Reintegrating the Long-Term Unemployed: A French Association’s Innovative Approach
In Fismes, Marne, France, Les Ateliers des Vallées Ardre et Vesle (AVAV) is tackling the complex challenge of long-term unemployment with a dual-pronged approach. Founded in 2010, the association operates both a chantier d’insertion (insertion worksite) – ACITER – and an entreprise d’insertion (insertion company) – EBENE – designed to help individuals overcome barriers to employment and rebuild their professional lives.
Addressing the Root Causes of Unemployment
AVAV doesn’t simply offer job training; it addresses the underlying issues that often prevent individuals from re-entering the workforce. The association works with individuals identified by France Travail, the Mission Locale, and the Marne Department, focusing on those facing significant obstacles. These can include long periods of unemployment, homelessness, mobility issues, language barriers, or disabilities.
ACITER and EBENE: Two Pathways to Employment
ACITER, the chantier d’insertion, provides a gradual return to work through short-term, fixed-term contracts (CDDI) starting at 26, 30, and progressing to 35 hours per week. EBENE, the entreprise d’insertion, offers a more focused pathway, specializing in wood recovery and resale as firewood. EBENE targets individuals with greater potential for immediate employment, concentrating on professional project development rather than addressing personal issues.
A Team of Experienced Professionals
The success of AVAV lies in its dedicated team. The permanent staff are all professionals who have undergone career changes themselves – former skilled tradespeople, military recruiters, teachers, and even former ACITER employees. This shared experience allows them to connect with and understand the challenges faced by those they assist.
Beyond Job Skills: Addressing Personal Needs
AVAV recognizes that securing employment is often contingent on resolving personal issues. The association provides comprehensive support, including assistance with legal matters, addiction treatment, housing, and even obtaining a driver’s license. Crucially, this support is integrated into working hours, ensuring individuals don’t lose income while addressing these challenges. As Sébastien Biniaux, director of AVAV, emphasizes, “If you tell a worker they lose money whenever they try to solve a personal problem, it can’t work.”
Real-Life Impact: Mickaël’s Story
Mickaël’s story exemplifies AVAV’s impact. After two years of unemployment and struggling with alcoholism, he found support at the chantier d’insertion. He was able to address his addiction while simultaneously gaining work experience. Today, he works in agriculture and is pursuing his driver’s license, proudly noting that he’s “lost a very faithful customer” at a local store – a sign of his improved financial stability.
The Importance of Soft Skills and Work Ethic
AVAV places a strong emphasis on developing essential soft skills and a strong work ethic. Participants learn the importance of punctuality, diligence, respectful communication, and providing notice for absences. These skills are crucial for success in any workplace.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite its success, AVAV faces challenges. Sébastien Biniaux highlights the difficulties posed by the rural location of Fismes, which limits access to employment opportunities in nearby cities like Reims. He also points to the lack of a technical high school in the area, leading to a potential disconnect for young people interested in skilled trades.
Upcoming Initiatives: “Tous ensemble pour l’emploi”
Looking ahead, AVAV is planning a job fair, “Tous ensemble pour l’emploi” (All Together for Employment), in September 2026. The event will connect job seekers with approximately forty local businesses, fostering potential employment opportunities.
FAQ
Q: Who is eligible for AVAV’s programs?
A: Individuals who have been unemployed for a long or very long period, those experiencing homelessness, mobility issues, language barriers, or those with disabilities are eligible.
Q: What types of work are offered at ACITER?
A: Activities include collecting, sorting, and compacting cardboard, paper, plastics, and polystyrene; maintaining green spaces; and winter snow removal.
Q: How does EBENE differ from ACITER?
A: EBENE focuses on wood recovery and resale, targeting individuals with a higher likelihood of immediate employment and concentrating on professional development.
Q: Is support provided for personal issues?
A: Yes, AVAV provides comprehensive support for personal issues, integrated into working hours, including assistance with legal matters, addiction treatment, and housing.
Interested in learning more about innovative approaches to employment? Explore additional resources on Industrie & Conditionnement Grand Est and Les Ateliers des Vallées Ardre et Vesle.
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