A February 2011 article by PHI: Training and Organizational Development Services profiled the work of Chesterfield Health Services and its founder, Training Partnership board member Stella Ogiale.

You have the opportunity to take part in a new statewide initiative to provide enriching employment experiences to Home Care Aides and high-quality care to consumers. Highlights of the apprenticeship include a job at a participating employer; a peer mentor who is an experienced home care aide; 75 hours of paid training (Basic Training); 70 hours of additional training (Advanced Training); and a guaranteed raise upon completion of the program.

Please be aware, new training standards began on Jan. 1, 2011. In order to prepare for this shift, note the following key points:

• Starting January 1, 2011 new basic training requirements are in place
• The Department of Health will be providing the Home Care Aide credentialing exam
• The Training Partnership will provide a guide to the specific requirements in a followup announcement as soon as DSHS finalizes WAC.
• Workers hired before December 31, 2010 need only to complete training requirements that were in place at their time of hire