CT Department of Labor

Hey friends!

As some of you know, I was laid off from my job back in June (yes, just another statistic to add to the nation's unemployment standings). During this time I've been collecting unemployment benefits and, of course, seeking a new job. I figured I'd do my job search thing and they'd leave me alone and just send me my checks. WRONG! Last week, I received a letter from the Connecticut Department of Labor telling me that I had to attend their three hour long "Enhanced Re-employment Services Program" at the Bridgeport CT Works center or I would lose my unemployment benefits.

"Great", I thought, "three hours of my life wasted that I'll never get back".

Today was my assigned day to be there and I figured I'd go through the motions, they would waste my time and at best, I'd get to keep those checks coming in.

I am pleased to say that I could not have been more wrong. I'm still going to get my check every week but it was not a waste of my time. The class was very informative and I had no idea the amount of free programs out there to aid people in looking for a job. There is all sorts of free training, free classes, free assessment testing, resume help, etc. out there and it is all paid for by the Department of Labor. The best thing about it is you don't even have to be unemployed to take advantage of it! It's out there for anyone and everyone, so I suggest you not let this opportunity to either find a job or help advance your current career pass you by.

I left there very impressed and even signed up for a few classes myself.

Here is a link to this month's classes. There is plenty more that you can also access by stopping down and speaking to someone one-on-one.

http://www.ctdol.state.ct.us/bridgept/bridgecal.htm

Good luck!