January 18, 2007

For more information contact: Kimberly Kreider, (901)333-4023 / Pat O’Brien, (901) 333-4021

HOW TO RESTART A LIFE: SPRING PREP WORKSHOPS SET AT SOUTHWEST FOR LIFESTYLE RE-ENTRY EDUCATION PROGRAM

Four orientations and workshops are being scheduled now for Southwest’s PREP program, a free eight-week enrollment program designed to help single parents, displaced homemakers and dislocated workers reconnect to a successful life.

When initial financial resources are low or missing, and motivation is down, the PREP program offers workshops on college life, positive imaging, career options and stress management to help get life moving again, with assertive techniques, employability skills training, money management, time management goal-setting and related topics.

To schedule orientation (January 29 to February 1), call (901) 333-5342. Orientations will be held at both Union Avenue and Macon Cove campuses. The eight-week workshops will be scheduled between February 12 and April 10 at both campuses.

“The big story is the choices that are more and more available, and the opportunities to take advantage of them,” according to Miki Craft, director of the PREP program “Ongoing personal support gives students a successful return, or new beginning for college or other higher education opportunity.”

Eligibility requirements:

• Must be single parent (with parental custody) or displaced homemaker or dislocated worker (man or woman);

• Must have high school diploma or GED;

• Must not have earned a college degree;

• Must not have been in school within the past two years;

• Must have motivation to succeed

The PREP Program is free. It includes:

• An eight-week enrollment preparation/career counseling class;

• Assistance in applying for federal aid and scholarships

• An on-going counseling relationship between participants and our PREP counselors, and the base for a support group that will make he return to work and school easier

• Child care assistance is provided as space allows.