The Sewa Empower project is initiated in 2021 by the Sewa Bay Area chapter. The mission of this project is to provide personal and professional development training and support to anyone looking for a second chance to successfully transition to college/ career.

Even with credentials that permit entry into the California college system and/or careers, they face challenges around inadequate personal and/or professional skills that allow them to work and compete successfully in a college or career setting. Sewa Empower will provide purpose-driven personalized training and mentoring through hands-on workshops and community engagement.

Trainers, mentors, and volunteers will assist participants build a personal/professional portfolio including a resume, LinkedIn Profile, personal statement, set SMART goals, manage stress and maintain work-life balance, use efficient time management and planning tools, practice interview techniques and effective communication/ public speaking, etc. Workshops are tailored to meet the specific needs of each cohort.

One of the pilot benefactors of this project are students from San Jose Conservation Corps and Charter School (SJCCCS ), a division of the Youth Build AmeriCorps program. SJCCCS provides high school diploma and job training to underserved youth between the ages of 17 ½ -27 years. They report higher than expected dropout or challenges to successful transition following their time at SJCCCS due to many factors. Sewa Empower will offer training, mentorship, and support to participants from SJCCCS to build their professional portfolio for successful transition to college and/or careers.