Temple outreach offers help in time of tough economy

Temple Rodeph Torah of Marlboro has launched a community outreach program to assist individuals and families in central New Jersey who have been affected financially or emotionally by the difficult economic environment.

The program, called TRTCares, is a nondenominational initiative that offers legal, financial, emotional health, and career counseling professional advice to those in need on a confidential and completely free of charge basis.

“The mission of TRTCares is to provide a helping hand to residents of the local community who require expert assistance,” said David Levy, a member of Temple Rodeph Torah and the TRTCares chairman. “TRTCares is staffed with over 120 volunteers, including professionals in the fields of law, finance, real estate, emotional health, and career counseling. Our volunteers come from many area temples, churches and organizations, and have been drawn together by their common desire to assist those in need.”

TRTCares began to advertise its services in December 2008 and since that time has received calls from dozens of local residents, according to a press release.

“We are very proud of our volunteers and their generous contribution of time and expertise,” Levy said. “Our services have been very well received by the community.”

In January, the majority of calls came from individuals who recently lost employment. In response to the immediate needs of these callers, TRTCares has formed a career counseling workshop.

The first workshop took place on Feb. 5. Led by four volunteer career counseling experts, including corporate human resources executives and professional “headhunters,” the two-hour workshop offered valuable and timely advice in networking, résumé writing, interviewing and job-search strategies, according to the press release.

Additional workshops are planned by TRTCares in the future.

To further assist area residents, TRTCares maintains an active job bank that circulates résumés to a wide audience and lists employment opportunities.

Anyone seeking the services of TRTCares may call 732- 320-8287. Volunteers wishing to provide their expertise or help in administering the program should send an e-mail to [email protected]. All calls are confidential.

Temple Rodeph Torah is a Reform Jewish congregation serving western Monmouth County.