Workshops scheduled to aid laid-off workers

OLD TOWN – In response to the Georgia-Pacific Corp. mill closing, the Penobscot County Transition Team is offering workshops to the public free of charge.

The transition team includes local organizations, business leaders and lawmakers whose goal is to help workers recover from layoffs and closures.

All workshops will be held at the Earland Sleight Training Center on Main Street unless otherwise noted.

To reserve a seat, call Penquis CAP at (800) 215-4942 or 973-3500.

. Health Care Options 9 a.m. or 1 p.m. June 13 – Learn what health care services are available and how to access them. Information on COBRA health benefits will be available. In addition, there will be an opportunity to discuss health situations one-on-one to determine the best solution for health care needs.

. Starting a Small Business

Part I: Is Self-Employment An Option? 9 a.m.-noon May 31 – The workshop will provide individuals with basic information on starting a small business, including information about the Maine Enterprise Option, a self-assessment to determine if a person is an entrepreneur, a chance to test a business idea and other resources to help start a business.

Part II: Starting Your Own Business 5:30-7:30 p.m. June 8, Black Bear Inn, Orono – Once a person has determined that self-employment is the right step, the workshop will show how to develop a business plan and why one is needed and cover financing options. This workshop is sponsored by Clear Channel Radio.

. Coping with Transition 9 a.m.-noon May 30 – Coping with transition often triggers feelings such as shock, anxiety and confusion. The workshop shows how to move through the stages and leave with concrete steps to ease the transition. The workshop will feature a panel discussion with former displaced workers who will share what works, what doesn’t and what resources are useful.

. Planning Your Financial Future 9 a.m. or 1 p.m. June 1 – This 30-minute workshop will provide information and tools to avoid costly mistakes during uncertain times, including practical tips on establishing a budget as well as a reasonable bill-payment process. The workshop will also address how to talk about the financial future with banks or financial institutions. Financial planners will be on hand immediately after the session to talk to participants one-on-one.