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Dear Parents With Young Children in Church
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Did you know that THIS Sunday, September 29 is our quarterly Family Worship Day? No? Well, you do now. :) If you scroll down to the KidsLife Ministry News section, you can read a little more about it. Last week this blog post by a mother was brought to my attention thanks to one of our members, Wendy. I've reprinted it below because I think it fits fantastically with what's going on this Sunday, another God-thing, certainly! I have fond memories of growing up here at Calvary and remember sitting through the worship services. I thank God every day for the patience of my parents and the adults around me and certainly Pastor Howard!
The original posting can be found here or here. See you next week. -Matt You are doing something really, really important. I know it's not easy. I see you with your arms overflowing, and I know you came to church already tired. Parenting is tiring. Really tiring. I watch you bounce and sway trying to keep the baby quiet, juggling the infant car seat and the diaper bag as you find a seat. I see you wince as your child cries. I see you anxiously pull things out of your bag of tricks to try to quiet them. And I see you with your toddler and your preschooler. I watch you cringe when your little girl asks an innocent question in a voice that might not be an inside voice let alone a church whisper. I hear the exasperation in your voice as you beg your child to just sit, to be quiet as you feel everyone's eyes on you. Not everyone is looking, but I know it feels that way. I know you're wondering, is this worth it? Why do I bother? I know you often leave church more exhausted than fulfilled. But what you are doing is so important. When you are here, the church is filled with a joyful noise. When you are here, the Body of Christ is more fully present. When you are here, we are reminded that this worship thing we do isn't about bible study or personal, quiet contemplation but coming together to worship as a community where all are welcome, where we share in the Word and Sacrament together. When you are here, I have hope that these pews won't be empty in 10 years when your kids are old enough to sit quietly and behave in worship. I know that they are learning how and why we worship now, before it's too late. They are learning that worship is important. I see them learning. In the midst of the cries, whines, and giggles, in the midst of the crinkling of pretzel bags and the growing pile of crumbs, I see a little girl who insists on going two pews up to share peace with someone she's never met. I hear a little boy slurping (quite loudly) every last drop of his communion wine out of the cup, determined not to miss a drop of Jesus. I watch a child excitedly color a cross and point to the one in the front of the sanctuary. I hear the echos of "Amens" just a few seconds after the rest of the community says it together. I watch a boy just learning to read try to sound out the words in the worship book or count his way to Hymn 672. Even on weeks when I can't see my own children learning because, well, it's one of those mornings, I can see your children learning. I know how hard it is to do what you're doing, but I want you to know it matters. It matters to me. It matters to my children to not be alone in the pew. It matters to the congregation to know that families care about faith, to see young people... and even on those weeks when you can't see the little moments, it matters to your children. It matters that they learn that worship is what we do as a community of faith, that everyone is welcome, that their worship matters. When we teach children that their worship matters, we teach them that they are enough right here and right now as members of the church community. They don't need to wait until they can believe, pray or worship a certain way to be welcome here, and I know adults who are still looking to be shown that. It matters that children learn that they are an integral part of this church, that their prayers, their songs, and even their badly (or perfectly-timed, depending on who you ask) cries and whines are a joyful noise because it means they are present. I know it's hard, but thank you for what you do when you bring your children to church. Please know that your family -- with all of its noise, struggle, commotion, and joy -- are not simply tolerated, you are a vital part of the community gathered in worship.
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Guatemala 2014 Updates
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Get ready for some golf!
This is your last opportunity to sign up for the golf outing to be held THIS Saturday, September 28 at Deercreek Golf Course. Pray for mild, dry weather for us so we can enjoy our day at the links fellowshipping with each other. It's going to be a fun day! Won't you consider joining us? We have room for you as a single or a foursome. See Gary Deckinga, Denny Dryfhout, or John Voss for information.
Advance Notice: Our Love Offering for the communion service on October 6 will be taken to benefit Hearts in Motion. All monies collected will be sent straight to Hearts in Motion as a donation to their ministry. Specifically, we hope to help them purchase construction materials needed for their various building projects, but also we would like to help them purchase breathing kits for newborn babies. These kits are needed to aid birthing assistants who encounter a newborn with breathing difficulties. Such simple items are otherwise generally unavailable in Guatemala but could be the difference between life and death for a baby. Please consider a generous donation to support the work of HIM.
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Hopkins Park Work Day
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Can you give us a hand?
Our next workday is scheduled for Saturday, September 28. This day will be spent installing some remaining drywall, continued electrical work, tiling the walls in the two small restrooms,and landscaping. The major project will be painting the interior walls. The Trinity Christian College Girls Basketball Team will be joining us to paint and landscape. If you have experience in painting, we would appreciate your help to assist the college volunteers. The Trinity team will graciously provide lunch by grilling hot dogs for everyone (Please extend your thanks for their hospitality!) We will meet at 6:45 am at the Crossroads Community Church parking lot and leave by caravan by 7:00 am
If you have any questions, please contact Nick Leep, (219-743-2692) or respond to this e-mail czernobil@att.net.
Thank your for volunteering, and your service. Matthew 25:40, "The king will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you do for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you do for me.'"
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KidsLife Ministry News
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Some news...
THIS Sunday, September 29 is our Family Worship Day!
There will be NO LOFT OR CROSSTRAINING SUNDAY SCHOOL due to our quarterly Family Worship Day! Kids and youth are encouraged to arrive 20 minutes early to their preferred service to help serve greet and usher and lead worship at the 9:30 and 11:00 services. Questions? Contact Tiffany at children@calvaryop.org or check our Family Worship webpage right here.
Trunk or Treat, Saturday October 26 from 11am-2pm
It's baaaack! This is a safe, Christian alternative to door-to-door trick-or-treating where church members decorate their trunks and pass out candy as the children dressed in their costumes walk from car to car to receive candy or trinkets. There will be plenty of fun as we have prize drawings for the best trunks, hayrides, bounce houses and more! And there's no such thing as event without food! Our Momtourage Ministry will selling food at a low cost! You won't want to miss this event at Calvary no matter what age you are!
JOIN IN ON THE FUN! Get those creative juices flowing and sign up your trunk! Families old and young, those who have antique cars to show off, church small-business owners who can pass out advertising as well as candy, can all have a part in this Fall Fun! Save the date and be on the lookout for sign-ups and other ways to get involved in this event!
Sunday School Volunteer Assistants Opportunity!
Attend the 9:30 service? Feeling led to get plugged in to serve at Calvary? Stay an extra hour on Sundays to be an assistant in The LOFT for Sunday School ages 5-5th grade during the 11:00 service. Assistants need to be ready for some fun and willing to offer extra help to our Small Group teachers. Contact Tiffany for more info at children@calvaryop.org.
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We're Searching For the Great Pumpkin!
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Maybe not, but we're looking for small/medium pumpkins!
 Everybody, it's Trunk or Treat planning time! Tiffany Johnston, our KidsLife Ministry Director, is asking if anyone knows of local farmers who would consider donating small pumpkins or sell them at a low cost for our Trunk or Treat event in October? She is also looking to borrow or rent two costumes that youth can dress up in to take pics with the kiddos. If anybody has any leads on the pumpkins or the costumes, will you please contact her at children@calvaryop.org? Thank you so much for your input!
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Life Chain 2013
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Join us in protest of abortion
Mark your calendar for Sunday, October 6 from 2-3:30 p.m. Life Chains will again form along local streets across United States and Canada. Standing publicly, Christians will witness to the value of life and pray silently for an end to abortion. Please join Calvary Church as we attend this life-saving event on LaGrange Road in front of Denny's in Orland Park. Any questions, please contact Cindy Spaulding. |
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ONE Marriage Ministry's Bonfire
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Get in the fall season and cozy up with your sweetheart!
 Calvary's ONE Marriage Ministry is planning a bonfire "date night" for our fall ministry kick-off on Saturday, October 5. The Bonfire will be at Camp Manitoqua (8122 W. Sauk Trail, Frankfort, IL). All married and pre-married couples are invited to attend! Cost is $5 per couple. We are asking couples to sign up in advance so we have an accurate count. You can sign up online on our website right here!
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40 Days of Purpose at New Hope
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 Join us Saturdays this Fall!
It's hard to believe, but it's been ten years since Pastor Rick Warren's The Purpose Driven Life came out. Do you remember when we at Calvary did the 40 Days Of Purpose campaign? We couldn't keep the book in stock fast enough! Many people dedicated their lives to Christ during this campaign. Now it is the 10th anniversary and we are going to do it all over again! Beginning Saturday, October 12 from 5-7 p.m. we will do a six-week series on this book that will include a video, message, great praise worship and dinner afterwards. People need purpose. The Purpose Driven Life is a great book that will answer the question, "What On Earth Am I Here For?" Get ready for a wonderful six weeks of self discovery! Be sure to bring friends that would like to join you. The books will be sold in our Revelations Bookstore for only $12.00 each. |
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GEMS Leaders Needed
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Come and join this GREAT ministry for girls!
We had an amazing turnout as approximately 78 girls came to GEMS last Wednesday and we're anticipating EVEN MORE to come! We're in need of adult women who would be interested in serving young girls in 2nd through 8th grade every other Wednesday night from 6:30-8:30 p.m. GEMS counselors encourage relationships with girls through activities, crafts and Bible study. Interested? Please contact Chris Stuursma at chrisms59@aol.com. Learn more about the program here.
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Coffee Break
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 Mark your calendars...
Our popular Coffee Break Bible study for women meets on Wednesdays at 9:30-11:00am. FREE childcare is available for kids 5 & under. We have an exciting year planned! For more information, please contact Jenny at coffeebreak@calvaryop.org or visit their Facebook page here.
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Local Community News
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Orphan Justice Conference 2013:
Join us on Saturday, October 19 from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Trinity Christian College (6601 W. College Dr., Palos Heights). There are over 153 million orphaned and vulnerable children in the world who desperately need someone to show them the love and compassion of Jesus Christ. Learn more about the orphan crisis and what you and your church can do to help these children in need. Brochures are available at the Welcome Desk or visit www.bethany.org/orphanjustice for more info.
Southwest Chicago Christian School News
ENTERTAINMENT BOOKS
and GOLDEN OPPORTUNITIES BOOKS are available at all three campuses of Southwest Chicago Christian Schools. Each book offers a wide variety of restaurant, entertainment and retail coupons to be used from now thru November 2014. The cost of the Entertainment Books is $30 and the cost of the Golden Opportunities Books is $25. These books make great Christmas gifts and are only available for a limited time. Stop by any campus to purchase a book.
Scrapbooking Event
Southwest Christian School PTL will be sponsoring a Scrapbooking Event on Saturday, November 2 from 9am to 8pm at the Tinley Park campus. If you are interested in attending, you can pick up a registration form at a SCCS campus, print one online from the school webpage - www.swchristian.org, or contact the school office and a form will be e-mailed to you. The registration deadline is Wednesday, October 23. We are also looking for any donations for our raffle table. If you own a business and would like to donate, please contact Kim Stoub at 708-873-1127 or mkstoub5@att.net.
Meet Author Torri Stuckey
Local Christian author Torri Stuckey will be speaking at Roseland Christian Ministries to teens and adults on Friday, October 11 at 7 p.m. Anyone is welcome to come!
Torri is a native of Robbins, IL. He attended Dwight D. Eisenhower High School. He remains one of their most decorated high school athletes, receiving All-Area, All-State and All-American honors as a running back and safety.
Torri is a graduate of Northwestern University, where he was a four-year letterman and team captain for the Wildcats, and member of the 2000 Big Ten Championship team. Currently, Torri is an independent publisher and author. His newest release, Impoverished State of Mind: Thinking Outside da Block is a self-empowering book for teenagers and young adults living in urban poverty. The success of this book has fully cemented his transition from athlete to author!
Providence Life Services News
Are you ready to join us for Torchlight 2013? Providence Life Services is excited to return to the Museum of Science and Industry for an evening of ministry celebration that will include an elegant meal, popular exhibits, and dueling pianos (yes, dueling pianos!). On Friday, November 1, 2013 the evening begins at 6:30pm, and transportation is available for those who prefer not to drive. To make reservations, email jschutt@provlife.com or call (708) 342-8108.
The Compassionate Journey Seminar at TCC
There will be The Compassionate Journey seminar at Trinity Christian College on Thursday, October 10 at 6:30 p.m. This is sponsored by Christian Service Ministries and Church Connection of Trinity. This will be led by Mark Stephenson, Joe & Kim Kuster and will provide great information for people serving others who have disabilities or those serving people with long term illness. Think: elders, deacons, caregivers, pastors, Stephen ministers, disability advocates, adult children helping parents, parents helping children, etc. Learn more here.
Southside Pregnancy Center Walk 4 Life
The Walk 4 Life is a great opportunity for the community to come together and make a difference in the lives of others by raising awareness and funds for the Life-saving work of Southside Pregnancy Center.
This year's Walk 4 Life will be 2 days - do one or both.
Saturday, October 12, 2013 (9am - 11am)
Like the Walls of Jericho, abortion seems to be an unconquerable stronghold. However, when the people of faith followed the commands of God, the Jericho Walls...fell down. Likewise, by faith we walk to bring down the stronghold of abortion in our culture. Our route: We will meet at Moody Bible Institute and walk approximately 1.5 miles encircling a Planned Parenthood ending up back at Moody. Join us for the "Jericho Walk."
Sunday, October 13, 2013 (1pm - 3pm)
Against all odds, the people of faith succeeded in the rebuilding of the wall in Nehemiah. Likewise, by faith we walk to protect future generations by rebuilding the culture of Life. Our route: We will meet at Moraine Valley Community College and walk around the college approximately 1.5 miles total. Join us for the "Nehemiah Walk." All the information you need is right here, including registration.
Chicago Christian Counseling Center is Turning 40!
You're invited to help us celebrate our 40th anniversary! Join us for a laughter-filled night with Jeff Allen, while supporting the work of Chicago Christian Counseling Center, on Saturday, October 12 from 7-9 p.m. at Trinity Christian College's Ozinga Chapel. Invite your friends, family and coworkers...they won't be disappointed! Order your $20 tickets TODAY by clicking here.
Orland Township Flu Shots
To prevent the spread of the flu virus within the community, Orland Township is offering flu shots to residents from Sept. 23 through Oct 28. Proof of residency is required. Orland Township boundaries include Orland hills, Orland Park (east of Will Cook Road and south of 135th Street), Tinley Park (west of Harlem and north of 183rd Street), and unincorporated Orland Park. Get more information here. Camp Manitoqua NewsFall Preschool Days Teacher's and Parents: Have your preschooler's class attend our Fall Preschool Days, an edu-fun day for preschool groups, for an autumn hands-on learning experience, at Camp Manitoqua and Retreat Center, Tuesday, October 8th, Wednesday, October 9, or Thursday, October 10. This outing includes a native animal hike, camp fire stories, playing our kid-sized Candy Land game, our pumpkin patch, and more - costumes encouraged! For more information visit www.manitoqua.org, or call our office Mon. - Fri. 8:30am-5pm at 815-469-2319. RSVP required for this classroom attendance. Experience the Oak Leaf Festival, an autumn event for families, youth groups, and more, at Camp Manitoqua & Retreat Center on October 12 from 10am-3pm. Activities include tree & wall climbing, creation exploration, family scavenger hunts, campfire, inflatable jumpies, wagon rides, autumn arts & crafts, and food treats. $6 admission fee (2 and under are free), additional costs may apply for treats and climbing. All details available at our website: www.manitoqua.org. Fall Retreat Discounts Camp Manitoqua & Retreat Center's fall retreat season has begun. At this time, we are offering groups a 15% discount on any retreat booked for December 2013 or January 2014. Please contact Becky at 815.469.2319, or at becky@manitoqua.org for availability. Elim's 18th Annual Dutch Festival
Join us on Saturday, September 28 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for our annual Dutch festival! Children will enjoy the petting zoo, magic show, face painting, carnival, and the musical entertainment throughout the day! Adults will love the Christmas collectibles, delft, unique Dutch groceries, baked goods, Farmers' Market, and the Wooden Shoe Carver. Everyone will enjoy treats such as olie bollen and banket as well as conventional food like pizza and hot dogs. All the proceeds will benefit Elim Christian Services whose mission is to equip children and adults with disabilities to achieve to their highest God-given potential.
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What's the What
This Week @ Calvary! |
THURSDAY (9/26):
- 7:00 a.m. Men's Barnabas Bible Study
- 9:00 a.m. OK Club Outing
- 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Food Pantry
- 6:00 p.m. Praise Band Rehearsal
FRIDAY (9/27):
- 7:00 p.m. Jr. High Youth Group
SATURDAY (9/28):
- 10:00 a.m. Golf Outing for Guatemala 2014
- 5:00 p.m. New Hope Fellowship Service
SUNDAY (9/29):
- 8:00 a.m. Worship Service
- 9:30 a.m. Worship Service
- 9:30 a.m. New Member Class
- 9:45 a.m. Faith Foundations Bible Study
- 11:00 a.m. Worship Service
- 1:00 p.m. DivorceCare
- 7:00 p.m. Sunday Night XP MONDAY (9/30): - 9:30 a.m. Girlfriends Bible Study (Faithful, Abundant, True) - 7:00 p.m. Girlfriends Bible Study (Nehemiah) - 7:00 p.m. New Hope TUESDAY (10/1): - 6:00 p.m. Praise Band Rehearsal - 7:00 p.m. HS Guy/Girl Night - 7:00 p.m. Elders & Deacons Meeting WEDNESDAY (10/2): - 9:30 a.m. Coffee Break - 6:30 p.m. Cadets - 6:30 p.m. The Hangout - 7:00 p.m. Choir Rehearsal - 7:30 p.m. NOAH THURSDAY (10/3): - 7:00 a.m. Men's Barnabas Bible Study - 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Food Pantry - 6:00 p.m. Praise Band Rehearsal FRIDAY (10/4): - 9:00 a.m. Momtourage SATURDAY (10/5): - 11:30 a.m. We Care Luncheon
- 5:00 p.m. New Hope Fellowship Service
- 7:00 p.m. ONE Marriage Ministry Bonfire at Camp Manitoqua
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There's a lot of ways to share your blessing story! You can...
and fill out a form.
- Tweet your blessing by using the hashtag
#TenThousand
Blessings. Be sure to tag us as well by using
- Fill out the connection card on Sunday.
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Help Us Stock Our Food Pantry!
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We ALWAYS have a need to keep our Food Pantry well-stocked. There is a bin in the foyer by the north doors where we accept donations. People are welcome to drop off donated food and items at any time.
You can download a full list of what we need to keep the Food Pantry well-stocked here!
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Prayer Opportunities
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INTERNET INTERCESSORS:
Would you like a group of faithful people to pray for your concerns and joys? You can send an email directly to our email address at prayer@calvaryop.org and we will pray for you!
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Faith Foundations Bible Study
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An Adult Bible study meets on Sundays at 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. in room #104 here at Calvary Church. This Bible study will definitely help you grow in your knowledge of God's Word. Learn how He wants us to be able to apply it to our everyday lives and create within us all a deeper and richer walk with Him. Please contact Joe Dampf at
jdampf22
@gmail.com for further information.
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DivorceCare
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DivorceCare is a special weekly video seminar and support group conducted by people who understand what you are experiencing. This support group will explore real world questions and answers on issues related to separation, divorce and remarriage, all presented in an easily understandable format. Most importantly, you'll learn how to deal with the pain of the past and look forward to rebuilding your life.
Our sessions are on Sundays at 1 p.m. in room 104. You can download our full schedule right here. Questions? Email Nancy Triezenberg at amera6@att.net.
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Job Opportunity
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The Destiny program at Oak Forest High School is looking for new employees and paraprofessionals, those who are interested in or has experience in working with students who have multiple disabilities / autism? For more information, please contact Geri at thekeanes222
@gmail.com
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Job Opportunity II
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Camp Manitoqua & Retreat Center is now hiring cooks, kitchen assistants and part-time housekeeping staff. Cooks must have food service experience; sanitation license preferred. Call (815) 469-2319 for an application or contact salli@manitoqua.org for kitchen positions & don@manitoqua.org for housekeeping.
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Job Opportunity III
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The Walmart Distribution Center in Elwood is looking for 150 people. See Ron Ovitt for more information at ron@calvaryop.org. Requirements:
- Must be able to lift 50 lbs. or more with helper.
- Able to work in containers and stand 8-10 hrs a day.
- Responsible for all duties as assigned.
- Great personality. We are looking for candidates that are committed and hard workers.
- Able to work in a TEAM environment with minimal supervision.
Background requirement: No conviction for 7 or 10 years. No violence conviction or retail thefts.
Shifts:
1st
6:00am-4:30pm Mon-Thursday Unloaders $10.00 an hour
8:00am-4:30pm Mon-Thursday Loaders $10.00 an hour
2nd
6:00pm-4:30am Mon-Thursday Unloaders $11.00/hr
8:00pm-4:30am Mon-Thursday Loaders $11.00 an hour
3rd
6:00am-6:30pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday Unloaders $11.00/hr
8:00am-6:30pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday Loaders $11.00/hr
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Looking For a Job?
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How do you conduct a career switch? The Self-Help Jobs Program office has abundant resources to help you determine your skills, conduct informational interviews, get training, and much more. The director looks forward to helping you - call 708-633-6580. Office hours are on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
Call Laura Vande Werken at (708) 633-6580 or email her at selfhelpjobs @sbcglobal.net.
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