Employment Services & Financial Literacy

Job Seekers

Are you looking for employment? Do you want to make a career change? We have programs available to help you confidently prepare for and obtain employment of your choice! Our Basic Food Employment and Training (BFET) program offers services to job seekers who are eligible for, or receiving Basic Food Assistance (SNAP). Our Foundational Community Support (FCS) Program offers services to job seekers who are on Medicaid. Programs can include the following assistance:

  • One-on-one support and collaboration with an employment specialist
  • Assistance in resume creation, cover letters, job search, job applications and interview preparation
  • Contact employers on behalf of job seekers
  • Education and Career planning
  • Guidance with SSI/SSDI benefit counseling and how employment might affect this income

Employer Services

Are you looking for qualified candidates to join your team? Are you looking for a way to give back and get involved in your community? We can help you with all of this and more! Engagement with our employment team helps you with the following:

  • Customized retention services and reduced employee turnover
  • Free recruiting and resources for your workforce
  • WOTC tax break resources & information
  • Reach workplace diversity goals
  • Offer industry expertise

Financial Literacy

We offer FREE financial literacy education to clients and community members to help increase money management skills. Courses include:

  • Financial Literacy and Renters Education (F.L.A.R.E.) is a series of classes designed to increase adults’ knowledge and skills in budgeting, credit, debt, landlord/tenant law and savings.

Click here for the online registration form

  • On The Money: independent classes focusing on increasing adults’ knowledge of credit, debt management, savings strategies, asset building, tax information and much more!
  • $wellness (Island County Only): A new approach to financial wellness. During the course, participants interact and complete activities that explore their culture  and relationship with money. Topics include money culture, income, savings and spending, consumer financial protection, credit and credit reports, renter/landlord laws, and renting vs. buying.

Due to COVID-19, the above classes are being taught solely online.

  • Whatcom County
    (360) 734-5121 ext. 1223

  • Island County
    (360) 679-6577 ext. 2137

Whatcom Asset Building Coalition

Opportunity Council is the lead agency for a community collaboration that supports financial self-sufficiency through education and advocacy.

 

Work First Employment Programs

Provides skill development and training as an avenue to permanent jobs for TANF (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) recipients.

Our program creates partnerships between community organizations and individuals seeking employment.

As a participating jobsite, your organization receives continuous access to no-cost trainees with diverse backgrounds to build capacity and strengthen connections to the communities you serve.

  • Whatcom County
    (360) 812-6627

ASL Services

A current list of Opportunity Council programs and services is available in American Sign Language

ASL