Opportunity Knocks

Where Growth is the Goal, Myths are shattered, and Strengths are revealed.

WOC Workshops & Services

Smart Girl Money

Alright, buckle up, money mavens! Smart Girl Money is where it's at for all you savvy folks out there looking to boss up your financial game.

Led by the one and only Charlie Noel, the financial guru extraordinaire from AmeriCU, these quarterly virtual workshops are your ticket to mastering the money game.

We're talking understanding credit, budgeting like a pro, and unlocking the secrets to financial freedom, honey! Charlie spills all the tea on how to hustle smarter, not harder, and make your bank account do a happy dance.

Each session is a power-packed hour of insider tips, tricks, and straight-up real talk about making those dollars work for you. So if you're ready to slay your financial goals and live your best life, Smart Girl Money is where you need to be. Let's get that bread, fam!

Strategic Life Coaching

Unlock Your Potential with Strategic Life Coaching at the Women's Opportunity Center!

Discover the empowering journey of personal growth, professional development, and holistic wellness explicitly tailored for women.

Our experienced coaches provide personalized guidance, helping you navigate life's challenges, set meaningful goals, and unleash your inner strength.

From career advancement to mental wellness, our strategic approach empowers you to overcome obstacles, embrace change, and thrive in every aspect of life. Join us on a transformative path toward self-discovery, confidence, and fulfillment.

Elevate your life with Strategic Life Coaching at the Women's Opportunity Center today!

READY? SET? DREAM!

Ready to conquer the world, one dream at a time?

This fierce soul is gearing up to boss up and OWN her destiny! But hey, even warriors need a roadmap sometimes, am I right?

Say hello to "Ready? Set? Dream!" at The Women's Opportunity Center—an epic project tailor-made for those bold enough to pave their path!

Dive into this computer-based training, where YOU set the pace—flexibility, check!

Seeking that perfect niche to conquer? Need a strategic game plan to crush those doubts and make your mark?

Enter Strategic Life Coaching! It's like having your own superhero mentor by your side!

Let's drown out those nay-sayers together!

Step into your power and sculpt the business of your dreams!

Click that link and craft some epic success tales!

Love & Legality

Navigating Divorce

Join Dr.Kristy Parkin and special guest, certified paralegal Athena Frantz, as they provide you with the ins and outs of divorce.

You will be provided emotional support, practical guidance, and empowerment during this workshop series.

Ms. Franntz has over 20 years of experience in the field and is the founder of Athena S. Frantz Consulting Legal Operations and Change Management.

If you are interested in attending this workshop, register here.

WOC S.T.A.R.S.

(Supportive Tribe for Achieving Resilience & Success)

Discover unwavering support by registering for WOC S.T.A.R.S.'—our Ithaca-based conversation circle.

WOC STARS Dates: every other Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This event is in-person and will be held at the Women's Opportunity Center, 315 N. Tioga St., Ithaca, NY 14850.

Elevate your journey with WOC S.T.A.R.S.! Join our premiere conversation circle in Ithaca – where smart meets supportive.

Unwind from the burdens of everyday life and build resilient connections. Feel empowered to navigate caregiver duties, battle burnout, and embrace your superwoman strength.

Our next meeting is at our Ithaca Office on 4/11, from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. Pre-register for an enriching experience – because your story deserves to be heard in a space that truly cares.

Conversation Circle Dates:

4/11/24

4/25/24

To ensure confidentiality and protect participants, please be prepared to sign a confidentiality agreement when attending these events. What happens in S.T.A.R.S stays in S.T.A.R.S.

Pre-registration is required. If you register and are unable to attend, please notify the Women's Opportunity Center at least 2 hours prior to the beginning of the event by calling 607-272-1520 ext. 101.

To learn more about WOC STARS, the Ithaca-based Conversation Circles hosted at the Women’s Opportunity Center, check us out here!

Mental Health Monday

Welcome to another Mental Health Monday!

As a child, I was raised to believe in the religious stories about Easter, God, and the resurrection. Being born Roman Catholic (to Italians, no less!) meant these stories were - no pun intended - the gospel truth. As I got older, I realized that the stories of resurrection were not necessarily false or a one-time gig but rather small miracles that can happen every day in our hearts and minds.

As we embark on this new season, I wanted to take a

moment to share some reflections on the profound concepts of rebirth and resurrection and how they intertwine with our journey toward mental wellness.

Much like nature undergoes cycles of renewal and rejuvenation, our lives, too, experience phases of transformation. Sometimes, these transitions can feel daunting, akin to shedding old skin to make way for the new. Yet, within these moments lies an opportunity for profound growth and healing.

In the realm of mental health, the idea of rebirth can symbolize a fresh start—an opportunity to release ourselves from the burdens of the past and embrace the possibilities of the present. It's a reminder that our experiences do not define us; rather, they serve as catalysts for our evolution.

Similarly, the concept of resurrection carries with it the promise of renewal and restoration. It speaks to the resilience of the human spirit—the ability to rise from the depths of despair and rediscover a sense of purpose and vitality. Even in our darkest moments, there is a flicker of hope, a guiding light that beckons us toward healing and wholeness.

Navigating the complexities of mental health can often feel like a solitary journey, but

it's important to remember that we are never truly alone. Just as springtime brings forth new life, so too can our communities and support networks provide us with the encouragement and strength we need to persevere.

So, as we embrace the changing seasons and the symbolic significance they hold, let us also embrace the opportunity for personal growth and transformation. Let us cultivate a sense of resilience and hope, knowing that each day brings with it the possibility of rebirth and resurrection.

May we find solace in the knowledge that, no matter how challenging our circumstances may be, we have within us the power to rise again—to emerge from the ashes, renewed and revitalized.

Have a beautiful week!

Dr. K

Empowering Women in Business: Rise of Women-Owned Businesses in Shaping Tomorrow's Economy

Hey there, fellow trailblazers and future business moguls!

Let's talk about something near and dear to our hearts: small businesses.

Ah yes, the heartbeat of our communities, the engines of innovation, and the lifeblood of our economy. But here's the twist: when it comes to small business mavens, the future is female.

Picture this: a world where women-owned businesses aren't just surviving; they're thriving.

Where fierce female entrepreneurs are breaking barriers, shattering glass ceilings, and rewriting the rules of the game. Sound like a dream? Well, guess what? It's our reality.

Now, I know what you're thinking. What makes female business owners the secret sauce of economic development? Allow me to break it down for you.

First off, women-owned businesses are on the rise, baby.

According to recent studies, women are starting businesses at a rate five times faster than the national average. Talk about girl power in action!

But here's the kicker: it's not just about quantity; it's about quality too.

Women-owned businesses tend to be more innovative, more resilient, and more community-oriented than their counterparts.

They're not just in it for the profit margins; they're in it to make a difference, to leave a legacy, to create something meaningful.

And let's talk about diversity, shall we?

Women-owned businesses bring a fresh perspective to the table, injecting much-needed diversity into industries that have long been dominated by the same old boys' club. From tech to fashion to healthcare, women are shaking things up and paving the way for a more inclusive, equitable future.

But perhaps the most inspiring thing about female business owners is their unwavering courage.

In a world that often tells them to stay small, to play it safe, to know their place, women are saying, "Not today, patriarchy."

They're stepping into their power, embracing their worth, and showing the world what they're made of.

So here's to the small business mavens, the fearless female entrepreneurs who are changing the game one bold move at a time.

Here's to the future of economic development, where women-owned businesses aren't just a trend; they're the driving force behind a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow.

Keep shining bright, you magnificent mavens!

With love, courage, and a whole lot of entrepreneurial spirit,

The Ready? Set? Dream! Team.

Slaying Office Etiquette

Mastering Workplace Diplomacy: Navigating Nosy Coworkers with Grace and Finesse

Dear Mel,

I have been an employee at my company for a few years now, and I have a good relationship with the staff. However, some of my colleagues like to pry too much about our personal lives. Most of us only share what we want others to know, but what happens if certain employees don't stop digging for details? How do I say, "Respectfully, mind your business!"

Sincerely,

Not a Nosey Betty

Dear Not a Nosey Betty,

Ah, the delicate dance of workplace boundaries! It's a fine line to walk, isn't it? On one hand, camaraderie and friendly banter can make the office feel like a second home. But on the other hand, there's a time and a place for everything, and some topics are best left untouched in the workplace.

So, what's a savvy professional like yourself to do when certain colleagues just can't resist prying into your personal affairs? Fear not, dear Betty, for I've got a few tricks up my sleeve to help you navigate this sticky situation with grace and finesse.

First things first, let's talk about setting boundaries. It's like building a metaphorical fence around your personal life - not to keep people out entirely, but to ensure that only those you invite in get to frolic in your private garden of thoughts and feelings.

When those nosy colleagues start poking their noses where they don't belong, it's time to whip out your verbal fencing skills. A gentle yet firm reminder that you prefer to keep your personal life separate from work should do the trick. Try something like, "Hey there, I appreciate your curiosity, but I like to keep my personal life private. Let's stick to chatting about work stuff, okay?"

If they still don't get the memo, don't be afraid to redirect the conversation back to safer, more neutral territory. It's like playing verbal dodgeball - gracefully sidestepping those nosy inquiries and tossing the conversation ball right back into their court. For example, "You know, I'd rather not discuss that. Have you seen the latest episode of "Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency?"

And hey, if all else fails, there's no shame in seeking reinforcements. Don't hesitate to loop in your trusty manager or HR department if the nosiness persists. After all, they're there to help foster a respectful and professional work environment for everyone.

So there you have it, dear Betty - a few friendly reminders to help you maintain your personal space and keep those nosy Nellies at bay.

Remember, your personal life is like a treasure chest - it's yours to share with those you trust, not to be raided by curious coworkers wielding metaphorical crowbars.

Wishing you all the best in reclaiming your privacy and maintaining those oh-so-important workplace boundaries!

Warm regards,

Mel

HR/Operations Manager

MIRROR...MIRROR!

This section will be committed to thoughts we can marinate during the minutes/moments of our lives.

Here will live Food for thought: mantras, affirmations, quotes..., and even an occasional song reference for positive self-talk (feel free to add it to your mirror on a sticky note as a reminder to be mindful).

Food for Thought

"If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair." Shirley Chisholm

Temet Nosce: Know thyself,

Dani

Strategic Life Coach

Surviving the Workplace

Building a Workplace Family: Navigating Office Dynamics with Care

In our daily grind, the workplace often becomes a second home. We spend a significant portion of our waking hours there, forging relationships, tackling challenges, and striving for success. Amidst the deadlines and projects, it's easy to forget that the colleagues around us are more than just coworkers—they're potential allies, confidants, and even friends. Embracing this mindset can transform the office environment into a supportive community akin to a family.

Fostering a Supportive Culture

Imagine a workplace where mutual respect, empathy, and collaboration reign supreme. This is the hallmark of a workplace family. Just as in any family, there will be differences in opinion, occasional conflicts, and varying personalities. However, by prioritizing communication and understanding, these differences can become strengths rather than sources of friction.

Communication: Clear and open communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship, including those in the workplace. Encouraging honest dialogue allows for the swift resolution of conflicts and fosters a sense of trust among team members.

Empathy: Recognizing that everyone brings their own set of challenges and experiences to the table cultivates empathy. Taking the time to understand a colleague's perspective can lead to more effective collaboration and a deeper sense of camaraderie.

Recognition and Appreciation: Just as families celebrate each other's achievements, acknowledging the contributions of coworkers is vital. A simple "thank you," or public recognition can go a long way in boosting morale and fostering a positive work environment.

Supporting Each Other's Growth

In a workplace family, individual success is celebrated as a collective win. Rather than viewing colleagues as competitors, there's a genuine desire to see each other thrive and grow professionally

Mentorship: Offering guidance and mentorship to less experienced colleagues is a cornerstone of a supportive workplace culture. Sharing knowledge and expertise not only benefits the mentee but also enriches the mentor's own skill set.

Professional Development: Encouraging opportunities for learning and growth demonstrates a commitment to the personal and professional development of every team member. Whether through training programs, workshops, or educational resources, investing in employees' growth pays dividends in the long run.

Work-Life Balance: Recognizing the importance of work-life balance and supporting colleagues during challenging times is essential. Whether it's offering flexible schedules, providing emotional support during difficult periods, or simply being understanding of personal commitments, fostering a healthy balance contributes to overall well-being.

Building Lasting Connections

Beyond the confines of the office, a workplace family extends its support to all facets of life. From celebrating milestones to providing a shoulder to lean on during tough times, these connections transcend professional boundaries.

Social Activities: Organizing team outings, social events, and celebrations strengthens bonds and fosters a sense of camaraderie outside of work hours. These occasions provide opportunities for colleagues to connect on a personal level, deepening their relationships beyond the confines of the office.

Community Engagement: Engaging in philanthropic activities or volunteering as a team not only gives back to the community but also reinforces the values of compassion and solidarity within the workplace family.

Maintaining Connections: In an era where remote work is increasingly prevalent, maintaining connections can pose a challenge. Leveraging technology to facilitate virtual coffee chats, team-building exercises, and regular check-ins helps bridge the physical distance and fosters a sense of unity.

Treating colleagues like family transforms the workplace into more than just a space for professional interactions—it becomes a supportive community where individuals thrive, grow, and succeed together. By prioritizing communication, empathy, and mutual respect, fostering opportunities for growth, and nurturing lasting connections, we can cultivate a workplace culture that feels like home.

So let's strive to build not just successful careers but also fulfilling relationships within our workplace family.

After all, we're all in this together.

Samantha

Senior Program Support Specialist

Career Corner

Embark on a transformative journey to sustainable independence with the Women's Opportunity Center. Beyond career success, we nurture holistic well-being, breaking societal shackles.

In the tapestry of life, achieving sustainable independence is not just a goal; it's a transformative journey we embark upon together at the Women's Opportunity Center.

Our training program resonates with women of all ages—educated, fun, fierce, and determined to regain their confidence while supporting each other. At the heart of our mission lies "Ready? Set? Go!"—an initiative designed to hone your skills and make you job-ready and a force to be reckoned with professionally.

We understand that true empowerment goes beyond career success; it's about creating a sustainable, independent life.

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) guides our services in navigating the intricacies of the workforce. Displaced homemakers, acknowledged as dislocated workers, find a comprehensive support system through our Career Centers.

From career counseling and job applications to workshops on essential skills, we pave the way for your success. But our commitment extends beyond the professional realm.

Displaced Homemaker Programs recognize women's multifaceted challenges, offering services ranging from crisis intervention to occupational training.

We're not just fostering careers; we're nurturing holistic well-being. Why? Because achieving sustainable independence involves breaking the shackles of societal conditioning and redefining success on your terms. It's about equipping you with the technical skills needed for a job and the resilience to navigate life's challenges.

At the Women's Opportunity Center, we create a haven where women uplift each other, blending wisdom with playful confidence.

Our journey is about rewriting narratives, challenging societal norms, and fostering a culture of empowerment.

Ready to embrace sustainable independence? Register now, and let's embark on this transformative journey together. Because at the Women's Opportunity Center, we don't just empower careers; we enable lives.

Empowerment awaits—where ambition meets opportunity, and sustainable independence becomes a reality.

If you are interested in changing your career or want to explore job readiness services, register here.

Monday Motivation

Redefining Success: Embracing Collaboration Over Competition

Hey there, fellow adventurers of the heart and mind!

Let's dive deep into a topic that's been swirling around in the collective consciousness: competition. Ah, yes, the age-old dance of comparison, rivalry, and the relentless pursuit of being number one. But here's the thing: what if there's a better way? What if, instead of spending all our energy trying to outshine each other, we joined forces and celebrated each other's wins?

Think about it. How much time and effort do we waste caught up in the rat race, clawing our way to the top at the expense of others? Too much, if you ask me. But here's the radical truth: when we choose collaboration over competition, magic happens.

Imagine a world where we set aside our egos, our insecurities, and our insatiable thirst for dominance and instead embraced the power of community, connection, and collective growth.

A world where someone else's success isn't seen as a threat but as an opportunity for celebration and inspiration.

Now, I get it. It's tempting to get swept up in the allure of being the devilish diva determined to destroy and dominate. But here's the reality check: at what cost? When you look around at the bodies left in the wake of your climb to the top, do you realize how lonely, how isolated you've become?

But here's the silver lining: it's never too late to change course. It's never too late to shake off that cloak of jealousy, to lean in, and to extend a hand to your fellow travelers on this wild journey called life.

Because here's the truth: when we lift each other up when we celebrate each other's wins, we all rise together. And isn't that a far more beautiful, fulfilling, and meaningful way to navigate the world?

So let's make a pact, shall we? Let's be the kind of people who choose kindness over cruelty, collaboration over competition, and connection over isolation. Let's build bridges instead of burning them, and let's create a world where success isn't a zero-sum game but a shared victory for all.

Together, we're unstoppable. Together, we're invincible. Together, we're a force to be reckoned with.

Here's to shaking off the shackles of rivalry and embracing the boundless potential of unity and love.

Keep shining bright, you magnificent souls!

With love, courage, and a whole lot of solidarity,

Amy

Deputy Director

This Week's

Employment Resources

Onondaga County Area

Full-Time Opportunities

In-Office Call Center Sales Rep, Direct Fairways (Syracuse) $15-$24/hr

Cultivation Technician, Central Processors NY (Cicero), $17/hr

Print Operator, Immediate Mailing Service Inc, (Liverpool), $40k/yr

General Operator, Square Deal Machining (Marathon) $19/hr

Line Cook, Purity Ice Cream (Ithaca), $18/hr

34 Jobs working for the City of Syracuse!

Part-Time/Flexible Opportunities

Retail Sales Associate, Every Body Bras & Intimates (Fayetteville), $15.50-$17/hr

Merry Maids (East Syracuse), $16.50+/hr

Medical Assistant, Dermatology Farah Dermatology, (Syracuse) $17/hr

Administrative Assistant, Westfall Law (Syracuse) $16/hr

Auditor, Assured Inventory Loss Prevention Services (Syracuse), $38k/yr

Overnight Military Customer Service Agent, Command Management Services (Syracuse), $20/hr

Specialty/Degree Opportunities

Behavior Technician, Prosper ABA (Madison), $23/hr

Veterinary Technician, Moravia Veterinary Hospital, $18-$25/hr

Associate Director of Career Services (SUNY ESF, Syracuse)

Tompkins County Area

Full-Time

Tompkins Cortland Community College Psychology Faculty: Expected hiring salary

$51,233-$76,853

Tompkins Cortland Community College Accounting Faculty: Expected hiring salary, $51,233-$76,853

City of Ithaca - Department of Public Works - Streets & Facilities Seasonal Laborer $17.00 per hour

City of Ithaca - Planning, Building, and Economic Development, Housing Inspector, $51,883, with subsequent increases to $64,854

Loaves & Fishes of Tompkins County Job Opportunity, Deputy Director

The History Center in Tompkins County Community Engagement Manager

Cornell Cooperative Extension Tompkins County Finance Manager

Tompkins Cortland Community College-Executive Director of the Foundation $72,778-$109,166 Starting salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Center for Transformative Action- Operations and Administrative Manager $26.50/hr. Please submit your resume and cover letter to Taili Mugambee at tm554@cornell.edu

Advocacy Center of Tompkins County-Hotline Services Manage r

Ithaca Welcomes Refugees, Half-Time Development Director: Please submit a cover letter and resume to IWR Executive Director Casey Verderosa at caseyv@ithacawelcomesrefugees.org

Planned Parenthood of Greater New York, Advanced Practice Clinician.

Family & Children's Service of Ithaca, Program Lead - Zero to Five Project, Please email a cover letter and resume to Dr. Alecia Sundsmo, Director of Clinical Services, at asundsmo@fcsith.org

Cornell, Counselor Therapist, Cornell's Faculty & Staff Assistance Program (FSAP) provides professional counseling and support tailored to meet the unique needs of Cornell faculty, staff, retirees, and their spouses/partners. Services are free, confidential, and provided by credentialed counselors.

Ithaca Farmer's Market, Zero Waste Project Assistant, 18/hr

Ithaca Waldorf School, Business and Operations Manager, qualified applicants are to email a letter of interest, resume, and three references by Friday, April 26th, 2024, ATTENTION: IWS Business Manager Hiring Committee (office @ ithacaldorf.org).

Sciencenter, Museum Greeter

Family & Children's Service of Ithaca, Psychiatric Nurse, $35/hr,

Application Submission Process

Please email a cover letter and resume to Dr. Alecia Sundsmo, Director of Clinical Services, at asundsmo@fcsith.org.

Discover Cayuga Lake, Education Program Coordinator

Discover Cayuga Lake, Administrative Assistant

Cortland County Area

Full-time

Dispatcher - Cortland County EmergencyResponse & Communications- job post-Cortland County Emergency Response & Communications $27.26 - $39.54 an hour - Full-time

Youth Support SpecialistNYS Office of Children Family Services 250 Auburn Road, Lansing, NY 14882 $58,161 - $64,693 a year

Custodian I / Custodian, Salary range $16.8726-$21.3565/HR.

Deputy Superintendent of Public Works, salary range $ 72,000-$76,000 a yr.

Highway Engineering & Maintenance Supervisor, salary range $71,467-$95,122

Public Works Supervisor, $26.78-$30.84/HR

Senior Motor Vehicle Clerk

Superintendent of Public Works, $20.21-$25.58/HR

Superintendent of Streets & Parks, Salary Range: Varies by Jurisdiction

YWCA Cortland, Family Advocate, and a Prevention Educator. Full job descriptions can be found following this link Aid to Victims of Violence Job Opportunities – ywca of cortland (cortlandywca.org) and are posted on Indeed. Resume and cover letter can be emailed to Jsmith@cortlandywca.org

In the Spotlight

Read the latest article in the Ithaca Times, The Women’s Opportunities Center’s Mary Durham Boutique, "It was easy for Susan Weiner to admire the work of the Women’s Opportunity Center. Since 1979, the nonprofit has helped women train for jobs, build resumes, gain confidence, and pursue new careers. After the pandemic, WOC vastly expanded its programs to include a broad array of services available to any woman in any situation: domestic violence, personal conflict, homelessness, the pursuit of a new career or business, and self-exploration and growth. “Whatever situation a woman is in, she can visit the Women’s Opportunity Center to find support and advocacy to address her need,” says Susan."