“This is how you do it,” says Thomas, as Josh looks on. He holds a wrench-like tool in his hand, and begins to demonstrate how to lock a soundproof wall in place in a series of panels used to divide one conference room into two. As Thomas relays step-by-step instructions to Josh, it’s hard to believe the two have worked at the Sedgwick County Law Library for the Wichita Bar Association only once before. Their demonstrated success is a bright beginning to Heartspring’s new Employment Training Program (ETP).

“I’m elated with how things have gone,” John Santonil, employment training coordinator, said. “I’m proud of the kids for working so hard.”

The students spent some time setting up the Wichita Bar Association’s largest conference room by moving chairs, tables and walls for law seminars. Thomas and Josh plan to continue work for the local non-profit organization throughout the year, where eventually, they’ll be able to do their jobs with little to no instruction.

“It was actually pretty cool,” Josh said, “it’s a different thing to try.”

According to Josh, his favorite part of the experience was being able to see the end result. The students followed a diagram to set up each room with direction from Chris Nagy, continuing legal education (CLE) director for the Wichita Bar Association.

“[This program] is to our advantage. It makes my job easier,” Chris said. “Once we’re at a point where they can set up by themselves, it gives me more time to do what I need to do.”

The ETP aims to partner with local businesses to provide volunteer opportunities that mirror real-life work. Experience at these off-campus businesses will help the students adapt to scenarios they’ll likely deal with after graduation. And while it helps Heartspring’s students progress their skills, the ETP truly introduces a “win-win” scenario for businesses that want to provide these jobs.

Heartspring students are task-oriented and great at organization, with tasks like shelving or filing. Additionally, they have the work ethic to complete the assignments. However, it’s not only about the students, but also about being helpful to local businesses that need the extra hands.

“The kids really want to do these jobs. They are going to be committed and they take it seriously, no matter how big or small the effort. They give it their all, and that’s the most rewarding thing,” John said.

John aims to find opportunities that provide an environment where the students can thrive—a “good fit,” allowing students to move around and stay on their feet, which they don’t get to experience in the classroom. Ultimately, he wants to create a realistic job scenario that includes clocking in and out, to quantify the hours of effort the students put in. Eventually, they will be able recognize and value the amount of work they put in.

For the students like Josh, the Employment Training Program pushes him one step closer toward his personal goals and provides a solid foundation for life after Heartspring.

“I’ll be working at the law library for a while, and eventually John will be finding me another job, so I can build my resume,” Josh said. Experience on his resume could prove invaluable for job placement in the future. “I am doing very well,” Josh adds proudly.