • Including relevant past successes and qualifications
  • Objective: Learn how to review, finalize, and submit a grant proposal.

    1. Reviewing the Proposal
      • Checklist for reviewing and editing
      • Peer review and feedback process
      • Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
    2. Finalizing the Proposal
      • Ensuring compliance with funder guidelines
      • Formatting and presentation tips
    3. Submission Process
      • Understanding submission requirements (online portals, mail)
      • Tracking and follow-up strategies
    4. Post-Submission Steps
      • Preparing for funder inquiries
      • Planning for project implementation and reporting
  • Objective: Consolidate learning and provide additional resources.

    1. Recap of Key Takeaways
      • Summary of the workshop’s key points
      • Review of resources and tools available
    2. Resource Materials
      • Providing templates, checklists, and sample proposals
      • Sharing recommended books, websites, and tools
    3. Feedback and Evaluation
      • Collecting participant feedback on the workshop
      • Discussing next steps and further learning opportunities
    4. Networking and Q&A
      • Time for final questions
      • Networking opportunities among participants

This module structure aims to provide a thorough understanding of the grant writing process, from initial research to proposal submission, while also equipping participants with practical skills and resources.

Training Module: Grant Writing Essentials MINI Course


Objective:
To provide a foundational understanding of grant writing, including key components of a grant proposal and best practices for successful submissions. Acquiring advice, tools, information, and connections to author your own grant proposals in order to secure the necessary funding for your goals.

Duration: 4 hours

  • What is Grant Writing?
    Grant writing is the process of creating a proposal to request funding from a grant-making organization or government entity. A successful proposal effectively communicates the need for funding and how the grant will be used to achieve specific goals.

    Why is it Important?
    Effective grant writing can secure funding for projects, programs, or research, allowing organizations to advance their missions and achieve significant outcomes.

    1. Cover Letter
      • Brief introduction to your organization and the project.
      • Contact information and the amount requested.
    2. Executive Summary
      • A concise overview of the project, including objectives, methods, and anticipated outcomes.
      • Should capture the essence of your proposal in a compelling way.
    3. Statement of Need
      • Clearly define the problem or need your project addresses.
      • Use data and evidence to support the significance of the issue.
    4. Project Description
      • Goals and Objectives: What are you aiming to achieve? List specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives.
      • Methods and Activities: Outline how you will achieve these objectives. Describe the strategies, activities, and timeline.
      • Evaluation: Explain how you will measure the success of your project. Include metrics or evaluation methods.
    5. Budget
      • Provide a detailed budget, including line items for personnel, equipment, supplies, and other expenses.
      • Justify each expense and explain how it contributes to the project’s goals.
    6. Organization Information
      • Background on your organization, including its mission, history, and previous achievements.
      • Highlight relevant experience and capacity to manage the grant.
    7. Conclusion
      • Summarize the proposal and restate the funding request.
      • Reinforce the impact the grant will have and express gratitude for the opportunity.
    1. Follow the Guidelines
      • Carefully read and adhere to the funder’s guidelines and application instructions.
      • Ensure all required documents are submitted and formatted as requested.
    2. Be Clear and Concise
      • Use straightforward language and avoid jargon.
      • Focus on clarity and precision in describing your project and budget.
    3. Provide Evidence
      • Support your claims with data, research, and evidence.
      • Include letters of support, if required, to validate your project and partnerships.
    4. Tailor Your Proposal
      • Customize your proposal to align with the funder’s priorities and interests.
      • Show how your project fits within their goals and objectives.
    5. Proofread and Edit
      • Review your proposal for grammar, spelling, and formatting errors.
      • Have someone else read your proposal to catch any issues you might have missed.
    6. Build Relationships
      • Engage with funders before submitting your proposal to understand their priorities and preferences.
      • Attend workshops or networking events to build connections and gather insights.
    • Books: “The Grant Writing Guide” by Kevin L. Smith, “Grant Writing for Dummies” by Beverly A. Browning
    • Online Courses: Coursera, Udemy, and other platforms offer courses on grant writing.
    • Websites: Foundation Center, GrantSpace, and grants.gov provide valuable information and tools.
    • Questions: Personal questions from participants regarding current situations and tips

Conclusion:
Grant writing is both an art and a science. Mastering the components and following best practices will enhance your chances of securing funding. Keep refining your skills and stay informed about funding opportunities and trends.

Training Module: Marketing 101


Objective:
To provide participants with a foundational understanding of marketing principles and strategies. The workshop will cover essential marketing concepts, including market research, target audience identification, branding, and digital marketing, equipping attendees with the skills to create and implement effective marketing plans.

Duration: 3 hours

    • Welcome and introductions
    • Overview of workshop goals and objectives
    • Icebreaker activity: Share your favorite brand and why you like it
    • Definition and importance of marketing
    • Key marketing concepts: the 4 Ps (Product, Price, Place, Promotion)
    • Discussion: How marketing affects businesses and consumers
    • Introduction to market research: methods and tools
    • Identify target audiences
    • Activity: Conducting a basic market research exercise and creating a customer persona
    • Defining branding and its importance in marketing
    • Developing a unique value proposition and brand identity
    • Discussion: Case studies of successful branding strategies
    • Overview of digital marketing channels: social media, email, content marketing, SEO
    • Understanding the basics of creating effective digital marketing campaigns
    • Hands-On Activity: Drafting a simple digital marketing strategy for a sample business
    • Components of a marketing plan: goals, strategies, tactics, budget
    • Activity: Developing a basic marketing plan outline based on the workshop’s learning
    • Introduction to key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics
    • Tools for measuring marketing effectiveness
    • Discussion: How to use data to refine and improve marketing strategies
    • Open floor for questions and discussion
    • Recap of key takeaways
    • Feedback and evaluation

Materials Provided:

  • Worksheets for market research, customer persona creation, and marketing plan development
  • Sample case studies and branding examples
  • List of recommended tools and resources for digital marketing

Training Module: How to Build Your Customer Base


Objective:
To provide participants with practical strategies and actionable steps for growing and expanding their customer base. The workshop will cover essential techniques for attracting, retaining, and engaging customers, including marketing strategies, customer service practices, and leveraging data for growth.

Duration: 3 hours

    • Welcome and introductions
    • Overview of workshop goals and objectives
    • Icebreaker activity: Share one strategy you’ve used to attract customers and its outcome
    • Identifying and defining your ideal customer profile
    • Conducting market research to understand customer needs and preferences
    • Activity: Creating customer personas based on demographic data
    • Overview of marketing channels and techniques (digital marketing, social media, content marketing, email marketing)
    • Crafting a compelling value proposition and unique selling points
    • Hands-On Activity: Developing a basic marketing plan to reach and attract your target audience
    • Techniques for effective customer engagement and communication
    • Implementing a customer loyalty program and retention strategies
    • Discussion: Best practices for personalized customer service and building trust
    • Using data to identify customer behavior, preferences, and trends
    • Tools and metrics for tracking customer acquisition and engagement
    • Activity: Analyzing sample customer data to derive insights for growth
    • The role of networking and strategic partnerships in expanding your customer base
    • Building relationships with complementary businesses and industry influencers
    • Discussion: Identifying potential partners and creating mutually beneficial collaborations
    • Evaluating and optimizing various customer acquisition channels (online, offline, referral programs)
    • Strategies for improving conversion rates and customer acquisition costs
    • Activity: Reviewing and refining your current acquisition channels for better performance
    • Open floor for questions and discussion
    • Recap of key takeaways
    • Feedback and evaluation

Materials Provided:

  • Sample marketing strategies and customer engagement techniques
  • List of recommended tools and resources for customer acquisition and retention

Training Module: Understanding How AI Can Help Your Company: Basics


Objective:
To provide participants with a foundational understanding of how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be leveraged to enhance business operations, improve efficiency, and drive innovation. This workshop will cover key AI concepts, practical applications, and strategies for integrating AI into business processes.

Duration: 3 hours

    • Welcome and introductions
    • Overview of workshop goals and objectives
    • Icebreaker activity: Share your current business challenges and aspirations for AI
    • Definition and types of AI: Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, Robotics, etc.
    • Key AI concepts: algorithms, data, and training models
    • Discussion: How AI differs from traditional software solutions
    • Overview of common AI applications in various industries (e.g., customer service, marketing, finance)
    • Identifying areas in your business where AI can add value
    • Activity: Mapping potential AI use cases to your company’s needs and goals
    • Introduction to popular AI tools and platforms (e.g., chatbots, predictive analytics, recommendation engines)
    • Overview of how to choose the right AI tools for your business
    • Discussion: Evaluating AI tools and vendors
    • Steps to integrate AI into your business processes
    • Best practices for managing AI projects (data preparation, model training, evaluation)
    • Hands-On Activity: Developing a basic AI implementation plan for a selected use case
    • Metrics and KPIs for evaluating the effectiveness of AI solutions
    • Assessing the return on investment (ROI) of AI initiatives
    • Discussion: Strategies for optimizing AI performance and impact
    • Understanding ethical implications of AI (bias, transparency, data privacy)
    • Addressing common challenges and misconceptions about AI
    • Discussion: Building an ethical AI strategy for your business
    • Open floor for questions and discussion
    • Recap of key takeaways
    • Feedback and evaluation

Materials Provided:

  • Overview of AI concepts and applications
  • AI tools and technology resources
  • Sample AI implementation plan template
  • List of recommended AI tools and vendors

Training Module: Hair and Makeup 101


Objective:
To provide participants with foundational skills in hair styling and makeup application, empowering them to enhance their personal appearance and build confidence in their everyday routines. This workshop will cover essential techniques, tools, and tips for creating a variety of professional looks for the workplace.

Duration: 3 hours

    • Welcome and introductions
    • Overview of workshop goals and objectives
    • Icebreaker activity: Share your favorite hair or makeup trend
    • Understanding different hair types and textures
    • Basic hair care routine and maintenance tips
    • Demonstration: Essential hair care products and tools
    • Introduction to common hairstyles (e.g., curls, braids, updos)
    • Step-by-step demonstration of a basic hairstyle
    • Hands-On Activity: Practice creating a basic hairstyle
    • Tips for managing different hair lengths and types
    • Overview of essential makeup products and tools
    • Basic makeup techniques (foundation, concealer, eye makeup, lip color)
    • Demonstration: Applying a simple everyday makeup look
    • Hands-On Activity: Practice applying makeup with guidance
    • Adapting hairstyles and makeup for different occasions (e.g., casual, formal, evening)
    • Group Activity: Discuss and practice creating a look for a specific event or theme
    • Finding the right products and techniques for your unique features
    • Tips for troubleshooting common hair and makeup challenges
    • Open floor for questions and discussion
    • Recap of key takeaways
    • Feedback and evaluation

Materials Provided:

  • Hair and makeup product samples
  • List of recommended tools and products

Training Module: Nutrition Basics


Objective:
To equip participants with foundational knowledge about nutrition and healthy eating practices. The workshop will cover essential nutritional principles, the role of various nutrients, meal planning, and strategies for making healthier food choices to support overall well-being.

Duration: 3 hours

    • Welcome and introductions
    • Overview of workshop goals and objectives
    • Icebreaker activity: Share your favorite healthy meal or snack
    • Basic nutrition principles: macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals)
    • Role of water and fiber in a healthy diet
    • Discussion: How nutrition impacts overall health and wellness
    • Understanding portion sizes and food groups
    • Activity: Building a balanced plate using the MyPlate method
    • How to interpret food labels and ingredient lists
    • Identifying key information: serving sizes, calories, and nutrients
    • Hands-On Activity: Practice reading and analyzing different food labels-different apps that help with reading product labels
    • Tips for effective meal planning and grocery shopping
    • Strategies for incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet
    • Activity: Create a weekly meal plan and shopping list
    • Overview of common dietary restrictions (gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, low-carb)
    • Adapting nutrition advice to fit individual health conditions and preferences
    • Discussion: Addressing specific dietary questions and concerns
    • Setting realistic nutrition goals and building healthy habits
    • Overcoming common obstacles and maintaining motivation
    • Worksheet: Developing a personal action plan for making sustainable dietary changes
    • Open floor for questions and discussion
    • Recap of key takeaways
    • Feedback and evaluation

Materials Provided:

  • Worksheets for meal planning and goal setting
  • List of recommended resources for further reading and tools

Training Module: Cleaning Up Criminal History


Introduction to Restoring and Cleaning Your Criminal History Records

Objective: Understand the types of criminal records and their implications. Understanding how past criminal records will affect progress towards restoration after coming out of domestic violence and other trauma. The steps and action plan needed to start the process of cleaning up your criminal background and restoring your name as you heal and progress to independence and financial freedom..

Duration: 3 hours

  • Brief Overview of all 6 Training Modules

    1. Types of Criminal Records
      • Arrest Records
      • Conviction Records
      • Juvenile Records
      • Expunged/Sealed Records
    2. Implications of Criminal Records
      • Employment Challenges
      • Housing Issues
      • Licensing and Certification Barriers
  • Objective: Learn the legal processes and requirements for cleaning up criminal history.

    1. Definitions and Key Concepts
      • Expungement vs. Sealing
      • Eligibility Criteria
    2. State-Specific Laws and Procedures
      • Overview of General Procedures
      • Examples of State-Specific Requirements (e.g., California, New York, Texas)
    3. Federal vs. State Jurisdiction
      • Federal Record Expungement (e.g., Drug Offenses, Restoring Gun Rights)
      • State Jurisdiction Procedures
  • Objective: Identify who is eligible for expungement or sealing.

    1. General Eligibility Requirements
      • Type of Offense
      • Time Passed Since Conviction
      • Completion of Sentence
      • Proof of Rehabilitation
    2. Special Considerations
      • Juvenile Offenses
      • Cases Involving Multiple Offenses
      • Federal Cases
  • Objective: Understand the step-by-step process of applying for expungement or sealing.

    1. Gathering Documentation
      • Criminal History Report
      • Court Records
      • Proof of Rehabilitation
    2. Filing the Petition
      • Completing the Petition Forms
      • Filing Fees
      • Submitting to the Correct Court
    3. Court Hearings and Procedures
      • Preparing for a Hearing
      • What to Expect During the Hearing
      • Potential Outcomes
  • Objective: Manage and follow up after submitting the application.

    1. Monitoring the Application
      • Checking Status of the Petition
      • Responding to Requests for Additional Information
    2. Understanding the Outcome
      • Receiving the Court’s Decision
      • Next Steps if the Petition is Approved or Denied
    3. Updating Records
      • Ensuring Records are Correctly Expunged or Sealed
      • Notification to Relevant Agencies
  • Objective: Understand the ethical implications and privacy issues involved.

    1. Confidentiality of Records
      • Ensuring Privacy for Clients
      • Handling Sensitive Information
    2. Ethical Responsibilities
      • Providing Accurate Information
      • Avoiding Misrepresentation
  • Objective: Provide additional resources for further assistance and support.

    1. Legal Aid Organizations
      • Overview of Available Resources
      • How to Refer Clients for Further Assistance
    2. Online Tools and Resources
      • Accessing Online Portals for Record Checks
      • Finding Relevant Forms and Instructions
    3. Continuing Education
      • Keeping Up-to-Date with Changes in Laws
      • Professional Development Opportunities
    1. Review Key Takeaways – Review Participants Questions
      • Summary of Important Concepts and Procedures
      • Collecting Trainee Feedback for Module Improvement
    2. Certification of Completion
      • Issuing Certificates to Participants Who Successfully Complete the Training

This structured training module will provide a comprehensive foundation for understanding and managing criminal record expungement and sealing processes. Adapt the content as necessary based on specific state laws and the needs of the trainees.