Operated by KRA Corporation for the Prince George’s County Department of Social Services, the Non-Custodial Parent Employment Program (NPEP)—a component of the PGWorks Employment and Training Program—provides job training and/or placement services for parents delinquent with child-support obligations due to lack of steady employment.
In 2011, Timothy Jones III, 43, started a catering business, but could not generate enough income to make regular child-support payments. In January 2014, he enrolled in NPEP for assistance. Rhonda Feimster, KRA Career Agent, reported, ” During February, Timothy participated in several interviews, which included cooking demonstrations. He impressed one Executive Chef so much, he wanted to hire him on-the-spot, despite a past criminal infraction. However, Human Resources did not agree, and did not offer Timothy the job.”
To increase his employability, Feimster encouraged Jones to enroll in Gloucester County College’s “ServSafe Instructor” and “Registered ServSafe Examination Proctor” courses. In March, Jones obtained certifications in both areas, inspiring him to become even more diligent in his job-search efforts. In April, Jones interviewed with a Marriott Hotel, was offered an Associate Chef position, and subsequently was able to get back on track with his financial support for his family.
