Native American Employment Services

Program overview

Our Native community holds rich cultural assets handed down by ancestors and strives toward sustainable economic sovereignty and security. We are involved in a dynamic community development process that honors the traditions of Native peoples and creates opportunities for our future generations. Our work is guided by principles of self-determination, social and economic justice, and accessing, sharing, and controlling resources. Our community members lead and direct our vision.

Goals, services, and support

The goal of the Native Community Employment Services (NCES) program is to increase the economic success of the Native community in Portland. To do this, our program provides opportunities for participants to gain the skills and experience needed to be successful in the workforce.

Career advancement groups

Participants enrolled in the NCES program complete a personal employment goal plan and attend 8 weeks of employment workshops covering the following: job searching, applications and résumé writing, interviewing, positive professional attitudes and interpersonal communication, time management, and workplace ethics. Work experience and internship opportunities are also available to successful participants.

When participants successfully complete the 8 weeks of workshops, they will have set and accomplished goals, built relationships with staff, shown follow-through, and gained specific skills to succeed in the workforce. This is done in ways that incorporate Native learning styles and traditional Native culture to strengthen participants' cultural identity and community pride.

Contact