In 1984, Houston had a “job collapse” that threw thousands out of work. It was then the concept of LIFT Groups was developed. After newscasts on the local television stations presented the training of Facilitators, hundreds of unemployed responded.
      Small groups of 12 or less were formed all over the city, and one furloughed executive from a large oil company headed the volunteer organization. To our surprise, not only did over 1,000 people contact us to enroll in a LIFT Group, but we also began to get many job offers. Thus, the “war room” we set up to keep track of the groups, each had a map with pins on one wall showing geographical locations of groups, and on the opposite wall we created information about job offers!
      Slowly the need for these groups waned as the city recovered. Now, with the massive layoffs taking place in the city, we have restructured these gatherings. If you are interested, there are two steps to take:

1. Complete the signup form on this web site. You will be
    contacted quickly to schedule a time for you to attend an
    introductory session with other interested parties.
2. Attend a one-time gathering to learn about how the groups
    will operate and enroll for a six-session group meeting.

      These group meetings will usually meet in a neutral place. You will share with others who have a similar background and interest with you. The length of each group meeting will be 90 minutes and there will be six topics you can share together. We will recommend the six we think you would profit from, but there are eleven prepared for you to choose from. Your group can select the order and the topics of most interest to you.
      The groups can meet weekly or even twice a week if all are unemployed and have time to meet together. All groups will be facilitated by persons trained by TOUCH COMMUNITY SERVICES to chair the groups.
      The agenda will include an “Ice Breaker” to get acquainted; viewing a video presentation; a summary of the video; and a small group activity related to the topic.
      As we have mentioned in other areas of this web site, this is a faith-based gift of love and there are no fees required to participate. All information provided to us about you is held in strictest confidence and will not be disclosed to others without your express permission.

Have fun, make friends, and HAPPY JOB HUNTING!

Dr. Ralph Neighbour
Chairman, TOUCH COMMUNITY SERVICES
Email: ralph@touchusa.org