Riverview Gardens

Mission: To build dignity through job training and employment.

Riverview Gardens is a non-profit organization in Appleton, Wisconsin. We believe in the dignity of hard work and allowing people to be part of their own solution. This project engages the entire community in addressing the root causes of unemployment, poverty and homelessness through hard work, creativity and human dignity. Riverview Gardens approaches its vision with the core concept that all people have value and can contribute to the community where they live. There is dignity in work, and work can be transformative.

We seek to engage the entire community in addressing the root causes of unemployment, poverty and homelessness through hard work, creativity and human dignity. Our various programs include:

• ServiceWorks is Riverview Gardens’ no-fail, job-training program that teaches four key transferable work skills to help people obtain stable, permanent employment. Upon completing the 90-hour program, participants are connected to employment and receive supportive services through a three-year Placement Success Program, to ensure progress and stability. ServiceWorks also provides students and youth with a head start on career choices, as well as the employment and leadership skills that will enable them to make a smooth transition and succeed in college and/or the workplace.
• Our Adult Culinary Program provides fundamental kitchen skills along with soft skills training to set participants up for success in the food service and hospitality industry.
• Our Earn-A-Bike Program is an opportunity for community members to work together to address a common barrier to employment by providing low cost and reliable transportation to people in need.
• Through the D.O.O.R.S. program – Directing Ourselves and Others in Responsible Social Activities – participants engage in healthy, pro-social activities at Riverview Gardens’ interactive property. The D.O.O.R.S. program is peer-led to give participants an opportunity to build on prior successes, create new positive social relationships, share ideas on how to maintain sobriety and a criminal-free life, and have fun.

Upon graduation from ServiceWorks, we have five interactive social enterprises that provide unlimited job-training opportunities and sources of revenue to support the mission.

1. Urban Farm
2. Hydroponics Greenhouse
3. Community Center and Park Space
4. Maintenance Contracts
5. C.A.R.E. Team in Downtown Appleton