What is my first week like?
Your first week at Better Futures Minnesota focuses on getting you set up as an employee and completing paid training. Each day begins at 7:00 AM with team warmups, followed by guided training from 7:20 AM to 3:30 PM. A dedicated trainer will support you throughout the process and help you succeed.
Within 3–5 days, you’ll earn key certifications, including OSHA 10, Fall Protection, Bloodborne Pathogens, Hazard Safety, and Warehouse Safety, preparing you to safely join our crews.
Training includes two paid 15-minute breaks and a 30-minute lunch. You’ll receive a catered to-go lunch each day, a bus pass if needed, and once training is complete, you’ll be provided with free Better Futures work gear, such as steel-toe boots, pants, PPE, and branded apparel.
You’ll be paid every Friday. Like most jobs, there’s a one-week delay before your first paycheck while payroll is processed. After that, you’ll receive weekly pay, and we’ll help you set up direct deposit so your money is available as soon as it’s issued.
What type of work will I be doing?
Participants gain hands-on experience by working across Better Futures Minnesota’s business lines, including deconstruction, ReUse Warehouse sales, appliance recycling, property maintenance, curbside collection, and organics pick-ups.
You’ll rotate through different areas over time to build skills, explore different types of work, and develop real job experience. This approach helps participants discover their strengths and prepares them for future employment opportunities.
What are Community Meetings?
Community Meetings take place every Thursday from 2:30 to 3:30 PM, when all participants return to the warehouse to come together as a group. During this time, we discuss a topic related to growth, work, or life skills, and occasionally invite guest speakers from the community.
These meetings are an important part of the model, creating space for connection, reflection, and support. It’s a time for participants to share experiences, learn from one another, and strengthen the sense of community that helps everyone succeed.
What kind of support will I receive while in the model?
Participants receive ongoing support from managers, coaches, and peers throughout their time in the model. Each participant is also assigned a dedicated life coach who helps guide them on their journey and is available whenever support is needed.
This support includes regular check-ins, guidance on workplace expectations, and help building skills that strengthen both job success and personal growth.
