West Philadelphia Skills Center for Economic Advancement

Participant guidelines and Program components

West Philadelphia Skills Center for Economic Development

Interested in gaining employment in Children's Hospital of Philadelphia’s (CHOP) Patient Sitter department? In September, the West Philadelphia Skills Initiative (WPSI) Center for Economic Advancement will launch the fifth session of its Connect to Success program. Building on WPSI's successful partnership with CHOP, this four-week training program is tailored for West Philadelphians interested in the Patient Sitter position. Patient Sitters provide invaluable patient support throughout the hospital, and the Center prepares participants to succeed in this complex and rewarding role. The Center's last session in the spring resulted in job offers for eight trainees within hours of completing the program.

The application period for the September cohort will open on Monday, August 5. Please check back soon to complete your application online.

Participant guidelines

You must be:

  • Unemployed
  • A resident of the following zip codes: 19104, 19131, 19139, 19143, 19151
  • A high school graduate (or have a GED)
  • Able to pass all program screenings (drug, criminal, reading)
  • Able to demonstrate previous work experience that includes child care

Program Components

  • Four weeks of unpaid training, 5 days a week, 6 hours per day

To learn more about the program:

  • Visit our website: universitycity.org/wpscea
  • Stop by the Center and pick up a Frequently Asked Question sheet
  • Or call 267-299-5849 or email Marcia Smith at [email protected]