Yes. The Employment & Training Program is offered at no cost to eligible participants through partnerships with state SNAP E&T agencies and community partners.

How do I enroll in the program?

Interested individuals can enroll by completing an interest form online, contacting our office directly, or visiting one of our locations in Nashville, TN or Charlotte, NC.

How long is the program?

Our programs are intentionally structured to be self-paced, with a recommended completion timeline of approximately 60 days. We recognize, however, that individual circumstances may vary; therefore, extended timeframes can be accommodated upon request to ensure participants have every opportunity to succeed.

Are the classes offered in-person or online?

The program is offered in a hybrid format, with both in-person and virtual options available, depending on the location. This flexible model allows participants to learn at their own pace and accommodate their personal schedules.

Will I receive a certificate upon completion?

Yes. Participants who successfully complete designated training tracks or vocational programs will receive certificates of completion or industry-recognized credentials such as ServSafe, OSHA, or Customer Service certifications.

What services are included in the program?

Participants receive a comprehensive range of services, including job readiness training, vocational skills development, résumé writing, interview preparation, case management, job placement support, and access to wraparound services.

Do you offer job placement assistance?

Yes. The HELP Center partners with local employers and workforce agencies to connect participants with job opportunities. We also assist with job applications, interview scheduling, and follow-up support to help secure long-term employment.

Who is eligible to enroll in the Employment & Training Program?

The program is open to individuals receiving SNAP benefits and those seeking to build job readiness skills, vocational training, or employment support. Eligibility may vary by location and partnership requirements.

Can I receive supportive services while enrolled?

Supportive services are only available to participants enrolled in our in-person Employment and Training Program through MTAJ-NC at our Charlotte office. Eligible participants may receive assistance such as transportation support, childcare referrals and additional community resources as needed.

What if I have barriers to employment, such as a criminal record or limited work experience?

The program is designed to support individuals facing barriers to employment. Our case managers work closely with participants to address challenges and develop customized plans for success.

More Than a Job NC | The HELP Center

More Than a Job - NC

Empowering Individuals to Achieve Career Success

At The HELP Center in North Carolina, we are dedicated to empowering individuals with the skills and support needed to achieve economic independence. Our hybrid Employment and Training Program, offering both in-person and virtual options, is designed to help participants build the workplace skills, confidence, and experience necessary to succeed in today’s job market.

"Funding provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture."

USDA SNAP Non-Disrimination Statement

LEARN MORE

Our Impact

Training to Employed:
A Success Story

Through The HELP Center’s online training, personalized case management, and supportive services, I gained the skills and confidence to secure meaningful employment. If I can do it, so can you. Enroll today and take the first step toward your future.

Understanding SNAP Work Requirements

Stay Informed. Stay Compliant. Stay Moving Forward.

Federal SNAP work requirements are changing, and more individuals may now be required to participate in approved work or training activities to maintain SNAP benefits eligibility. The HELP Center Employment & Training Program is here to help eligible participants understand these requirements while gaining valuable career skills, workforce training, and employment support.

What Are the New Federal Work Requirements?

Federal SNAP rules include work requirements for certain adults who receive food assistance. The newest federal changes expand the group of adults who may be required to work, volunteer, or participate in approved employment and training activities to continue receiving SNAP beyond the time limit.

SNAP has two main work-related rules. The first is the general work requirement, which may apply to adults ages 16 through 59 who are able to work. This can include registering for work, accepting suitable employment, not voluntarily quitting a job, and participating in SNAP Employment and Training if assigned by the state SNAP agency.

The second rule is the ABAWD work requirement, which applies to certain Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents. Under updated federal rules, ABAWD requirements may now apply to adults ages 18 through 64 who are able to work and do not live with a child under age 14. To keep SNAP benefits beyond three months in a three-year period, these individuals generally must work, volunteer, or participate in approved job training for at least 80 hours per month, which is equal to about 20 hours per week.

Approved activities may include employment, job training, supervised job search, work readiness, vocational education, community service, or participation in a SNAP Employment and Training program. The HELP Center’s Employment and Training Program is designed to support eligible participants by providing structured activities that may help them meet these requirements while gaining job skills, credentials, and employment support.

Some individuals may be exempt from these requirements, depending on their situation. Common exemptions may include individuals who are pregnant, caring for a child under age 14, caring for someone who is sick or disabled, unable to work due to a medical condition, receiving disability benefits, enrolled in school at least half-time, participating in a drug or alcohol treatment program, or receiving unemployment benefits.

Because SNAP rules are administered by each state, participants should always follow the official notice from their local SNAP agency. The HELP Center can help eligible participants in North Carolina and Iowa connect with training and support designed to help them stay compliant and move toward long-term employment.

How The HELP Center Can Help

Navigating SNAP work requirements can feel overwhelming, especially when participants are trying to balance employment, family responsibilities, transportation barriers, or career transitions. The HELP Center Employment & Training Program is designed to provide structured support that helps eligible participants understand participation expectations while working toward long-term employment goals.

Our team works closely with participants to help them engage in qualifying SNAP Employment & Training activities that may satisfy federal participation requirements. Through weekly case management and ongoing support, participants receive guidance throughout the enrollment and participation process to help them remain active and on track.

The HELP Center may assist participants with:

Understanding SNAP E&T participation expectations
Enrollment into qualifying Employment & Training activities
Weekly case management and participation monitoring
Development of individualized employment plans
Tracking participation hours and engagement
Resume development and interview preparation
Employment search assistance and supervised job search activities
Connection to virtual and hybrid workforce training opportunities
Support with documenting participation and progress
Guidance on reporting participation to appropriate agencies when required
Assistance identifying barriers to employment and supportive service needs

Our program is designed to help participants not only maintain compliance with SNAP-related requirements, but also gain the skills, confidence, and support needed to pursue stable employment and long-term self-sufficiency.

Participants do not have to navigate the process alone. The HELP Center’s Employment & Training team provides ongoing encouragement, accountability, and workforce support to help individuals move forward successfully.

Why This Matters

The new federal SNAP work requirements are intended to help individuals move toward long-term employment, financial stability, and self-sufficiency while continuing to receive nutritional assistance during times of need. For many households, SNAP benefits play an important role in maintaining food security, and understanding participation requirements is essential to avoiding interruptions in benefits.

For individuals who are required to participate, failing to meet work or training requirements may result in time-limited or discontinued SNAP benefits. That is why early engagement, consistent participation, and proper documentation are important.

The HELP Center believes these requirements should not only be viewed as compliance obligations, but also as opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through structured support, workforce development services, and ongoing case management, participants can build employability skills, strengthen confidence, and connect with pathways toward long-term career success.

Our goal is to help participants:

Maintain SNAP eligibility through qualifying participation
Understand their responsibilities and reporting expectations
Overcome barriers that may impact employment or participation
Build workforce readiness and professional skills
Increase long-term employment opportunities
Move toward greater economic stability and independence

The HELP Center is committed to providing supportive, participant-centered services that help individuals meet requirements while building a stronger future for themselves and their families.

Our Programs and Courses

Here's How We Do It

The HELP Center Employment & Training Program combines work readiness training, vocational education, supervised job search, and ongoing case management support to help participants meet SNAP E&T participation requirements while building pathways toward long-term employment and self-sufficiency. Through structured activities, workforce coaching, and career-focused support services, participants receive the guidance and tools needed to strengthen employability, maintain compliance, and move toward meaningful career opportunities.

Pathways to Employability

Preparing Individuals for Success
in the Workplace

Work Readiness Training at The HELP Center provides meaningful assistance to low income individuals, helping to improve their ability to get a job. Activities include skill assessment and educational remediation services that prepare individuals for the workforce.

ENROLL TODAY

Module Overview

Part of the Pathways to Employability Program under SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T), this module is an interactive, seven-day self-paced learning experience designed to build a strong personal and professional foundation for adults seeking career direction and growth.

What You’ll Gain:

Career Readiness & Professional Development: Master real-world workforce skills for today’s job market.
Personal Growth: Strengthen communication, accountability, and a professional mindset.
One-on-One Support: Individualized case management to overcome barriers and identify goals.
Reflective Learning: Journaling activities to celebrate growth and build confidence.

Module Overview

Part of the Pathways to Employability Program under SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T), this module is an interactive, seven-day self-paced learning experience designed to help participants better understand their strengths, personality, goals, values, and areas for growth as they prepare for long-term employment success.

What You’ll Gain:

Personal Development & Confidence Building: Identify your strengths, talents, and growth opportunities.
Professional Mindset: Learn how self-awareness impacts workplace success and relationships.
One-on-One Support: Receive individualized case management support focused on personal and career goals.
Reflective Learning: Participate in guided journaling activities that encourage self-discovery and confidence-building.

Module Overview

Part of the Pathways to Employability Program under SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T), this module is an interactive, seven-day self-paced learning experience designed to help participants create professional resumes that effectively highlight their skills, experience, and career goals.

What You’ll Gain:

Professional Resume Development: Learn how to build a clear, polished, and employer-ready resume.
Career Branding: Discover how to market your strengths and experience with confidence.
One-on-One Support: Work with Case Management to identify transferable skills and employment goals.
Reflective Learning: Complete guided activities focused on career achievements, skills, and future opportunities.

Module Overview

Part of the Pathways to Employability Program under SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T), this module is an interactive, seven-day self-paced learning experience designed to help participants effectively search for employment opportunities and understand how to access the hidden job market.

What You’ll Gain:

Job Search Strategies: Learn effective techniques for finding employment opportunities online and in your community.
Hidden Job Market Knowledge: Discover how networking and professional connections can lead to employment opportunities not publicly advertised.
One-on-One Support: Receive individualized guidance to strengthen your job search approach and career planning.
Reflective Learning: Participate in activities that build confidence, motivation, and employment readiness.

Module Overview

Part of the Pathways to Employability Program under SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T), this module is an interactive, seven-day self-paced learning experience designed to strengthen verbal, nonverbal, and professional communication skills necessary for workplace success.

What You’ll Gain:

Professional Communication: Develop workplace communication skills that support teamwork and professionalism.
Conflict Resolution & Active Listening: Learn strategies to communicate effectively and respectfully in professional settings.
One-on-One Support: Receive guidance and feedback to strengthen interpersonal and workplace interactions.
Reflective Learning: Complete exercises designed to improve self-expression, confidence, and professionalism.

Module Overview

Part of the Pathways to Employability Program under SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T), this module is an interactive, seven-day self-paced learning experience designed to help participants prepare for successful job interviews through confidence-building, preparation strategies, and practical techniques.

What You’ll Gain:

Interview Preparation: Learn how to confidently answer common interview questions and present yourself professionally.
Professional Presentation: Understand workplace expectations, appearance, body language, and communication techniques.
One-on-One Support: Receive individualized coaching and interview preparation guidance from Case Management.
Reflective Learning: Participate in exercises that build confidence and prepare you for real-world interview experiences.

Module Overview

Part of the Pathways to Employability Program under SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T), this module is an interactive, seven-day self-paced learning experience designed to help participants strengthen organizational skills, manage responsibilities effectively, and improve productivity in personal and professional settings.

What You’ll Gain:

Productivity & Organization: Learn techniques to prioritize tasks, manage schedules, and meet deadlines.
Workplace Readiness: Develop habits that support reliability, consistency, and professional success.
One-on-One Support: Receive individualized guidance to address barriers affecting productivity and time management.
Reflective Learning: Complete activities that encourage accountability, goal tracking, and personal growth.

Module Overview

Part of the Pathways to Employability Program under SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T), this module is an interactive, seven-day self-paced learning experience designed to help participants successfully transition into employment and maintain long-term workplace success.

What You’ll Gain:

Employment Retention Skills: Learn strategies for maintaining employment, workplace professionalism, and career advancement.
Workplace Success: Understand employer expectations, attendance, teamwork, communication, and adaptability.
One-on-One Support: Receive continued Case Management guidance focused on overcoming barriers and sustaining employment success.
Reflective Learning: Participate in activities that encourage confidence, accountability, and long-term career growth.

The HELP Institute

Preparing Individuals for Success
in the Workplace

Providing individuals with the hands-on training and essential knowledge needed to succeed in today’s competitive workforce. Through a blend of industry-focused curriculum, practical skill-building, and individualized guidance, participants gain the confidence and capabilities to advance their careers and achieve long-term employment success.

ENROLL TODAY

Course Overview

Part of The HELP Institute Program under The HELP Center’s SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) initiative, the SMART Maintenance Technician Course, developed in collaboration with START and the AHLEI Credentialed Maintenance Technician Training Program, is designed to prepare participants for entry-level maintenance careers within the hospitality industry.

This comprehensive self-paced training program equips participants with the foundational technical knowledge, workplace readiness skills, and industry-focused training necessary to thrive as maintenance technicians in hotels, resorts, and other hospitality environments.

Participants will have access to the course for up to six months from the date of enrollment, allowing flexibility to complete training at their own pace while balancing personal responsibilities and career goals.

What You’ll Gain:

Industry-Focused Technical Training: Learn essential maintenance technician skills aligned with hospitality industry standards and workplace expectations.
Flexible Self-Paced Learning: Access virtual training modules anytime during the six-month enrollment period.
Comprehensive Learning Materials: Utilize an interactive workbook designed to reinforce technical knowledge and practical skill development.
Career Readiness & Professional Development: Strengthen communication, professionalism, problem-solving, and employment retention skills.
Integrated Case Management Support: Receive individualized support, encouragement, and barrier reduction services throughout your training experience.
Employment Pathway Opportunities: Build the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in hotel and hospitality maintenance operations.

Course Overview

Part of The HELP Institute Program under The HELP Center’s SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) initiative, the SMART Certified Kitchen Cook Course, developed in collaboration with START and the AHLEI Certification Training Program, is designed to prepare participants for professional cooking careers within the hospitality and food service industry.

This comprehensive self-paced training program provides participants with the essential culinary knowledge, workplace readiness skills, and industry-focused training necessary to succeed in commercial kitchens, restaurants, hotels, and hospitality environments.

Participants will have access to the course for up to six months from the date of enrollment, allowing flexibility to complete training at their own pace while balancing personal responsibilities and career goals.

What You’ll Gain:

Industry-Focused Culinary Training: Learn foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, food preparation, and hospitality industry standards.
Flexible Self-Paced Learning: Access virtual training modules anytime during the six-month enrollment period.
Comprehensive Learning Materials: Utilize an interactive workbook designed to strengthen culinary knowledge and practical skill development.
Career Readiness & Professional Development: Build communication, teamwork, time management, and workplace professionalism skills essential for food service careers.
Integrated Case Management Support: Receive individualized support, encouragement, and barrier reduction services throughout your training experience.
Employment Pathway Opportunities: Develop the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in restaurants, hotels, catering, and hospitality food service operations.

Course Overview

Part of The HELP Institute Program under The HELP Center’s SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) initiative, the SMART Certified Guestroom Attendant Course, developed in collaboration with START and the AHLEI Certification Training Program, is designed to prepare participants for careers in the hospitality industry as professional guestroom attendants.

This comprehensive self-paced training program equips participants with the essential housekeeping knowledge, customer service skills, workplace professionalism, and hospitality industry standards necessary to succeed in hotels, resorts, and lodging environments.

Participants will have access to the course for up to six months from the date of enrollment, allowing flexibility to complete training at their own pace while balancing personal responsibilities and career goals.

What You’ll Gain:

Industry-Focused Hospitality Training: Learn professional housekeeping procedures, guest service standards, cleaning techniques, safety practices, and hospitality expectations.
Flexible Self-Paced Learning: Access virtual training modules anytime during the six-month enrollment period.
Comprehensive Learning Materials: Utilize an interactive workbook designed to strengthen practical knowledge and workplace readiness skills.
Career Readiness & Professional Development: Build communication, time management, attention to detail, and workplace professionalism skills essential for hospitality careers.
Integrated Case Management Support: Receive individualized support, encouragement, and barrier reduction services throughout your training experience.
Employment Pathway Opportunities: Develop the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in hotels, resorts, lodging facilities, and hospitality housekeeping operations.

Course Overview

Part of The HELP Institute Program under The HELP Center’s SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) initiative, the ServSafe Food Handler Course, developed in collaboration with ServSafe, is a comprehensive self-paced training program designed to educate participants on the principles of safe food handling practices within the food service and hospitality industry.

This industry-recognized course prepares participants for careers involving food preparation, handling, and service by providing essential food safety knowledge, sanitation practices, workplace professionalism, and customer service skills necessary to succeed in restaurants, hotels, cafeterias, catering operations, and other food service environments.

The program combines interactive online training with hospitality knowledge and soft skills development to ensure participants are prepared to maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene, and professional conduct in the workplace.

What You’ll Gain:

Industry-Recognized Food Safety Training: Learn proper food handling, sanitation, personal hygiene, contamination prevention, and workplace safety procedures.
Flexible Self-Paced Learning: Complete online training at your own pace while balancing personal responsibilities and career goals.
Hospitality & Soft Skills Development: Strengthen communication, teamwork, professionalism, and customer service skills essential for food service careers.
Career Readiness & Workplace Preparation: Gain the foundational knowledge needed to work confidently in restaurants, hotels, cafeterias, and hospitality environments.
Integrated Case Management Support: Receive individualized guidance, encouragement, and barrier reduction support throughout your training experience.
Employment Pathway Opportunities: Build the skills and confidence needed to pursue entry-level employment opportunities within the food service and hospitality industry.

Course Overview

Part of The HELP Institute Program under The HELP Center’s SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) initiative, the Customer Service & Sales Course, developed in collaboration with the NRF Foundation RiseUp Program, is designed to prepare participants for careers in customer service and sales within the retail and hospitality industries.

This comprehensive self-paced online training program equips participants with the essential workplace knowledge, communication skills, and customer engagement strategies necessary to succeed in fast-paced retail and service environments. The curriculum includes industry-recognized training and certification preparation developed in collaboration with more than 20 leading retailers to align with current workforce expectations and employer needs.

Participants will have access to the course for up to six months from the date of enrollment, allowing flexibility to complete training at their own pace while balancing personal responsibilities and career goals.

What You’ll Gain:

Industry-Recognized Customer Service Training: Learn customer engagement, sales techniques, problem-solving, professionalism, and workplace communication skills.
Retail & Sales Readiness: Develop the knowledge and confidence needed to provide exceptional customer experiences and support sales success.
Flexible Self-Paced Learning: Access virtual training modules anytime during the six-month enrollment period.
Industry-Recognized Curriculum & Exam Preparation: Participate in training developed in collaboration with major retail employers and prepare for credentialing opportunities.
Integrated Case Management Support: Receive individualized guidance, encouragement, and barrier reduction support throughout your training experience.
Employment Pathway Opportunities: Build the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in retail, customer service, hospitality, and sales-focused environments.

Course Overview

Part of The HELP Institute Program under The HELP Center’s SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) initiative, the Business of Retail Course, developed in collaboration with the NRF Foundation RiseUp Program, is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the foundational principles, operations, and workplace practices essential for success in the retail industry.

This comprehensive self-paced online training program equips participants with the essential knowledge, professional skills, and industry-focused training needed to thrive in retail environments, including customer engagement, sales operations, merchandising, teamwork, workplace professionalism, and retail business fundamentals.

The curriculum includes industry-recognized training and certification preparation developed in collaboration with more than 20 leading retailers to align with current workforce expectations and employer needs.

Participants will have access to the course for up to six months from the date of enrollment, allowing flexibility to complete training at their own pace while balancing personal responsibilities and career goals.

What You’ll Gain:

Industry-Focused Retail Training: Learn foundational retail operations, customer service principles, merchandising, sales support, and workplace expectations.
Business & Workplace Readiness: Develop communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and professionalism skills essential for retail success.
Flexible Self-Paced Learning: Access virtual training modules anytime during the six-month enrollment period.
Industry-Recognized Curriculum & Exam Preparation: Participate in training developed alongside major retail employers and prepare for credentialing opportunities.
Integrated Case Management Support: Receive individualized guidance, encouragement, and barrier reduction support throughout your training experience.
Employment Pathway Opportunities: Build the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in retail, customer service, sales, and hospitality-related industries.

Course Overview

Part of The HELP Institute Program under The HELP Center’s SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) initiative, the Supply Chain, Inventory & Logistics Course, developed in collaboration with the Association for Supply Chain Management Foundation, is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of supply chain operations and the movement of goods within today’s global economy.

This comprehensive self-paced online training program equips participants with the foundational knowledge, technical understanding, and workplace readiness skills necessary to pursue careers in supply chain operations, inventory management, warehousing, distribution, and logistics support.

The curriculum includes industry-recognized training and certification preparation developed in collaboration with leading employers and industry professionals to align with current workforce expectations and operational standards.

Participants will have access to the course for up to six months from the date of enrollment, allowing flexibility to complete training at their own pace while balancing personal responsibilities and career goals.

What You’ll Gain:

Industry-Focused Supply Chain Training: Learn the fundamentals of supply chain operations, inventory management, logistics coordination, warehousing, and distribution processes.
Workplace Readiness & Professional Development: Strengthen communication, problem-solving, organization, teamwork, and operational efficiency skills essential for logistics careers.
Flexible Self-Paced Learning: Access virtual training modules anytime during the six-month enrollment period.
Industry-Recognized Curriculum & Exam Preparation: Participate in training aligned with industry standards and prepare for credentialing opportunities.
Integrated Case Management Support: Receive individualized guidance, encouragement, and barrier reduction support throughout your training experience.
Employment Pathway Opportunities: Build the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in supply chain operations, warehousing, logistics, fulfillment, and inventory management environments.

Interested in our Programs or Services, contact us!

Contact Us

Have a Question About Employment & Training?

Frequently Asked Questions

Our goal is to ensure transparency and accessibility, making it easier for individuals to navigate our offerings and take full advantage of the tools and guidance provided. Whether you are exploring vocational training options, work readiness preparation, case management support, or seeking to partner with our program, this section serves as a valuable starting point.

More Than a Job - NC

Empowering Individuals to Achieve Career Success

Our Impact

Training to Employed: A Success Story

Understanding SNAP Work Requirements

Stay Informed. Stay Compliant. Stay Moving Forward.

Our Programs and Courses

Here's How We Do It

Pathways to Employability

Preparing Individuals for Success in the Workplace

The HELP Institute

Preparing Individuals for Success in the Workplace

Course Overview

Interested in our Programs or Services, contact us!

Is the program free?

How do I enroll in the program?

How long is the program?

Are the classes offered in-person or online?

Will I receive a certificate upon completion?

What services are included in the program?

Do you offer job placement assistance?

Who is eligible to enroll in the Employment & Training Program?

Can I receive supportive services while enrolled?

What if I have barriers to employment, such as a criminal record or limited work experience?

Have a Question About Employment & Training?

Frequently Asked Questions

Training to Employed:
A Success Story

Preparing Individuals for Success
in the Workplace

Preparing Individuals for Success
in the Workplace