#Community service and addictions worker diploma online

[pragyacareeradvisor]

Why Choose an Online Community Support Worker Diploma Program?

Choosing a career path is a significant decision. It’s about finding a balance between personal fulfillment and professional growth.

For those drawn to helping others, an addiction community services worker diploma program can be a rewarding choice. This field offers the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives.

In this article, we’ll explore why this program is a valuable educational path. We’ll delve into the benefits and opportunities it presents, particularly in the Canadian context.

We’ll also highlight the convenience and relevance of online learning options. These can provide flexibility for those juggling work, life, and education.

Whether you’re considering a career in addiction and community services, or looking to expand your qualifications, this guide is for you. Let’s embark on this journey together.

Understanding the Role of an Addiction Community Services Worker

An addiction community services worker plays a crucial role in the healthcare system. They provide support to individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues.

Their work involves a range of tasks. These can include conducting client assessments, developing treatment plans, and facilitating group sessions.

They also work closely with other healthcare professionals. This collaboration ensures a comprehensive approach to client care.

In essence, addiction community services workers are the bridge between clients and the resources they need. They help individuals navigate their recovery journey, making a tangible difference in their lives.

The Growing Demand for Trained Professionals

The demand for trained professionals in addiction and mental health services is on the rise. This is due to an increased awareness of mental health issues and the ongoing opioid crisis.

As a result, there’s a growing need for skilled addiction community services workers. These professionals are essential in providing support and care to those affected by addiction.

Increased mental health awareness

Ongoing opioid crisis

Need for skilled professionals

Choosing to pursue an addiction community services worker diploma can open up a world of opportunities. It’s a career path that’s not only rewarding but also in high demand.

Flexibility and Convenience of Online Learning

One of the key benefits of an online addiction community services worker diploma program is its flexibility. This allows you to balance your studies with other commitments, such as work or family.

Online learning also offers the convenience of studying from anywhere. You can access course materials, participate in discussions, and complete assignments at your own pace.

In a world where digital literacy is increasingly important, online education also provides an opportunity to develop these skills. This can be a valuable asset in the modern workplace.

Comprehensive Curriculum and Practical Experience

An addiction community services worker diploma program offers a comprehensive curriculum. It covers a wide range of topics, from understanding addiction to mental health and community services.

The program also integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills. This ensures that you are well-prepared for the challenges of the field.

The curriculum may include courses on:

Understanding addiction and mental health

Community service practices

Crisis intervention

Case management

Legal and ethical issues in addiction services

In addition to coursework, practical experience is a key component of the program. This could be in the form of internships, practicums, or field placements. These provide valuable hands-on experience and a chance to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world setting.

Accreditation and Recognition in Canada

When choosing an online addiction community services worker diploma program, it’s important to consider its accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain standards of quality and relevance.

In Canada, many online programs are recognized and accredited by relevant professional bodies. This recognition adds credibility to your qualification and can enhance your employability.

Moreover, a recognized diploma can open doors to further education and professional development opportunities. It’s a stepping stone to a rewarding career in addiction and community services.

Career Opportunities and Pathways

An addiction community services worker diploma can lead to a variety of career paths. Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to work in diverse settings. These include addiction treatment centers, community health clinics, and social service agencies.

Some of the potential job titles include Addiction Counsellor, Community Service Worker, and Mental Health Support Worker. Each role offers a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on individuals and communities affected by addiction.

Addiction Counsellor

Community Service Worker

Mental Health Support Worker

With further education and experience, graduates can also move into supervisory or management roles. The field offers ample opportunities for career growth and advancement.

Making a Positive Impact in the Community

Choosing a career as an addiction community services worker means choosing to make a difference. Every day, you’ll be helping individuals overcome their struggles with addiction. You’ll be a beacon of hope and a source of support for those in need.

In addition to helping individuals, you’ll also be contributing to the well-being of your community. By helping one person overcome addiction, you’re helping to create a healthier, happier community.

This career is not just about earning a paycheck. It’s about making a positive impact on the world around you.

Financial Investment and Support for Students

Pursuing an addiction community services worker diploma is an investment in your future. While there is a financial cost, the return on investment can be substantial. Not only in terms of potential earnings but also in terms of job satisfaction and impact.

Tuition fees

Books and materials

Potential living expenses

However, financial support is often available for students. This can come in the form of scholarships, grants, or student loans. It’s worth exploring these options to help offset the cost of your education.

Remember, investing in your education is investing in your future. The skills and knowledge you gain from this program will serve you throughout your career in community services.

Entry Requirements and Program Duration

To enroll, The requirement in an addiction community services worker diploma program, you’ll need to meet certain entry requirements. These typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, and sometimes a criminal record check.

The program duration can vary, but most can be completed in one to two years. This allows you to quickly gain the skills and knowledge needed to start your career.

Remember, each program may have its own specific requirements and duration, so it’s important to research and choose the one that best fits your needs.

Why Online Programs are the Future of Education

Online programs, like the addiction community services worker diploma, are becoming increasingly popular. They offer flexibility and convenience that traditional classroom settings often can’t match.

You can study from anywhere, at any time, making it easier to balance your education with work or family commitments. Plus, online learning platforms provide interactive and engaging content, enhancing your learning experience.

In a world where technology is rapidly evolving, online education is a practical and forward-thinking choice. It’s clear that online programs are not just the future of education, they’re the present.

Conclusion: Your Path to a Rewarding Career Starts Here

Choosing an addiction community services worker diploma program is a significant step towards a fulfilling career. It’s a path that combines professional growth with the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives.

The skills and knowledge you gain from this program will equip you to meet the challenges and rewards of working in the field of addiction and community services. You’ll be prepared to help individuals and communities navigate the complexities of addiction and mental health.

So, why wait? Your journey towards a rewarding career in addiction community services starts here. Take the leap and make a positive impact on your community and beyond. For more information Contact

[tafsircareercounselor]

Empowering Change: Community Service Diploma in Toronto Overview

Are you passionate about helping others and making a positive impact in your community? Do you have a strong desire to work in the field of community care and outreach? If so, then the Addictions and Community Service Worker Diploma program at ABM College's Toronto campus may be the perfect fit for you.

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of studying for your diploma on-campus at ABM College's Toronto campus and how it can prepare you for a rewarding career in community service.

Why Choose an On-campus Program?

While online learning has become increasingly popular, there are still many benefits to studying on-campus. Here are a few reasons why you should consider an on-campus program for your Addictions and Community Service Worker Diploma.

Hands-on Learning Experience

by Glenn Carstens-Peters (https://unsplash.com/@glenncarstenspeters)

One of the main advantages of studying on-campus is the hands-on learning experience. In the field of community service, it's essential to have practical skills and experience to effectively support and assist individuals in need.

At ABM College's Toronto campus, you'll have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, allowing you to gain hands-on experience in a simulated work environment. This hands-on learning experience will prepare you for the real-world challenges you may face in your future career.

Face-to-face Interaction with Instructors

Studying on-campus also allows for face-to-face interaction with your instructors. This means you can ask questions, receive immediate feedback, and engage in discussions with your peers and instructors.

In the Addictions and Community Service Worker Diploma program, you'll have the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals who have worked in the field and can provide valuable insights and guidance.

Networking Opportunities

Studying on-campus also provides networking opportunities with your classmates and instructors. These connections can be beneficial in your future career, as you may be able to collaborate on projects, share job opportunities, and receive recommendations.

What Will You Learn in the Addictions and Community Service Worker Diploma Program?

The Addictions and Community Service Worker Diploma program at ABM College's Toronto campus is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the field of community care and outreach.

Here are some of the key topics covered in the program:

Addictions and Mental Health

by Dan Meyers (https://unsplash.com/@dmey503)

The program covers the fundamentals of addictions and mental health, including the different types of addictions, their causes, and the impact they have on individuals and communities. You'll also learn about mental health disorders, their symptoms, and how to support individuals with mental health challenges.

Community Outreach and Support

The program also focuses on community outreach and support, teaching students how to effectively engage with individuals and communities in need. You'll learn about community resources, how to develop and implement outreach programs, and how to provide support to individuals in crisis.

Counselling Techniques

Counselling is a crucial aspect of community service work, and the program covers various counselling techniques and strategies. You'll learn how to conduct assessments, develop treatment plans, and provide counselling to individuals and groups.

Professional Development

In addition to the technical skills, the program also focuses on professional development. You'll learn about ethical and legal considerations in the field, how to maintain professional boundaries, and how to effectively communicate with clients and colleagues.

What Career Opportunities Are Available?

Upon completion of the Addictions and Community Service Worker Diploma program, you'll be prepared for a variety of career opportunities in the field of community service. Here are some of the roles you may pursue:

Community Service Worker

As a community service worker, you'll work directly with individuals and communities in need, providing support, resources, and assistance. You may work in a variety of settings, such as community centers, shelters, or outreach programs.

Addictions Counsellor

As an addictions counsellor, you'll work with individuals struggling with addiction, providing counselling, support, and resources to help them overcome their challenges. You may work in a variety of settings, such as rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or community organizations.

Mental Health Support Worker

As a mental health support worker, you'll work with individuals who have mental health challenges, providing support, resources, and assistance to help them manage their conditions. You may work in a variety of settings, such as mental health clinics, hospitals, or community organizations.

Why Choose ABM College's Toronto Campus?

ABM College's Toronto campus offers a supportive and inclusive learning environment, with experienced instructors and state-of-the-art facilities. Here are some of the reasons why you should choose ABM College for your Addictions and Community Service Worker Diploma.

Experienced Instructors

At ABM College, you'll learn from experienced professionals who have worked in the field of community service and have a wealth of knowledge to share. They'll provide you with practical insights and guidance to help you succeed in your future career.

Hands-on Learning Experience

As mentioned earlier, ABM College's Toronto campus offers a hands-on learning experience, allowing you to gain practical skills and experience in a simulated work environment. This experience will prepare you for the challenges you may face in your future career.

Career Services

ABM College offers career services to help students prepare for their future careers. This includes resume and cover letter writing, job search assistance, and interview preparation. The college also has partnerships with various organizations, providing students with job placement opportunities.

Conclusion

If you're passionate about making a positive impact in your community and want to pursue a career in community service, then the Addictions and Community Service Worker Diploma program at ABM College's Toronto campus is the perfect choice for you. With experienced instructors, hands-on learning, and a supportive learning environment, you'll be well-prepared for a rewarding career in community care and outreach.

[freeworldallahmbaclass]

I'm the greatest comeback ever

I got hotels for the homeless in New York City 2021

I got Amazon workers their union contract

I got Starbucks workers their union contract

I got the minimum wage increased from $ 11 dollars an hour to $ 15 dollars to $ 17 dollars an hour

I got the fair chance to compete for a job act of 2019 in New York City and California hopefully other cities and countries are going to follow suit

I legalized marijuana in New York City

I cleaned up fox square in Brooklyn , NY

Free college education in New York City

Free gym membership for people on Medicare

Citi bikes for New Yorkers

Benefit monetary assistance increase for snap and cash assistance recipients

Rikers Island tablet program podcasts and video games for inmates in jail to help stop crime violent crime in prison and to help rehabilitate the guy or woman and stop the back and forth of them going to jail . The tablet have podcasts and programs for Job Search legal research and books to read to help them become better citizens in the free society .

Laws I'm proposing

Job Safety and secure act - 2022

Fair banking act - 2022

Retirement investment plan for employees IRA act - 2022

Ready , willing and able Expansive territory act - 2023

Riverside drive Expansion project act - 2023

The new ferry from New Jersey to New York City - 2023

School sports culture expansion Act Copperas Cove , Texas

Rikers Island schooling expansion act Added on Basic education classes on Rikers Island on the tablet , college programs on the program , online school on the Tablet . -2023

NYCHA ( New York City Housing projects ) plans and ideas for improvement

The New Trench town rock - 2021 , 2022 , 2023

And many other pitches and proposals rebuilding the workforce , wages and structure of New York city and cities like New York .

Next order of business : My Plans for infrastructure in a utopian society hotels jobs pay raise on citizens paycheck from 15 $ - 17 $ dollars minimum wage pay to 19$ dollars to 20$ dollars an hour to better provide for all costs emergencies uncovered insurance payments due to partial health care coverage and full union membership granted to employees of any company free education grants and school loans payment plans

Pay raise for school teachers in every city at junior high school , high school and elementary school level since they are stewards of our children's future .

Pay raise for civil service workers and Civil service exams made and updated daily to the public , school crossing guards , correction officers , supervisors , probation officers , construction site supervisors .

Pay raise for day care workers

Free day care services for temporarily unemployed mothers and fathers

Pay raise for city fire fighters and police officers .

Job contractors fulfilling contracts with back to work public assistance programs that train and employ job candidates without their high school diploma or GED and granting them full employment with full medical and medicare coverage union membership and back to school Acces Vocational rehabilitation counseling and restoration of financial aid assistance for non violent crimes like drug sellers and abusers to stop recidivism to prison and to cure an addiction to a habit of committing perpetual crimes thus creating repeat offenders .

Jobs moving back to inner cities through the effort of study and research groups from urban planning courses from their neighboring colleges .

Tax abatement and financial incentives and business incentives and tax breaks .

Joe Biden and vice president Kamala Harris should include this law into all of their plan for cleaning up America I'm glad to see it go beyond New York City and other counties in New York I want to share this honor with author Michelle Alexander who I did my research from her book about mass incarceration of the black and Latino community and the political office and my friends that help put this law in place I reached out to hopefully stop the recidivism to prison and hopefully to help some of my friends and people that go back and forth to jail because they couldn't get a job due to the felonies on their record I recommend a certificate of relief of disabilities to all people returning to society if they haven't given you one go get it from your county's or borough courthouse it works wonders .

Next order of business : Tax cuts to help the everyday person keep more of their check in their pockets cut the tax rates in New York City by 4 percent I see it as New York State taxes % 8.82 to % 4 percent and business tax cuts to create more jobs Proposal For a Wage increase of $ 22 dollars an hour Including : Fire safety directors Security guards Librarians Fed Ex workers UPS workers Ready Willing and able with free vocational grants from access vr programs they should hire vocational rehabilitation counselors and job developers finding permanent housing and permanent job placement after the clients training Stock Clerks and cashier's at major stores like Gristedes , C Town , met foods , Burlington coat factory wage increase for all warehousing and factory workers jack pallet and forklift training for people with no experience and a starting salary at $ 17 - 19 $ dollars an hour and it increase with more time on the job how about the first year at that base salary of $ 17 - 19 $ dollars and on the even of that year the employee gets an raise of $ 2 dollars more on their check and other financial incentives as cash allocation from their check for newly place employee mutual fund packages besides with other benefits that said company is offering this helps to place that company on the stock market because of the huge huge employee buy in it is like employers investing in their employees their stores and company .

Educational requirements for jobs posted is less than a high school diploma but the job candidate has to be in a vocational program or GED preparation course half or full time hours .

Civil service jobs and exams posted weekly .

Sales professional salary plus commission on sales and stock options for mutual funds packages as bonuses with an wage increase to $ 19 dollars to $ 21 dollars an hour .

Newly added benefits to a job description benefits an employer on jobs posted give to their employees an employer get to hold back cash or take money out of an employees check to put towards a mutual funds stock fund option to help that client make more money as a second job the municipals funds and stock and funds and stock and then you gotta get hedge funds option packaged in to help the employees money make more money for them talk about overtime whew and at the same time that local market and store owner can put his company on the stock market and give out public shares thus in the end making it a good investment a regular place of shopping in a family like environment it is like getting to know your deli clerk , butcher , bakery attendant again only this time you are making money with the people you are spending money with Think about it that in turns build better communities better stores customer relationships safer neighborhoods and the beautifying of economically depressed environments more money for your kids college tuition school supplies newer roads being built leading to and from better neighborhoods and businesses and this is a future that we all as fellow New Yorkers can build together .

The story is that 50 Cent kind of dropped a hint to me on wanting to help cure the Aids epidemic in Africa and I heard it and I proposed it to send the cure for aids in Africa to the people in Africa infected with HIV Aids and this is the news headlines in March 2023 of it going through another accomplishment on my list of accomplishment thank you so much and they should be continuing sending it to Africa daily every day week month and years for generations and generations from now on a continuous basis that would be the right thing to do true humanity

Check the news on CNN The US helped prevent AIDS from being a death sentence in Africa . The us is me and 50 Cent the rapper from his hit show power .

We did it congratulations on the cure for Aids in Africa .

The US helped prevent AIDS from being a death Sentence in Africa

Check the news on CNN on ending HIV Aids in Africa with the cure and new medicine Cabenuva HIV medicine that cures HIV Aids like the common cold and any other kind of communicable diseases

We did it congratulations on the cure for Aids in Africa .

The US helped prevent AIDS from being a death Sentence in Africa .

Cabenuva the new HIV Medicine is the cure for HIV Aids it knocks out HIV Aids like the common cold please send it to Africa to help heal the people .

[missmentelle]

Hi. I’m reading your FAQ page and see that you’ve listed the suicide crises in First Nation communities as something you know about but rarely get asked about. As a fellow Canadian, I’d love to hear, based on your experiences, what’s helping the most in these communities? (Including but not limited to any recommendations for agencies accepting charitable donations.) Thanks!

Figuring out how to solve the suicide crisis among Canada’s First Nations communities, particularly Northern communities, is more of a PhD thesis than a Tumblr ask - there are no simple solutions here, and I certainly don’t have all the answers. This is more of a systemic issue than a matter of charitable donations; the issues in these communities are deep and complex, and what’s needed is widespread policy change, rather than intervention from charitable agencies. A lot of this crisis is deeply rooted in the fact that First Nations communities have been intentionally prevented from becoming self-sufficient and have been forced into a position of dependency on the federal government - trying to fight this crisis with charitable donations is well-meaning, but ultimately makes the issues of dependency and lack of autonomy even worse. 

The specific needs and issues of First Nations people vary from community to community, and I am certainly not in a position to speak for any of them, or make absolute statements about what they need to solve this crisis. However, many reserves and bands have been pretty vocal about what is needed to reduce the poverty and despair in their communities - and by extension, alleviate the mental health issues. Some of the big things include:

Giving First Nations communities autonomy over their own lands. Under Canadian law, reserves are considered “crown lands” - they technically belong to the Federal government, and individuals are not allowed to own the land they live on. Again, this issue is way more complicated than can be covered in a Tumblr post, but not owning land means that homeowners cannot take out mortgages and loans, since they have nothing to offer as collateral to secure the loan - so if they want to build a house, they have to offer 100% of the building costs up front, something that most people can’t afford to do. The result is that many First Nations families live in outdated homes that are not up to building code and are dangerously crowded. Not owning the land they live on also means that First Nations people cannot build equity, and face enormous obstacles in trying to start businesses - reserve land cannot be used as collateral, which can make it next to impossible for people on reserves to get the kinds of business start-up financing that other Canadians can get. Moving off reserve is also a lot easier said than done; many reserves are quite remote, and leaving is expensive. The lack of opportunity on reserves makes it difficult for First Nations people to secure the skills and work experience needed to compete in the job market, and starting over in a new city with no connections and no money is not necessarily going to improve your situation at all. Again, the solutions here are complicated - implementing private property on reserves is not a cure-all and is not necessarily the best solution - but the current situation is unworkable, and is contributing to a severe housing and economic crisis. 

Implementing high-speed internet access on reservations. This is actually a project that is being worked on now, but many remote and Northern communities in Canada have only the most basic of internet access. This is hugely crippling for those communities; it contributes to their isolation, restricts education and economic opportunities, and puts them even further behind in a job market that is increasingly tech-savvy. Implementing high-speed internet access also gives First Nations people improved access to mental health and medical professionals via Skype, or other forms of online communication.

Improved access to mental health and addiction services in remote communities. It is incredibly difficult to get mental health and addictions workers to actually stay in remote communities long-term - the conditions in these communities are harsh, the cost of living is high, and in the case of Northern communities, not everyone is equipped to deal with the “six straight months of darkness, six straight months of sunlight” thing that happens in the far north. Instead, most of these communities rely on “fly-in, fly-out” professionals, which are exactly what they sound like. A professional will fly into the community, stay for a few weeks to try to deal with the mental health crisis, and then fly out again, with a new person flying in to take their place. This makes it extremely difficult for people in these communities to get any continuity of care, and makes it all but impossible to develop a strong therapeutic relationship with one care provider. Creating much greater incentives for professionals to stay in these communities long-term and training people within these communities to provide services is something that’s sorely needed. 

Addressing the water crises on reserves. Many reserves and remote communities do not have access to clean drinking water, which is absolutely unacceptable in a nation that has the world’s largest supply of fresh drinking water. There are reservations that have been under “boil water” advisories since the early 1990s, which is unacceptable - there are First Nations people who are nearly thirty years old and have never been able to safely drink the water that comes out of their taps. This is hugely degrading for people who live in these conditions, it has caused numerous health issues and generally worsened the quality of life for people in these communities, and it underscores the pain that these communities feel at having their deep connections to the land severed and being treated as second-class citizens in their own homeland. Resolving this crisis needs to be a priority. 

Closing the First Nations education gap. Schools in First Nations communities are grossly underfunded compared to non-First Nations schools. As a result, First Nations schools struggle to attract and keep qualified staff, they struggle to meet the needs of an often deeply traumatized student body, and they generally struggle to provide the same caliber of education that other Canadian parents expect from their children’s schools. In urban environments, First Nations students attending mainstream public schools often face discrimination and don’t have access to the services that they need to thrive. As a result, graduation rates among First Nations youth are abysmal - 61% of First Nations people in Canada do not earn a high school diploma or equivalent by their 25th birthday. First Nations people who do graduate from underfunded First Nations schools are often well behind their peers who graduate from non-First Nations schools, which leaves them struggling to keep up when they attend university. Only 8% of First Nations adults hold a university degree, compared to 23% of the general Canadian population, and that number is even bleaker when look at First Nations people living on reservations. Not providing First Nations children with the education and the services that they need can leave them at a lifelong disadvantage, and contributes hugely to mental health issues and despair. 

Ending housing and employment discrimination. First Nations people face huge amounts of discrimination when it comes to applying for jobs or looking for housing in urban areas. Even having an obviously First Nations name can get your application thrown in the trash, and First Nations people who do land interviews for jobs and apartments often find that they are treated much more harshly as soon as they show up in person and their First Nations identity is discovered. Landlords will often demand extra documentation, demand months of rent payments up-front, or ask insulting questions about the First Nations applicant’s drinking habits. Facing discrimination when you are trying to land a job or find an apartment is humiliating and degrading, and ultimately contributes to despair and mental health issues. Stronger protections for First Nations people are needed, and more resources are needed for people who’ve faced discrimination to report their experience and receive recourse. 

Detangling hundreds of years of oppression, intergenerational trauma and systemic racism is not an easy task. There are no quick fixes here, and I haven’t even touched on all the issues that these communities face - there is the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women crisis, domestic violence crises, police brutality, discrimination in the justice system, food insecurity, and so much more. I don’t have all the answers here. But I do know that we as Canadians need to decide that this is a priority. All of us - not just those of us with direct ties to these communities - need to decide that it’s fucking unacceptable that we let this happen in our country, and we need to make this an issue that we fight for. Canadian children are dying at their own hands by the hundreds; apathy is not an option. This needs to be an issue that decides elections. This needs to matter. MM

[howwelldoyouknowyourmoon]

Starting Out in Mainstream America

by Livia Bardin

This is an online resource, made available by ICSA, for people who have left cults, their families and friends, and professionals working to help them.

Starting Out is a compendium of information ranging from practical needs like how to get a photo ID or a copy of a high school diploma, to cultural catch-up, like types of popular music or quotations from classic movies, to concepts like relationships with others.  There are detailed sections on basics like health, education, careers, and money management, as well as consumer tips on subjects from housing to selecting a doctor or counselor.  Sections on “Parenting After the Cult” and “Teenagers on Their Own,” focus on the needs of younger people who have left cults.  Though oriented to those living in the U.S., Starting Out contains much that will be useful to people in all countries.

Author Livia Bardin, M.S.W., is a social worker who has specialized in research on cults and the experiences  of cult victims.  Her book, Coping with Cult Involvement, focuses on families with loved ones in cults. Her research on the experiences of children in cults has been published in in the Cultic Studies Review and the Journal of Public Child Welfare.

Available online only, Starting Out is accessible to anyone and sections are downloadable free of charge. Users are prohibited from selling or charging for information downloaded from the site.

All links are to the International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) website.

Welcome to

Starting Out in Mainstream America

Contents

GETTING INFORMATION

The public library and its resources

The Internet: Key search engines, social networking

Protecting yourself online

Information overload

DOCUMENTS AND PAPERS

Documents you might need and how to get them: Birth certificate, photo ID, social security card, and others

Tips for dealing with state and federal agencies

Protecting your identity

HOUSING AND UTILITIES

Shelters and other temporary housing

Renting basics: Location, safety, affordability

Assistance with housing costs

Utilities: Water, electricity, and gas; heating and cooling, telephone, TV

Getting essential furniture and equipment

GETTING AROUND

Local and long distance public transportation

Personal transportation: bicycles

Buying or renting a vehicle

Insurance and licenses

MAIL AND PACKAGES

Post office boxes

Mailing options, packages, money orders

Commercial mailing and shipping services: UPS, FedEx

EDUCATION

Post-high school options

Choosing a school

Paying for your education

JOBS AND CAREERS

Employer and employee responsibilities

Career planning

Finding openings

Job applications, resumes and interviews

Unemployment insurance

MONEY AND BUDGETING

Income

Banking

Budgeting

Bill-paying

Borrowing & lending

Public assistance

Taxes

Protecting yourself from theft and scams

HEALTH AND SELF CARE

Elements of physical and emotional health

Lifestyle issues: Smoking, alcohol and drug use

Addiction

GETTING HEALTH CARE

Health insurance basics

Help for those without insurance

Basic health care services

Evaluating health care providers

Resources for information about specific health problems

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Communication basics

Sending and receiving messages

Conversations

Conflicts

Apologies Communication

BOUNDARIES AND RELATIONSHIPS

Why boundaries?

Types of boundaries

Relationships, healthy and risky

Boundaries in relationships

RIGHTS

What is a “right?”

U.S. rights: Children’s and parents’ rights; victims’ rights

The United Nations and rights Rights

ABUSE AND NEGLECT

Types of maltreatment

How to help a victim or possible victim

Abuse and neglect investigations

PARENTING AFTER THE CULT

Ideas for helping children with you to adjust to their new life

Suggestions for staying in touch with children you left behind

Basic information about custody issues

TEENAGERS ON THEIR OWN

Age of majority

Services and shelters

Legal issues

Child Protective Services and court involvement

MAINSTREAM CULTURE

Movies, music, the media

Sports, hobbies and pastimes

Fine arts

Religion and spirituality

Shopping

CIVIC LIFE

How to get the most out of being an American

Getting government to work for you

Influencing government decisions

Voting

Jury duty Civic Life

Exit Counseling and Conflict Resolution – Michael D. Langone

Who Joins Cults? … Deception-Dependency-Dread

We Weren’t Crazy: We Were Fooled