Resilient Roots Apprenticeship Program

Formerly known as the Peer Parent Support Social Work Scholarship Program (PPSSWSSP)

Through an application process, Mesa Community College in collaboration with the Family Involvement Center (FIC) will be offering tuition scholarships, career training and job placement for eligible parents who are in recovery from an opiate or other substance use disorder.

Tuition scholarships will be provided through the Resilient Roots Apprenticeship Program every six months beginning January 2025 and ending in Fall 2028.

Benefits

As a parent, if you qualify and are selected, you will receive as part of the scholarship program:

  • Tuition at MCC
  • A monthly stipend
  • Reimbursement for books and supplies
  • A new computer to keep upon successful completion of MCC course work
  • Support services from MCC and FIC

As a participant in the program, after completing classes you are also eligible to be hired in a paid position as an apprentice in a peer support program, leading to a possible career in helping other families in difficult situations.

The apprenticeship program is 2,000 hours of paid employment providing full- or part-time peer support. The apprenticeship includes an hourly wage, benefits and a stipend to support you and your family’s needs while participating in the program.

Eligibility

  • Must have a high school diploma or GED.
  • Must be available to be admitted, registered and enrolled at Mesa Community College and start a class at MCC.
  • Must agree to attend college-level social work classes offered in a live online, online or face-to-face and hybrid format.
  • Must be prepared and agree to complete 40-150 hours of a service-learning internship with FIC by signing a commitment letter to participate in both years of the program, if accepted.

Video from the FIC about what a Peer Support Specialist is and what he/she does to help parents.

Apply Today

A cohort of students will be selected twice each year based upon the application and interview process. Following the receipt of applications, those selected will be required to attend a mandatory virtual orientation. If you attend the orientation, you will be selected for a panel interview to determine who joins the cohort.

The Resilient Roots Apprenticeship Program (RRAP) is offered through a four-year grant with the Health Services Resource Administration (HRSA) to fund an opioid-impacted parent support program and a collaboration between FIC and Mesa Community College’s Social Work Program.

Questions

If you have any questions, please contact Erin Teach at erin@familyinvolvementcenter.org

In collaboration with: Family Involvement Center