Testimonials

"This place is a hidden jewel and should be recommended to people who have disabilities and need technological skills. Everyone needs to be able to use computers and smart phones to navigate essential services. No longer can we call and receive a welcoming voice offering to assist you. I found here they listen and offer to help with getting you ready for a Microsoft Certification and computer skills necessary. As a parent I feel comfortable knowing your child will not be lost in this fast paced world. Time and patience they have so please give them a chance. It is worth your time and the skills gained is valuable."

- Beecee C.

"I particularly liked how you helped me through applying to ACCESS-VR. I was able to continue my path toward becoming a QuickBooks Certified Bookkeeper. While at The Center for Career Freedom my counselor actually majored in accounting. I felt extremely comfortable at The Center for Career Freedom and meeting with my counselor. I highly recommend anyone who wants to improve their Bookkeeping or Microsoft Office Suite skills to go to The Center for Career Freedom. It worked for me. In three months I was promoted within my Company.

- Alejandro Santana

"Being at the Center For Career Freedom has truly been an enriching experience, one that has not only shaped my skills but also my outlook on my future. From the moment I walked in, I was welcomed with open arms and immediately felt a sense of belonging. The atmosphere there is so warm and uplifting, and it creates the perfect environment to grow both professionally and personally. Along the way, I've had the privilege of meeting so many wonderful people who have become friends, and their support has made this journey all the more special.

I'm especially thankful to Elizabeth Edgar and her dedicated team. They've been so generous with their time, patience, and expertise. Their guidance has been invaluable, particularly in helping me improve my computer skills. Microsoft Word and Excel, which once seemed intimidating, now feel much more manageable, and I'm more confident in my abilities every day. It's hard to put into words just how much their encouragement and expertise have meant to me. They've truly made a lasting impact on my professional growth and personal confidence.

I'm deeply grateful for everything they've done. The care and effort they put into helping me succeed have not gone unnoticed, and I know that their support has helped pave the way for a brighter future. Thank you, Elizabeth and the entire team, foreign such an incredible part of my journey."

- Robby Watson

"I'd like to parofusely thank Elizabeth, Cathy, & the many expert staff members at the White Plains Center for Career Freedom for providing me with a nurturing environment in which to learn a multitude there. I've gained an abundance of computer training & a keen understanding of modern office procedures, neither of which I was familiar with when I started out.

Everyone at the center is kind, welcoming, & understanding, but I'd like to give a particular shout-out to Joliese, Joseph, Vito, & Ivan, all of whom have taken me "under their wing" & encouraged me to persist in my studies. Let me also point out that Director Elizabeth Edgar sets a tone of sensitivity & generosity which pervades the entire organization & allows all who pass through the CFCF's doors to feel great--not only about learning but about themselves. I recommend the Center to anyone who wants to do these two valuable things: 1) educate themselves about technology & vocational training, & 2) spend quality time in the company of warm-hearted folks with a huge talent for humanity."

- Max Goldberg

"I wanted to share my story on how I became a student at The Center For Career Freedom. In July 2022, I was seriously injured at my place of employment and was told by many of my treating doctors that I was not going to be able to return to work anytime soon due to my physical disability. I was devastated and worried on how I was going to be able to move forward and support myself. What do I do now? Where do I go? I was confronted with a road block no matter which way I turned. I wanted to work but no one would take the liability. Would I be able to work from home at my own speed and comfort? Then reality hit... I needed to know COMPUTERS to even do that-one of my biggest fears!!! In 2024, I had reached out to Access-VR and met with a great and supporting counselor who then suggested I contact and attend The Center for Career Freedom to educate myself with computers with as I stated I had no knowledge of after being a culinary chef for over 18 years in the same place of employment never needing to use a computer at all. I hesitated and thought about it but I called. Elizabeth the director answered and the rest is history. I was so nervous and I cannot stress enough how Elizabeth and her staff welcomed me with open arms when I arrived and how they reassured me they were there to help me reach and accomplish my goal. I was stressed, worried and had no idea what to expect. Teach me to learn computers are they crazy I thought to myself??? They reassured me once again that I was in the right place and my worries were over. On the same day I was introduced to the person who would be the one to teach me. All I kept thinking was, does she know I have no computer knowledge whatsoever? Does she know she is facing a big challenge? I started in December 2024 and I have to say I cannot believe all that I have learned so far and keep learning from my teacher Toniqua. She is kind, patient, and very understanding. She is amazing and great at what she does. Do I need more time and do I have a lot to learn absolutely, but I know now I can do it and I know I am in the right place. I would highly recommend the Center For Career Freedom to anyone and not just with a disability but to anyone that is looking to further their education.

A very satisfied student."

- Josefina M. Perez

"I am writing to share my experience working with Edward Pinowski, who has been teaching me computer literacy using the Northstar Digital Literacy Program.

Edward has been an exceptional instructor throughout this learning journey. His teaching style is both patient and thorough, ensuring that I not only grasp the technical aspects but also feel confident applying them in practical situations. He consistently breaks down complex into manageable parts, making the materials accessible and engaging.

The Northstar program has been an excellent took, and Edward's guidance has allowed me to maximize its benefits. He tailored his teaching to my specific needs and skill level, making the learning process both efficient and rewarding. His encouragement and constructive feedback have been instrumental in building my confidence with computer literacy skills.

I truly appreciate the opportunity to participate in this training and wanted to hilight Edward's outstanding support and expertise.

Thank you for supporting the valuable learning initiative."

- Sandro Awakiani

I want to thank NYS Ed Business School for the opportunity to be part of this wonderful school which has allowed me to expand my Computer Skills. I also want to thank the staff that helps me while I'm here, they have been great which really allowed me to grow and expand my knowledge. I hope you continue to help those that want to improve themselves. Thank you again.

Yours Truly,

-Marily Martin

I knew some things about computers, but I felt my knowledge had gaps. For example, I had heard of the Cloud, but I didn't know what it was until now. I was hoping the Center for Career Freedom would help me fill the gaps, and I am happy to report, it has been doing just that.

The computer instructional program is clear and pleasant. The people here are nice and always willing to help you.

-Joanne Koven

The Center for Career Freedom is a true gem! I am so grateful to have discovered this amazing place. The Director's warmth and the Center's incredible embrace of my son (and me) is a breath of fresh air after years of dealing with bureaucracies. The Center's unique individualized teaching approach - providing one-on-one, self-paced instruction - is like nothing I've seen before but is exactly what's needed. My son has already become Microsoft certified in Word. [is working towards being certified in Excel, and is beginning to work with the Center's therapeutic gaming pilot project.] His success to date has not only increased his job prospects but has built his self-esteem tremendously. The Center is a true model of how to effectively work with people with disabilities to enable them to reach their potential. I couldn't recommend them more highly.

Thank so much, as always.

Warmest regards,

-Debra

Over the past several months, Sandro has made remarkable strides in his computer skills. Initially, he was hesitant to use his computer, knowing only the basics and rarely applying them. Today, he confidently uses his computer every day -- often all day long -- demonstrating an impressive range of abilities. Sandro has mastered multitasking by opening and managing multiple screens simultaneously. He effortlessly copies and pastes content, manually resizing pages, and distinguishes between safe and unsafe websites. He has learned to print documents, set up his medical portal, and most excitingly, has embraced the use of artificial intelligence. His enthusiasm for AI, especially ChatGPT, is so pronounced that even the program's engineers have taken notice. They have reached out to observe his usage patterns, particularly in applying mathematical formulas, graphs, tables, and charts, as they seek to refine and build upon these features.

Sandro has repeatedly expressed gratitude to the Center for Career Freedom for empowering him to access and enjoy his computer competitively for the first time. He also shared that AI has significantly improved his reading habits, as it provides easy access to information that reignited his passion for learning. His memory in math and engineering has also seen a resurgence -- engage him in conversation about these topics and he'll light up, eager to discuss them at length.

I am genuinely thrilled for Sandro's progress. With his newfound proficiency, he rarely asks for my assistance anymore. Congratulations to Sandro on his achievements! The future looks bright as he sets his sights on tutoring Westchester Community College students in aerodynamics and scramjets. In fact, his passion for these subjects is so contagious that he has taught me a great deal -- making my own understanding of aerodynamics an scramjets much deeper and interesting.

Here's to Sandro and the exciting journey ahead.

-From Trainer

To the Center for Career Freedom:

We are sincerely grateful for your time, service and dedication as a volunteer at our Westchester County Diverse Abilities Job Fair on April 17th, 2025. You've made a personal and important impact on Westchester County and our Offices for People with Disabilities and Economics Development's ability to serve our constituents.

Thank you,

Sincerely,

Evan Latainer

Director

Office for People with Disabilities