Common Ground Institute
Criteria: Referrals are accepted for inmates that meet program standards
The Common Ground Institute offers programs designed to provide students with specific instruction in the areas of Carpentry, Landscape, Building Maintenance and a 10-hour OSHA (Occupational, Safety and Health Education) class. Participants will receive certifications from the State of Massachusetts Department of Employment and Training, OSHA Certification along with Common Ground Institute Certificate.
Basic Auto 101
This program is intended to advance the participants’ knowledge about owning, maintaining, and repairing automobiles. Shop activities include completing design procedures that involve the inspection, replacement, and identification of automotive components.
Small Engine Repair
The course is designed to provide the participants with an introduction and training to the repair, maintenance and safe operation of small engine equipment. Maintenance and troubleshooting procedures of small gasoline combustion engines are emphasized, as well as the techniques for the proper use of this equipment.
Urban Farming Initiative
Participants of this program are taught the basics of urban agriculture. They grow a wide range of produce that is then used in the institution’s kitchen. Surplus crops have also been distributed to nearby shelters for unhoused people, recovery and domestic violence.
Culinary Arts Program
The culinary arts program is designed to provide participants with 360 hours of instruction to begin their path in the food service industry. The participants learn food preparation, cooking production, and product schedules while also being trained as preparation cooks, line cooks, assistant bakers, and other vital roles in today’s food service industry.
Retail Training Program
The retail training program emphasizes skills utilized in the retail industry and other transferable skills. In addition to reviewing the intricacies of customer service skills, this program teaches participants how to complete a sales transaction, and covers the basics of monitoring inventory, stocking inventory, ordering inventory and presentation of products being sold.
Food Sanitation
Classes are offered on Monday and Wednesday for men and woman. The class provides instruction in the regulations governing sanitation: where bacteria is found; how food becomes contaminated; which foods are potentially hazardous; and methods for the elimination of those hazards. Upon completion of an examination the student will receive a NIFI (National Institute for Foodservice Industry) Certificate.
Keyboarding /Computer Literacy
Classes provide instruction in basic keyboarding along with use of Microsoft Office products. Classes are necessary for anyone transitioning into the Vocational training programs. Classes are Monday through Friday and run in periods 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 in the computer lab.
Graphic Arts
Morning and evening classes offer instruction in computer design, documents and web design. Additionally the course introduces print production, document mass production and screen print.
