By Gary Alan Ruse

The July 14, 2011 monthly meeting of the Cutler Bay Business Association (CBBA) was a departure from the usual presentation by business advisers, government leaders, utilities planners or political candidates.

The meeting topic was community services and representatives from seven different charitable public service organizations were able to introduce themselves to owners of local businesses.

Job Corps, Community Partnership for Homeless, Catholic Charities, Miami- Dade Safespace, Better Way of Miami, SOS and The Edge networked with the CBBA members before the luncheon meeting, then took turns making brief presentations about their organizations, the work they do in the community and their need for area support.

Lesly Diaz of the Homestead Job Corps Center, which is looking for speakers, mentors and tutors to inspire students to believe in themselves and perform to their highest potential, was the first to speak. “Once a month or one time, it doesn’t matter,” Diaz said. “Whatever you are able to help out, we look forward to working with you all. If you’re an entrepreneur and can speak to our business technology division, or a nurse and can speak to our nursing students, it means so much when the community comes and shows they care.”

Medical assistant student Courtney Donald, 25, who had been in college for three years and the military for four years, turned to Job Corps for training and guidance. Donald is now a certified EKG technician and soon will receive certification as a phlebotomist and administrative technician.

“I am so excited about that,” Donald said. “They give us the training and experience that we need out there in the job market.”

Link to article published in Community Newspapers – Cutler Bay News

http://www.communitynewspapers.com/featured/community-service-groups-meet-with-area-businesses/