Has your office changed over the years?

My grandfather worked for a health care company and had a secretary who took dictation, typed up his correspondence, and answered his phone. I imagine that office would have had a mimeograph machine and lots of paper files. He could not have imagined how technological advances would change basic office functions.

CCSC's office has changed with technology over the years, allowing us to manage our work flow more and more efficiently. 

A few years ago, we realized the software in our program areas had become dated and wasn't providing the depth of information needed.  So we are launching new software for our two food pantries, and then rolling it out in the employment and youth services areas this fall. Once established, it will give us higher quality data in client trends and demographics, which helps us to better serve the clients.

Right now, our volunteers and staff are slogging through learning the new system. I was just visiting with two volunteers about the project, and instead of groaning about the extra time it's taking to learn, they noted out how much this will enhance our services.  They have a fabulous attitude.

The machine below would have been in my grandfather's office. I learned to type on this machine, yet my children have never seen one. It was for sale earlier this year at CCSC's Sunshine Resale Shop.

Today was a graduation day

Today we graduated a class from the Martha's Way program. (Click here to learn more about this program: (http://www.ccschouston.org/Programs_Marthas_Way.html). 

I attended the graduation and loved being there.  One graduate has already started her housekeeping business, so our classes gave her new skills to propel it forward.  Another student is the third in her family to graduate from this program, and she exuded confidence in building her business. Yet another student is a refugee who is newly settled in the United States. He is soaking up all the educational opportunities available to him.

How can you help these graduates?  Look at the picture below of cleaning supplies. Does it make your heart sing at the happy thought of cleaning your house?  Not me.  I hired a Martha's Way graduate years ago to help keep our home clean. Interested? Get on our website (see above link) to fill out a homeowner form or email our staff at training@ccschouston.org to start the process of hiring one of our graduates.  You'll not only be freeing up your time but also hiring someone who is eager to work and improve their family's financial future.