Computer Classes at Project Self-Sufficiency

Project Self-Sufficiency will be offering a variety of computer classes in July, including a basic introduction to personal computers, an introductory class in Microsoft Excel, an advanced course in Microsoft Word, a Quickbooks class, and courses designed specifically for seniors and for men. All classes will take place in the agency’s Career Center, which is located at 127 Mill St. in Newton. The fee for each Microsoft and Quickbooks course is $10; the remaining workshops are free.

Students must be registered Family Success Center or Project Self-Sufficiency participants. 

A basic introduction to personal computers will be offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays, July 10–26, from 9 a.m. to noon and from 6–9 p.m. This introductory course is designed for first-time computer users or people with limited computer experience. Students will learn computer basics, including the different components of the computer and the performance of simple procedures.  Fundamental keyboarding skills and a brief overview of popular software applications, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook will also be discussed.  

Seniors are invited to attend “Better with Technology” on Fridays, July 6–20, from 9 a.m.–noon. Participants will learn how to set up an email account and safely navigate the internet.

A course in Quickbooks Accounting Software will be offered on Fridays, July 13–Aug. 24, from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Students will learn how to organize personal or business finances, track orders and payments, generate invoices, monitor and manage expenses and produce sophisticated reports and sales forecasts. 

An advanced course in Microsoft Word will be offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, July 9–25, 9 a.m.–noon, and Tuesdays and Thursdays, July 10–26, 6–9 p.m.  Students will learn word-processing techniques, including the creation of professional-looking letters, faxes, newsletters and other documents, as well as the use of mail merge features used to print address labels and address letters to multiple recipients.  Participation in the introductory level Microsoft Word course is required prior to registration in the advanced class.

Those interested in learning about Microsoft Excel are encouraged to attend an introductory class on Mondays and Wednesdays, July 9–25, from 9 a.m.–noon, or on Tuesdays and Thursdays, July 10–26, from 6–9 p.m. Instruction will center on the creation of spreadsheets, databases and workbooks for use in tracking inventory, sorting data and creating mailing lists. Students will learn how to add, subtract, multiply and divide rows and columns using formulas and become adept at storing, managing and interpreting data. Students must complete the introductory level Microsoft Excel class before registration in the advanced course.

Microsoft Employment Lab for Men, a special class which introduces basic keyboarding skills and touches on Microsoft applications, will be held on Wednesdays, from 6–9 p.m., July 11–25. The course will also explore the development of resumes and cover letters.

“Financial Management” seminars are held on alternate Thursdays, from 1–2 p.m.  Participants will learn how to manage a budget, set financial goals, and explore financial credit issues and bank accounts.  

Project Self-Sufficiency’s Career Center also offers instruction to participants on job search and networking techniques, the preparation of cover letters and resumes, and basic skills for use in interviewing, salary negotiation and the acquisition of workplace etiquette. Help with obtaining a GED, career counseling and assessment, job start and job search services are also available. These informational sessions are offered at convenient day and evening times.  Interested participants are encouraged to call 973-940-3500 for a schedule.

The fee for each Microsoft and Quickbooks course is $10; all other classes are free.  All computer classes at the agency are open to registered Family Success Center and Project Self-Sufficiency participants. To inquire about eligibility, or to find out more about the computer courses or career fairs offered at Project Self-Sufficiency, call 973-940-3500.