Computer Classes offered during August at Project Self-Sufficiency

Project Self-Sufficiency will be offering a variety of computer classes in August, including a basic Introduction to Personal Computers, an advanced class in Microsoft Excel, an introductory course in Microsoft Word, 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 Street in Newton.   The fee for each Microsoft 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, August 7th – 23rd, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and from 6:00 – 9:00 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, August 3rd – 17th, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.  Participants will learn how to set up an email account and safely navigate the internet.

An introductory course in Microsoft Word will be offered on Mondays and Wednesdays, August 6th – 22nd, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., and Tuesdays and Thursdays, August 7th – 28th, 6:00 - 9:00 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 more about Microsoft Excel are encouraged to attend an advanced class on Mondays and Wednesdays, August 6th – 22nd, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., or on Tuesdays and Thursdays, August 7th – 28th, from 6:00 – 9:00 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 6:00 – 9:00 p.m., August 1st – 29th.  The course will also explore the development of resumes and cover letters.

“Financial Management” seminars are held on alternate Thursdays, from 1:00 – 2:00 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 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.