Transitional Assistance Grant (TAG)
Objective
The purpose of the Transitional Assistance Grant (TAG) is to provide access to career transition and outplacement services for Clergy Project participants who are transitioning out of active Ministry. TAG was made possible by the Stiefel Freethought Foundation and is administered by the Clergy Project’s Career Development Committee.
Services
TAG provides 6 months of Outplacement Services, including skills assessment, resume assistance, and networking with recruiters and potential employers. The cost of this program is $2,200 and will be paid by TCP directly to RiseSmart, the agency responsible for providing TCP Outplacement Services.
- Career assessment and job search strategy
- Communication, networking, and social media strategies.
- Interview preparation, follow up and salary negotiation.
- Make connections with hiring managers.
Applicants
Applicants for assistance must meet the following conditions:
- Committed to seeking secular employment
- Residing in the United States or Canada
Sustainability
Although applicants are not under obligation to repay the fee, they are encouraged to contribute back to the program at a time that they are gainfully employed and as their financial situation enables them to do so. This would allow the fund to remain self-sustaining for the benefit of future TCP applicants.
Feedback from TAG Alumni
“My transition specialist gave me invaluable insight as to how to actually search for jobs. I wanted something remote and did not even know there was the ability to search for remote jobs in particular. She was very encouraging but did not sugar coat our dealings. I totally appreciated her! The resume writer was professional and also gave insight into things to highlight on my resume. She understood the plight of the older job searcher and, during a time when I was feeling not as good about myself as I could be, she was able to find things in my background that I totally forgot about doing!”
Yvette W.
“I’m happy with the help I’m getting from Risesmart. Lorraine has been impressive with preparing my resume, and Cassandra is quick to respond to my emails with sound advice. After having been discouraged for a while, it has been a boost to get their help.”
David M.
“No problems and no concerns. Still in the beginning stages. I’m in no hurry. Things are going well. It seems a re-working of my resume is in process, and from there I will receive help with cover-letters a better focus on how I can transition from what I have been doing since grad-school to finding a ‘real-world job’ – as a couple of my friends call it. So, all is well!”
“I have had nothing but help and good experience with my Transition Specialist. Nothing but help from my resume writer and a great summary of how my resume needed focus and polishing.”
Buck M.
“[My Transition Specialist] cared and was very encouraging. She understood the difficult emotional situation I found myself in and was patient. She kept her promises and was ‘there for me’ at a time when I needed someone who understood.”
Anonymous
“I’m sorry that our time working together is ending. I appreciate the work you’ve done to help me.”
Anonymous
“Because the people at RiseSmart genuinely care about their clients, keep their commitments, display professionalism and expertise, I am confident they could help almost anyone find a job.”
Anonymous
“Wanted to let you know that I received a job offer. Thank you for all your help.”
Anonymous