By Mark F. Gray, AFRO Staff Writer, mgray@afro.com
For more than a quarter century, Prince George’s County and D.C. residents looking to prepare or enhance their professional skills have been transformed by the Seat Pleasant-based the Training Source.
The organization is one of the oldest Black-owned non profits in the County and serves its role in workforce development by helping more than 1,000 people annually to improve the quality of their lives by landing gainful professional employment.
Kim Rhim, the Training Source’s executive director, was honored by the Greater Washington Community Foundation as the inaugural “Nonprofit Leader of the Year” during their 2019 Civic Leadership Awards at the MGM National Harbor. The Civic Leadership Awards recognize, honor and promote outstanding community leadership in Prince George’s County.
Training Source founder Kim Rhim was named “Nonprofit Leader of the Year” by the Greater Washington Community Foundation, during their 2019 Civic Leadership Awards at the MGM National Harbor. (Courtesy Photo)
“I am so humbled to receive the Nonprofit Leader of the Year award,” Rhim said in her remarks. “I want to thank everyone who took the time to vote for me – your support is a testament to the work of the Training Source in support of our vision of ‘economic mobility for all!’”
Rhim started the Training Source in 1993 hoping to share her skills and knowledge with those whose personal and professional development would be enhanced by the organization’s programs and services. The company provides 300 hours – or six months – of training and job placement assistance focusing on the hospitality and healthcare industries. The specialized training helps clients earn certification in a particular area such as a front desk specialist or nursing assistant.
According to their website, the Training Source provides computer skills training services; training needs assessments, job preparation and placement assistance services. These services have been delivered to state and local governments, small and large organizations and individuals.
The company’s proximity to the District offers residents of Wards 7 and 8 to make the opportunity to receive money for food through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (or SNAP) Program. In addition, their clients with limited income are eligible for clothing to wear on job interviews.
Training Source also manages a youth leadership program for high school students. Ten students are grouped with a cohort and must receive at least two recommendations from a teacher, principal, guidance counselor or coach. There is, reportedly, a 90 percent high school graduation on time rate and most of this alumni attend four-year colleges or universities after they complete the program.
Responses to posts on job placement websites have praised the company for its practices. The most commonly reported benefits of attending the Training Source are “good teachers” and “helpful career services.” Respondents also mentioned a “positive environment” and “Good career preparation” as notable benefits. One-hundred percent of reviewers told Indeed.com they would recommend The Training Source Inc. to a friend.