Hal Malone, director of the Community Assistance Network's LIFE (Living Independently ForEver) skills program, said that one of the most important benefits for women in his free 15-week LIFE course is the support they give to and receive from each other.
When I talked on Monday with Mary Amoji-Ogar, who graduated from the program two years ago, I asked her what she thought was the most important aspect of the class. Without hesitating, she said it was the support of the other participants. She added that she and her classmates have stayed in contact, sharing the joy of life's victories as well as the inevitable let-downs.
Malone, 36, has worked for CAN for three years. A graduate of the National Labor College in Silver Spring, he has always worked in social services, including a stint in Washington, D.C., working with El Salvadoran youth.
Although she finished up the course some time ago, Amoji-Ogar said she still frequently calls on Malone for advice and support. And she said he has never hesitated to take whatever time it took to help her work through her issues. He even helped her rehearse for the job interview that landed her a promotion in the YMCA of Baltimore County's Head Start program.
She said, "Hal throws himself out there. He's a very good support person and he'll listen to you regardless. He has a passion for helping people and he'll help you to the end."
The LIFE skills program is held at the CAN office at 7701 Dunmanway in the old Merritt Elementary School building. Classes run from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays and begin each week with a relaxing casual dinner.
Speakers are scheduled each week to help participants learn how to network and use resources as pathways to life improvement. Some speakers promote parenting and stress management skills, while others offer help with money matters, time management and job training.
The course also features computer training and preparation for GED and college testing. Participants can even get help procuring a driver's license.
Malone said there's always time set aside to talk about setting and assessing goals -- all of which helps participants make decisions that build confidence and, ultimately, independence for many women who are typically strapped financially and emotionally.
He added that CAN'S emergency services as well as its 40 years of resources and networking experience are made available to all who take the course.
Amoji-Ogar, who is now a family and community specialist, said the program definitely helped improve her own life skills and will continue to be an asset in her work with the Head Start families she assists. And one day, she and her four children may return to her native Nigeria, where she feels she can help women there learn the benefits of self-sufficiency, motivation and independence. She said, "I've become a self-proclaimed advocate for women and children. I want women to know there's help."
The next LIFE skills program begins Jan. 13. Call Malone, 410-285-4674, to reserve a seat.
Talk of the Town
The Dundalk Eagle 1/6/05
Free course is path to better life for women
"I just want women to know there's help."
Mary Amoji-Ogar
by Diane Pinter
