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Coronavirus pandemic: Employer looking to hire displaced workers right now

Posted at 4:32 PM, Mar 31, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-16 16:47:18-04

The Independence Center in Colorado Springs is looking to hire displaced workers to fill positions as Certified Nurse Aides and caregivers.

"We have a couple of positions open and we want to fill them as quickly as possible," Home Health Administrator Indy Frazee said.

The Independence Center says there are plenty of job vacancies for people interested in working as a CNA, personal care attendant or a homemaker to help seniors and people with physical disabilities live independently at home.

"Especially in this time of need, caregivers are tending to their own family needs so we're always looking for people to be caregivers," Frazee said.

Without caregivers or CNA's, The Independence Center says more people would be forced into nursing homes or other facilities.

If you're interested in this line of home health care, you'll need to be at least 18 years old, possess a valid driver's license and insurance, pass a background check and have a CPR certification.

CNA's also need to have a state license.

"If you think about it, most people have been caregivers in their life," Frazee said. "You just don't think about yourself as a caregiver. You might have helped a neighbor or family member at one point. Care giving is definitely a personal, intimate type of job and it's not for everyone but I would guess there's a lot of people out there who have been caregivers and can step up to the plate. "

It's now easier than even before to become a CNA.

If you don't already have a license, The Independence Center is offering certifications in as little as four weeks.

Day and night classes are offered.

You may also qualify for financial assistance through the Pikes Peak Workforce Center, according to information provided by The IC.

CNA classes hosted by The Independence Center begin April 6.

"These sessions are limited to nine or fewer people to maintain Coronavirus safety guidelines," The Independence Center said. "Tuition is $950, which is an all-inclusive rate."

Inquiries and resumes for available caregiving jobs can be emailed to hrresumes@the_ic.org. Phone inquiries about becoming a caregiver can be made by calling 719-471-8181.

If you're interested in the CNA Training Program, please call 719-648-1020.

Open positions and job descriptions can be found on The Independence Center web site by clicking here.

"These jobs include various benefits and pay $12.45 to $15.00 per hour depending on the level of care being provided to clients," The IC said.