By Steven Calhoun/Staff Writer

An education provides the tools necessary to succeed in the workforce. Some people never completed their high school education. However, it is never too late to get an education.

Kelsey’s Place, a local non-profit organization, offers GED prep classes, literacy classes and computer training. The classes are free and anyone can take them.

The GED allows people who did not finish high school to earn a high school-equivalency credential. According to the GED website, most graduates of the program work at their own pace and earn their diploma in less than three months. Kelsey’s Place offers GED preparation assistance every day.

Computer proficiency is another tool that learners can gain at Kelsey’s Place, and it is more important than ever.

“More and more applications for jobs are online now,” said Betty Tidwell, Office Manager and Instructor at Kelsey’s Place. “If people looking for a job can’t use a computer, they are at a disadvantage.”

Tidwell said the program will train people how to navigate computers and use the Internet to improve the effectiveness of their job search.

“We want to help people be more prepared to get a job,” said Tidwell. She said the goal of the program is to equip workers so they can give back to their community and experience financial independence.

Kelsey’s Place is supported by the United Way, Community Action and donations from the community.  Community Action helps supply teaching materials. The rest are purchased with donations or are free resources online.

According to Tidwell, Maria Singleton donated not only time but also resources to the facility. Kelsey’s Place is thankful for Singleton’s and all donations received and will always accept more.

Computer classes are offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-3p.m. beginning in September. Literacy classes are on Mondays and Wednesdays from 1-3p.m. GED prep is offered every day during Kelsey’s Place’s normal hours of 8a.m.-3p.m.

To find out more, call Kelsey’s Place at (205)755-7101. Kelsey’s Place is located at 950 Lumac Road, behind Dollar General. Visitors are advised to call ahead before attending their first class.