Guide 6 of 14

No cost Job Help and Job Training in Tennessee: American Job Centers and More

How to find work and free job training in Tennessee through American Job Centers, Job Corps, Vocational Rehabilitation, and local day centers.

Need help tonight?

911Danger or emergency right now 988Call or text. Crisis or thinking about suicide. 24 hours 211Shelter, food, bills, anything else 1 800 799 7233Someone hurting you at home. Text START to 88788

Start here

Hi friend. Looking for work is hard, and you don't have to do it alone. Tennessee has free job centers in every county, plus training programs and legal help if a record is holding you back.

Dial 211 Job Corps

Quick answers

What is an American Job Center?

Every Tennessee county is served by an American Job Center, open 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday. Each center offers free Internet access, workshops, job placement, recruitment, training, and help with Jobs4TN.gov to search for jobs. Use the state locator to find yours.

Official page: tn.gov/workforce/jobs-and-education/job-search1/find-local-american-job-center.html

What is Job Corps?

Job Corps is a free training program run by the U.S. Department of Labor. It offers free housing, meals, basic medical care and a living allowance. Call 800 733 5627 to learn how to apply.

Official page: jobcorps.gov

I have a disability. Is there job help for me?

Tennessee Vocational Rehabilitation helps people with disabilities prepare for, find and keep a job. Services can include counseling, training, resume writing, interview practice and job coaching. To ask for help, fill out the Vocational Rehabilitation Referral form on the state page.

Official page: tn.gov/humanservices/ds/vocational-rehabilitation/vr-services-to-eligible-individuals.html

Can I get legal help finding a job with a criminal record?

Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands says it helps with finding a job even with a criminal background, and tells you what may be removed from your record through an expungement. Call 800 238 1443 and leave a voicemail if no one answers.

Official page: las.org/get-help

Where can I use a computer or phone for my job search?

American Job Centers offer free Internet access. In Nashville, Room In The Inn has phone and computer access on weekdays. In Memphis, the Hospitality Hub offers phones and Wi Fi and can point you to Work Local, and in Chattanooga the CHATT Foundation has employment help.

Official page: roomintheinn.org/support-services

Your next steps

Tick each one as you go. Your ticks stay on this phone only.

0 of 4

Find your American Job Center with the state locator.
Register on Jobs4TN.gov. Staff can help.
Ask about free training and workshops.
Keep your ID and papers ready.

All done. You are ready, friend.

Bunkly tip: use a library, job center or day center address and phone for employers if you don't have your own. Ask the staff if they can take messages.