An information session for individuals interested in becoming personal care attendants (PCAs ) for the elderly and disabled, will be offered Wednesday, February 24, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at NECC Riverwalk. This is mandatory for anyone interested in enrolling in a free, pilot PCA Fundamentals program offered at Northern Essex Community College.

The 25-hour PCA training program classes will be held Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., March 28 through April 13. This grant-funded program trains individuals in direct care skills used to help the elderly and disabled populations live independently.

Individuals interested in attending the information session must register in advance by contacting Dianne (Dee) Lahaye at dlahaye@necc.mass.edu or 978-659-1222.

This program is ideal for those interested in learning the basic skills and knowledge to enter this in-demand, fast growing field which also serves as a gateway to other health care professions. The current pay for PCAs is $13.68 an hour and work can be part time or full time.

The PCA program reviews the roles and responsibilities of the PCA, consumer rights, confidentiality and ethics, communication, best practices for infection control and reducing worker injury, basic first aid and CPR, life skills, resume writing and interview preparation.

Interested individuals must attend an information session and be eligible to work in the United States to enroll. Participants must attend all training days.