Provides vocational training for individuals with a variety of disabilities. Services include soft skills development, assistance with all stages of the job application process, and direct skills training on the worksite. They offer an Integrated Adult Day program, Supportive Living Services, and Transportation Services. Services vary by location.
(740) 368-5810
alphagroup.net
Federal agency for service and volunteerism. They offer a variety of work programs for adults age 18+ to receive educational scholarships and other benefits in exchange for service. Service opportunities include NCCC environment & disaster response, VISTA alleviating poverty, and much more. Initiatives in Ohio include Teach for America, Ohio State University Extension Public Health, and other programs aimed at improving education, economic prospects, and health in Ohio. Community-based organizations can apply for AmeriCorps grant opportunities.
30 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 728-2916
ServeOhio: serveohio.org
National Service: (800) 942-2677
americorps.gov
Free workforce readiness training and career coaching for Columbus residents ages 18 and older. Classes are offered monthly and cover skills like resume writing and interviewing to help boost your career. The class prepares participants to interview for full-time employment at Nationwide Children’s Hospital or employer partner with wages starting at $18/hour. The class is available at two locations:
(614) 722-2750
nationwidechildrens.org/about-us/population-health-and-wellness/healthy-neighborhoods-healthy-families/workforce-development/boost
Career Technical Schools offer training programs that can prepare students for the workforce or college degree programs. Career-Technical Education (CTE) is available at every public school in the state of Ohio free of tuition. High school students should check with their home school district to see what CTE school they are eligible to attend, and for transportation options. Students may attend CTE schools for half-day or full-day programs to continue extracurriculars or classes at their home school. Program pathways typically include healthcare careers such as nursing, information technology, automotive services, welding, cosmetology, graphic design, and others. Check with each CTE school to see what programs they offer. Many CTEs offer adult education programs such as free diploma and GED programs, career certificates, and personal enrichment classes.
List of Ohio Career Technical Centers: highered.ohio.gov/about/ohios-campuses/career-technical-education/career-technical-education-ohio-technical-centers
Columbus City Schools Career-Technical Education: Serves high school juniors and seniors in the Columbus City Schools district. Adult & Community Education offers programs for health occupations, skilled trades, computer applications, high school equivalency, and free ESL/ESOL classes.
Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools: Offers programs for high school juniors and seniors in Franklin, Fairfield, and Pickaway counties. Programs for adults include GED, ESL/ESOL, STNA, HVAC, and welding. Employability Prep is a personalized, transitional program for Franklin County students ages 16-21 with learning differences to receive hands-on training at community job sites. They offer free summer day camps for Grades 6-8 to experience hands-on learning.
4300 Amalgamated Place, Groveport, Ohio 43125
High School: (614) 836-4530
Adult Workforce: (614) 836-4541
Summer Camp: (614) 836-4530
eastlandfairfield.com
Delaware Area Career Center (DACC): Offers a variety of career-readiness opportunities for middle school and high school students on their campus and through satellite programs. They offer summer day camps for rising 7-9th grade students in Big Walnut, Buckeye Valley, Delaware City, Olentangy, Worthington, and Westerville school districts. Adult Education includes free adult diploma, GED, ESL/ESOL, and personal enrichment classes.
4565 Columbus Pike, Delaware, Ohio 43015
(740) 548-0708
delawareareacc.org
South-Western City Schools Career Tech: For junior and senior high school students in South-Western City School District. They also offer free adult workforce development courses in the evenings for HVAC, Certified Nursing Assistance (CNA), auto maintenance, and more.
4750 Big Run South Road, Grove City, Ohio 43123
(614) 801-3400
swcsdcareertech.com
Tolles Career & Technical Center: Serves Dublin, Fairbanks, Jonathan Alder, Hilliard, London, Madison-Plains, and Jefferson school districts. Adult educational opportunities include free ESL, GED, STNA EMT, personal enrichment classes, and more.
7877 U.S. Highway 42 South, Plain City, Ohio 43064
(614) 873-4666
tollestech.com
Visit your local library to get access to free books, music, movies, documentaries, games, and more. Many libraries offer free community events, group reading times for children, homework help, job and business help, and more. Librarians can often help you get connected to local resources in your community, even if they are not offered directly by the library. Contact your local library for details.
Ohio
Franklin County
Delaware County
Fairfield County
Hocking County
Licking County
Madison County
Morrow County
Perry County
Pickaway County
Union County
Provides affordable and professional home cleaning services, construction services, and commercial cleaning services. They are a fair chance, “second chance” employer offering employment for individuals who have experienced incarceration, addiction, homelessness, or human trafficking. The employment program includes career advancement training, coaching and interactive classes to reach personal and professional goals, comprehensive benefits package, and on-site counseling. Visit the website to request a quote for services or to complete a job application.
1059 Cable Avenue, Suite A, Columbus, Ohio 43222
(614) 447-0528
cleanturn.com
Offers free GED prep and ESL/ESOL classes for adults, basic skills literacy classes for adults, and vocational training programs (STNA, LPN, HVACR) at sites throughout Franklin County. Call or complete the interest form on the website to get started.
2323 Lexington Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43211
Aspire (GED & ESOL): (380) 997-7633
School of Practical Nursing: (380) 997-7617
Nurse Aide/STNA: (380) 997-3046
HVACR: (380) 997-7617
Online Courses: (380) 997-7637
ccsoh.us/Page/334
CML is an award-winning library and amazing resource in the community. With 23 locations throughout Franklin County, they provide a lot more than just books, including lots of free online resources, story times for kids, and community events. Programs include:
(614) 645-2275
All Library Locations: columbuslibrary.org/library-locations
Upcoming Events: events.columbuslibrary.org/events?
Website: columbuslibrary.org
These neighborhood resource lists are extremely helpful in finding resources near you. They provide detailed listings of free and low cost health care, vision care, dental care, prescription help, food pantries, transportation, job help, pregnancy resources and much more. They are updated annually and reviewed by the Columbus Public Health social work team. Please note that CPH does not provide direct monetary assistance, but these lists are helpful in finding community agencies that do provide this assistance.
240 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 645-6807
columbus.gov/Services/Public-Health/Find-Health-Care-Resources/Health-Resources-List
Workforce development initiative for youth ages 14-23. Participants gain paid work experience with Columbus city departments and local businesses. Youth development specialists provide linkage to support services and mentorship to ensure participants’ success. Applications typically open in February for summer placements. Visit the website to apply and find additional contact information.
columbusrecparks.com/youth-success/apps
A community‐based organization that works to empower Black and urban communities through economic, educational and social progress with programs, classes and services. Their many programs include:
788 Mount Vernon Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 257-6300
cul.org
Provides women with clothes and tools for workplace success. They offer free clothes and styling services for interviews and employment, including business suits, skirts, medical scrubs, and accessories. Clients are eligible for one interview and one employment styling session per year. Other programs include 1:1 success coaching, mentoring, professional women’s group, and access to computers, printing, and other resources at their Career Center.
1204 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 291-5420
dfscmh.org
Provides workforce training for ages 16-24 in partnership with Franklin County Department of Job and Family Services. The program includes career training, job and post-secondary education assistance, industry-recognized certification and supportive services. Services are free for those that meet TANF income-eligibility guidelines. Call for program and application details.
100 Jefferson Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 221-3398, ext. 101
eckerd.org/region/oh
Provides professional development for schools and direct student services to improve student learning. Services include technical assistance and professional training for educators, school districts, after school programs, and community organizations. Their office oversees alternative education programs, interpreter services, experiential learning opportunities, supports for students experiencing homelessness, supports for students with disabilities, workforce development programs, gifted programs, and more. Visit the website for a full list of programs and registration details.
2080 Citygate Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 445-3750
escco.org/Services.aspx
Helps immigrants and refugees from all countries establish roots and gain self-sufficiency in Central Ohio. They offer job training, resettlement support, mentoring, English language classes (ESL), case management for victims of domestic violence and more. Youth programs include after school tutoring, Pathways 2 Success paid work training program for ages 16-18, wraparound coaching and support services for ages 14-18, scholarship opportunities, and summer camp.
4300 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43123
(614) 252-5362
ethiotss.org
A free resource for anyone to master Microsoft Excel. The website has step-by-step tutorials and examples for beginners and pros alike to improve Excel skills. Just visit the website to get started.
excel-easy.com
Offers career development programs and life coaching services for teenagers and adults ages 15 and older. Programs take place at various schools and organizations across Columbus. Contact the organization for details.
845 Claycraft Road, Gahanna, Ohio 43240
(614) 804-6200
expandingvisions.net
Provides financial, medical, and social service programs in Franklin County. Programs include cash assistance (Ohio Works First, LEAP), help paying for child care, food assistance (Ohio Direction Card/SNAP/EBT, WIC), medical assistance (Medicaid, Healthy Start), and Ohio Means Jobs assistance for job seekers. Emergency Assistance (PRC) funds may be requested for a maximum of $2,000 to use towards overdue rent and utility bills, car repairs; or damages as a result of a natural disaster, housefire, or flood. Visit the website to view specific eligibility requirements for each program, and to start your application. People outside of Franklin County should visit their local county Department of Job and Family Services.
(614) 233-2000
Customer Access Center: (844) 640-6446
Medicaid Transportation: (614) 233-2381
Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline: (800) 324-8680
Workforce Development: (614) 212-1800
Ohio Direction EBT Card Assistance: (866) 386-3071
Find Your Local ODJFS Office: jfs.ohio.gov/about/local-agencies-directory
Self-Service Ohio Benefits Portal (Apply Here): ssp.benefits.ohio.gov/apspssp/ssp.portal
Main Website: jfs.franklincountyohio.gov
Offers a comprehensive work training program for young adults to help revitalize the Franklinton neighborhood of Columbus and break cycles of poverty. Young adults ages 17-24 can apply for the program. The program includes paid training and work experience in construction. Participants also receive individual mentorship, driving lessons and help with transportation, career support, and support services.
4653 Trueman Boulevard, Hillard, Ohio 43206
(614) 581-4125
franklintonrising.org
These websites offer hyperlocal online resource directories for the Hilltop and Franklinton neighborhoods. Hilltop includes resources for zip codes 43204, 43222, 43223, 432123, and 43228. Franklinton includes resources for zip codes 43223, 43215, and 43222. Resources are divided into 10 categories: emergency services, health & social services, food, housing, education, business & workforce, faith, youth & family, recreation & arts, and government services. The Community Resource Guides are managed by Franklinton Development Association.
(614) 636-3644
Franklinton Website: franklinton.org
Hilltop Website: hilltopusa.org
Café and catering kitchen providing empowering survivors of sex trafficking in Central Ohio. Anyone can go online to view their Café Menu, place a Catering order, or purchase a gift card. Their programs include a 2 -year comprehensive workforce development program, CATCH Court Support for victims involved in the justice system, and affordable housing. The Butterfly Program is a peer-to-peer program for women healing from trauma and substance use disorder to work towards a GED or high school diploma, participate in counseling, receive assistance with paperwork, get record expungement, and other supports. They also offer community events, speaking engagements, and volunteer opportunities.
123 East Spring Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 992-3252
freedomalacart.org
Offers a variety of free work readiness programs. Adult programs include GED preparation, ESL/ESOL, Career Bridges customer service training, and technology classes. Youth programs include after school homework help, mentoring, and career exploration for grades 9-12. Blue Bow Tie offers professional catering services while providing job opportunities to individuals with barriers to employment. Camp Mary Orton offers summer camp experiences for youth ages 6-14, team building retreats, and venue spaces with proceeds supporting Godman Guild programs.
P.O. Box 8100 Columbus, Ohio 43201
(614) 294-5476
godmanguild.org
Goodwill Stores sell thrift clothing, furniture, art, and more to support their job training programs. Services include 1:1 career coaching, job training courses, and job placement. They offer training for basic work readiness, Roads2Work commercial driver training, STNA and medical coding; digital skills technology classes, and CompTIA IT program. They also offer AMP for young adults 18-24 to access additional wraparound services. I/DD services for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities include access to Goodwill Columbus Art Studio, work readiness, adult day and residential services, and transportation.
671 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43206
Main Office: (614) 294-5181
Career Coaching: (614) 966-9283
goodwillcolumbus.org
Provides income-based case management services, emergency assistance services, financial services, computer literacy and workforce development programs. Most of the programs are for Franklin County residents living at or below 125% of the Federal Poverty Level. Visit the website or call for more information.
Southside: 711 Southwood Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43207
Westside: 4129 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43228
impactca.org
AMP website: jfs.franklincountyohio.gov/amp
Helps individuals and families achieve economic self-sufficiency. Services include job search assistance, mental health counseling, and case management to help clients find jobs, stable housing, and wellness resources. Business services include recruitment and referral of job candidates, networking opportunities, and cultural competency counseling. They offer 1:1 digital coaching, Digital Skills Hub courses, and digital skills workshops to help clients navigate technology. The Financial Empowerment Center offers free one-on-one financial counseling in-person or online for adults in Central Ohio. Confidential mental health counseling is available with licensed therapists; they accept private insurance, self-pay, Medicare, and Medicaid. They also offer specialized services for refugees, New Americans, Holocaust survivors, and older adults/senior citizens. JFS is open to the Jewish and non-Jewish communities.
1070 College Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43209
(614) 231-1890
jfscolumbus.org
Works with adults and specializes in assisting women making career transitions and reduce barriers to satisfying, long-term employment. They offer a sliding fee scale and help people regardless of their ability to pay. Transportation and childcare assistance are also available for qualifying programs and individuals. Visit the website for a specific list programs and services offered.
2760 Airport Drive Suite 125, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 849-0028
newdirectionscc.org
Free employment services for all ages, working and unemployed. The website has articles with tips for job searching, free online training modules for math and reading, GED prep, and computer skills; and resources for veterans, senior citizens, and previously incarcerated people. Job Centers offer help finding a job, free access to computer lab, technology training, help for employers, and more. Services and availability vary by location, use the website to find a Job Center near you.
Columbus-Franklin County Job Center: 1111 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205
(614) 559-5052
Ohio Means Jobs Columbus-Franklin County: omjcfc.org
Ohio Means Jobs State Website: ohiomeansjobs.ohio.gov
A community center dedicated to serving neighbors on the South Side of Columbus. They offer a variety of programs through partnerships with area organizations and help neighbors get connected to important services. Services include GED classes, adult education and workforce development, early education/child care, youth and family services, in collaboration with community partners (Boys & Girls Club, House of Hope, Southeast Healthcare Services, Godman Guild, St. Stephen’s Community Center, Alvis, Community Development for All People and more).
280 Reeb Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43207
(614) 468-9280
reebavenuecenter.org
Program: Provides comprehensive behavioral healthcare, including mental health counseling for individuals and families, primary care, dental care, pharmacy services, and vocational services. Substance use treatment services include immediate access to detox, medication assisted treatment, counseling, and case management. Homeless services include Men’s homeless shelter, transitional housing for adults with mental health disorders, and wraparound services. They serve multiple counties in Ohio, programs vary by location.
Eligibility: Ages 3+
Cost: Government insurance (Medicaid, Molina, Caresource), Private insurance, Self-pay (sliding scale fees based on income).
Referral: Individuals may refer themselves or be referred by a physician.
General Questions: (614) 225-0990
southeasthc.org
A paid summer work experience for 15-18 year-olds to gain hands-on experience in urban farming. Participants receive a stipend for working in the Franklin Park Conservatory Community Garden for 8 weeks, and sell the produce they grow at the Conservatory’s Farmer’s Market. Students learn about gardening, cooking, customer service, and more. Participants must have a Columbus address or attend at Columbus City School to qualify, and complete an application and interview process.
Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens: 1777 East Broad Street Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 715-8000
fpconservatory.org/education-programs/outreach-programs/teen-corps
Federally-funded career development program for Social Security disability beneficiaries ages 18 through 64 who want to work. Provides free employment services to help participants decide if working is right for them, prepare for work, find a job, or maintain success while working. Participants receive services such as career counseling, vocational rehabilitation, and job placement and training from authorized Ticket to Work service providers, such as Employment Networks (EN) or your State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency.
(866) 968-7842 or (866) 833-2967 TTY
choosework.ssa.gov
Offers skilled trades programs to empower youth in Columbus, Ohio. After school programs include a 5-week financial literacy course, and Working Class for 11th and 12th graders to learn concrete labor and earn weekly stipends. Project Genesis is a paid summer employment program for youth ages 14-18. Youth are matched with a worksite based on their area of interest and location, and gain hands-on experience working alongside industry professionals. The Gen II Gen is a 12-week program for ages 18-24 to receive job training, worksite experience, and a certification of completion to use for job placement. All programs are free for participants, and include a shirt, water bottle, and all tools needed for the worksite. Visit the website to register.
(614) 623-0561
tradesoffaith.org
Faith-based nonprofit providing a food pantry, clothing boutique, cooking classes, and Christmas food and gift help. They can also connect you to employment assistance with their community partners. Healthcare services include eye exams and no-cost glasses to those who qualify, breast and cervical cancer screens to women who are uninsured or underinsured, and mental health counseling with board-licensed counselors at the Hope Counseling Center. Appointments are required for most services, including food pantry and boutique.
3964 East Main Street, Whitehall, Ohio 43213
(614) 252-2500
victorycoh.org
Faith-based charity providing food to income-eligible residents of the Westerville City School district. The HOPE program provides one-on-one supportive coaching for Senior adults (age 60+), people with disabilities, and others going through financial and life challenges. They have a free summer lunch program for children ages 1-18, Share Bac A Pac to feed children on weekends and school breaks, and the Way2Work free job training course. The Choice Market allows families to shop the food pantry online or by phone to customize their order. Find program and eligibility details online (if experiencing web issues, try using the mobile version or opening in Chrome).
150 Heatherdown Drive, Westerville, Ohio 43081
Administration: (614) 889-0196
Help Center/Food Assistance Scheduling: (614) 568-8700
warmwesterville.org