About RJI
At the Refill Jackson Initiative (RJI), we envision a healthier, wealthier Jackson for everyone. To achieve that vision, we empower young adults seeking an improved quality of life, through tailored support and job training.
We recognize that being “job ready” means more than just possessing the ability to apply for a job and be hired. In order to be successful in the workforce, any employee must have:
- Adequate education and financial understanding,
- Reliable transportation,
- Childcare (if applicable),
- Stable physical and mental health,
- Identity documents,
- A network of support, and
- A range of soft skills—good work ethic, communication and problem-solving skills, time management, anger management, self-confidence, the ability to accept and learn from criticism.
Intentionally located in West Jackson, RJI’s training programs give young adults (our “members”) the time, space, and guidance to learn and practice these critical job and life skills. We also work with members individually to address their unique barriers to entering the workforce.
Workforce Training Cohort (9-week program)
Our evidence-based program approach combines classroom learning with on-the-job training (OJT). In the classroom, members explore their interests and how they align with possible careers; practice interviewing and communicating professionally via text, email and phone; create personal budgets; learn about conflict resolution and anger management; and write a resume and cover letter.
For OJT, members work alongside a Refill employee at external sites. OJT gives members the opportunity to put into practice what they learned and discussed in theory in the classroom, in an environment where it is acceptable to make a mistake, get feedback, and try again.
By graduation, members can earn a Smart Start certificate or credential (which counts as course credit in Mississippi’s community college system) and a National Career Readiness Certificate. Members can also study for their high school equivalency and driver’s license exam.
Refill Jackson Green Corps (5-month AmeriCorps program)
We also offer a longer-term workforce training program, Refill Jackson Green Corps – a team-based AmeriCorps program where members serve for 5 months. The program includes training on basic construction, environmental, and disaster response skills, including earning credentials from Hinds Community College including OSHA-10 and First Aid/CPR, courses in worksite safety, basic tool identification, and power tool usage and maintenance, and water quality monitoring from Mississippi State University Extension Services.
Once trained, RJGC teams will complete environmental restoration and disaster mitigation projects on residential and public properties in West Jackson, applying learned skills to improve the safety, livability, and resilience of West Jackson. Projects may include water quality monitoring in the Pearl River watershed, improvement of public parks and waterways, residential cleanup for low-income, elderly, and residents with disabilities, energy efficiency projects, and flood and stormwater mitigation projects.
RJGC members will also receive wrap around support from our social services team, and career coaching and exploration, in addition to benefits of serving as an AmeriCorps member, including a $5,000 living stipend while serving, earning a $1,956 Segal Education Award upon completion of the program, and eligibility for student loan deferment and/or forbearance while serving. Team Leader opportunities are available as well – TLs serve for 10 months, receive a $14,000 living stipend and health insurance, can earn a $5,176.50 Segal Education Award upon completion of service, and eligibility for student loan deferment and/or forbearance while serving.
All of our programs are designed for young people to discover their strengths, receive support and coaching to minimize barriers to employment, and create a realistic plan toward their individual next best steps toward self sufficiency. Refill Jackson Initiative welcomes each member as they are, which makes the path forward different for everyone. 78% of Refill graduates immediately move into employment, internships, or further education, which may include completing a GED, entering a collegiate or credential program, or specialized workforce training.
We believe—and our research holds—that our work not only has an immediate impact on our members but also long-term, positive effects on their children, other family members, peer groups, and the community at large.
See our impact to date here: RJI Impact Report
To learn more about our building and founding, please click here.
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