Posted: May 3, 2017

The Dayton Train to Sew workforce development program trains students on the skills required to obtain employment as an industrial sewist in a manufacturing environment. The program is a partnership between area churches, local organizations and local manufacturers, led by the Dayton Sewing Collaborative (DSC), Fairhaven Church, Hillside Chapel and the Immigration Resource Network.

“It doesn’t matter what corner of the Dayton region, country or world people come from, sewing is a common thread,” said Brenda Rex of the DSC. “We have found that the immigrants and refugees we are working with have a hunger to learn; they want jobs and to live the American Dream.”

The curriculum was developed in conjunction with local employers to insure students are taught the skills required for employment in the local community. In addition to sewing training, the Dayton Train to Sew program also provides English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) tutoring in conjunction with the Miami Valley Career Technology Center and the Adult Basic Literacy Education (ABLE) program.

“We’re really excited to be part of this effort to help immigrants and refugees find hope as they work to build a new life,” said Fairhaven Church Outreach Pastor Kirk Lithander.

The first session of the program recently celebrated the graduation of its first group of students. Sixteen students participated in the eight-week training program. Nine students mastered the proficiencies necessary to graduate.

The Dayton Train to Sew program also offers sessions on Saturday mornings for area residents looking to gain employment in the Dayton area. Learn more at www.DaytonSewing.com