NEW ORLEANS — For more than 25 years, a nonprofit in Algiers has provided resources to its community offering paid career training programs.
From a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program to film and television industry training, Old Algiers Main Street Corporation hopes to remove education and workforce barriers in efforts to build a stronger community.
"So we're trying to really address the wraparound standpoint," said Aaron Jackson of Old Algiers Main Street Corporation."
He said having career opportunities that pay living wages is important for financial stability.
"We want to make sure that people have incomes and jobs that they can go to and not just get by or required to work a second or third but actually have a career track that allows them to provide for themselves."
The CNA program is a part of its "#EquityRising program" which helps to prepare those who are interested in a career track in the medical field. The film industry program helps participants learn grip and electric or costuming in film or television productions.
"We pay a stipend to each student while participating in the training program, whether that's film industry training or medical training," Jackson said.
And it's free to sign up for those ages 16 to 40 years old who reside in the Whitney, McDonogh, and Algiers Point neighborhoods.
Recently, 10 students graduated from the film and industry program, earning a certificate that qualifies them for future jobs.
"The class instructors were very hands-on with us as beginners," said Tehya Dickerson, a participant in the 10-day training course. "What was most exciting was visiting local film and television sets where we were able to see firsthand what it is like in the field," she said.
Dickerson said during the program she was able to connect with talented and well-established individuals.
Old Algiers Main Street also supports small businesses in the area. They've hosted workshops to help owners overcome the challenges of sustaining their business.
"So we talk about things like accounting practices, tax behavior, some of the different licenses and permits that are necessary in order to operate your business," Jackson explained.
In the works is an affordable housing outreach initiative. The non-profit held a focus group in June where Algiers residents gave their thoughts about affordable housing and solutions to address the issue. Leadership from various neighborhood associations attended the community session.
"Old Algiers Main Street is an organization that's really working to bring solutions that allow for a thriving, sustainable, and economically viable community," Jackson said.
The next session for the CNA training and Film Career program begins in the fall. Those interested in participating can apply here.
Old Algiers Main Street Film Career Training Program
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