Innovative Program for Non-English Speakers Combines Career and Educational Opportunity in Louisville
UPS is a global company, shipping to over 220 countries worldwide from distribution hubs like Louisville’s Worldport headquarters. The Worldport headquarters employs over 22,000 Kentuckians alone and is constantly looking to expand its workforce. This unique combination of global and local perspectives in conjunction with its need to grow its employee base inspired UPS to create the International Community Job Program.
Because Louisville has long been a destination for refugees and immigrants, the International Community Job Program aims to help integrate these members of the Louisville community into the United States by offering part-time employment and educational opportunities, even if the potential employee does not speak fluent English or is not a US Citizen.
The Program at a Glance
Moving to a new country is scary. Learning a new language and understanding local customs can be a challenge. UPS wants to help. The UPS International Community Job Program is an exciting opportunity for non-English speakers to obtain gainful employment, community integration, and valuable education while working for one of the largest companies in Louisville.
The goal of the International Community Job Program is to provide program participants part-time job opportunities at the UPS Worldport facility. UPS knows having access to immediate economic resources is key to a successful transition here in Louisville. The ICJP helps program participants establish roots here in the local community while maintaining secure employment.
Most program participants are Spanish language speakers. Because of this UPS currently offers a job training class in Spanish, but all foreign language speaking applicants who enter the ICJP can benefit from a slower-paced classroom and operations training experience. Participants in the program have access to multi- lingual support from their peers as well as Quality Trainers who support them in the operation. Not to mention, tuition reimbursement up to $25,000 lifetime cap is available for every employee through the Earn and Learn Program!
Antonio’s Story
Meet Antonio Abreu, a training supervisor and participant in the International Community Job Program. Antonio emigrated from Cuba in 2015 with the hopes of studying to become a Doctor. At the time he arrived, he spoke no English. He was
accepted into the International Community Job Program where he was taught English, new job skills, and trained in a new career. “The program is about welcoming immigrants and refugees to the community of Louisville at UPS,” recallsAntonio.
With the help of UPS and its Metropolitan College program affiliate, Antonio was able to go to school, where he is pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. “It feels amazing, coming from a third world country to the United States, with all these big opportunities,” says Antonio. He encourages other immigrants and refugees to apply.
International Community Job Program Coordinator, Casandra Hernandez, agrees. She came to Louisville as a baby from Jalisco, Mexico and now helps run the International Community Jobs Program. “I came here as a baby,” she remembers. “And now I have to give back.” When asked if she has a message for other immigrants considering this innovative program, Casandra replies, “You’re welcomed! We want you here!”
Who Can Participate
The UPS International Community Job Program is available to anyone living in Louisville with a Permanent Resident card, Employment Authorization Card, or US Citizenship.
How It Works
The best way to get invovled in the International Community Job Program is to contact Casandra Hernandez directly. She regularly helps those who speak little or no English with the UPS job application process. She can be reached at: icjp@ups.com or casandrahernandez@ups.com or by text or telephone call at (502) 398-1274.