Thursday, October 29, 2015

Job Posting - Data Entry Clerk


We are currently trying to fill a Data Entry Clerk for a very prominent Fortune 150 client of ours and it is in Philadelphia, PA. You can find the details below.  If you are a fit for this position and are interested in hearing more please email your resume to alexandra.voshol@thefountaingroup.com and I will contact you.  If you are NOT a fit for this position; Please refer this email to anyone you know who might be interested. 

Job Description:

Performs data entry of information into Accounts Payable system of invoices so the invoice can be paid.



Please reply with your resume and list a range of hourly compensation you are looking for!!!


Thanks,

Alexandra Voshol | Recruiter
alexandra.voshol@TheFountainGroup.com|

LIHEAP Available Beginning November 2, 2015


Garlic and 8 Other Foods That Fight Allergies Naturally

With autumn thoroughly underway, allergies become a problem for many of us. If you find yourself sniffling, carrying around tissues, and rubbing your eyes, don’t despair — read on to discover powerful foods to fight those seasonal allergies!
Even if you are someone who deals with allergies in the spring or summer, working on a robust nutritional regime can go a long way toward reversing these troubles.
But first, the bad news… Experts report that allergy season may be getting longer, coinciding with global warming and pollution levels. Those nasty pollen-producing plants are able to live longer in the absence of colder temperatures, and the pollen has a more potent effect.
This means there is no time like the present to start arming ourselves against that irritating powder by bolstering our immune systems with — you guessed it — fresh, real food. Because runny noses just aren’t sexy!
Foods that fight allergies naturally
It’s time to take a trip to the farmers’ market! There are so many delicious seasonal choices that can help stave off allergy symptoms. Here’s what to stash in your reusable totes:
Garlic: A 2012 study published in the International Journal of Food Science & Technology reported that fresh, raw garlic was effective at suppressing the release of a substance called beta-hexosaminidase. The inhibition of this substance is an effective measure against allergic reactions. The researchers noted that fresh garlic was more effective than aged black garlic.
Furthermore, garlic contains a hefty dose of vitamin C, which is well known as an immune system supporter. It also calms the release of histamine and ameliorates its effects. Most of us are familiar with the term antihistamine in reference to the over-the-counter drugs commonly used to soothe allergies. That’s because histamine is a compound naturally released by the body when it is irritated enough to trigger an allergic reaction. Garlic slows this reactive process, and also speeds the breakdown of histamine so the reaction isn’t as severe.
As if that isn’t enough, garlic also suppresses certain enzymes, including prostaglandins and thromboxanes, which stimulate the release of inflammatory compounds and may be tied to allergies.
Garlic bulbs and cloves on wooden table, closeupHow to get the most benefit from garlic? Purchase whole cloves, and avoid garlic that has been processed in any way. Pre-peeled cloves are usually stored in plastic, and crushed ones are usually packaged with soybean oil or other unwanted toxic oils. Instead, just buy a whole head of garlic, break apart the cloves, and then crush them with the flat side of a large chef’s knife. This makes the cloves much easier to peel, and also incites a process whereby an active medicinal ingredient called allicin starts to multiply.
Try mixing fresh, raw, chopped garlic into homemade sauces and dips like guacamole, salsa, pesto, hummus or tzatziki. They are all so easy to make in a food processor — yum!
Broccoli: This healthy staple is rich in two allergy fighting nutrients, namely vitamin C and folate. As mentioned above, vitamin C helps solve that histamine cascade that tends to take over the body when allergens are present. Broccoli contains about 80 mg of vitamin C per cup, but since a daily intake of up to 1000 mg is recommended for allergy sufferers, supplements can be helpful too.
The folate content of broccoli is helpful because it boosts the immune system and brings down inflammation, which can be a result of the reaction to allergens. Studies have found that people with a lower folate intake tend to have more severe allergic and respiratory symptoms.
Try eating lightly steamed broccoli with a little olive oil and sea salt sprinkled on top. Another tasty recipe is finely chopped broccoli in a raw slaw-style salad tossed with yogurt, garlic and other diced veggies of your choice.
Tomatoes: Here is another vitamin C champion to help reduce those allergies. The Mediterranean diet is rich in tomatoes and other vegetables in the nightshade family. Studies examining the merits of the Mediterranean diet have found that fewer allergy symptoms are seen in areas where this diet is the mainstay.
How about that freshly chopped salsa we mentioned earlier?
Leafy greens: The whole family of leafy greens is an allergy-fighting powerhouse. It includes kale, collard greens, spinach and chard. All greens are rich in vitamin C, folate and vitamin E, which bolster the immune system against the onslaught of allergies.
Other green vegetables, like avocados and asparagus, are also great sources of folate.
The best way to enjoy leafy greens is lightly sautéed in grass-fed butter with some fresh herbs and coarse salt. They should be cooked only until they are just starting to soften and have turned a vibrant green.
Pastured eggs: We know that good-quality eggs provide too many great nutrients to count, but how do they reduce allergies? Turns out they are one of the few foods that contain vitamin D, a nutrient that has been strongly connected with a healthy immune response. Studies have clearly demonstrated that those with lower vitamin D levels are more likely to suffer from allergies. Oily cold-water fish like salmon and mackerel are also a great source of vitamin D, as are mushrooms.
Eggs also offer vitamin E and vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), which support a healthy immune system and balanced inflammatory response.
Try enjoying eggs in a great big scramble full of all of the nutritious vegetables in this list!
Nuts: Experts recommend nuts like walnuts and pecans, which are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E. These nutrients help tame the inflammation that make the nose and throat feel scratchy and stuffy during an allergic reaction.
Nuts make a great, easy, on-the-go snack. Alternatively, they can be sprinkled on top of salads to add flavor and texture.
Onions: This humble vegetable is a superhero in the kitchen. In fact, the whole allium family is great for fighting allergies — we already discussed garlic, and leeks belong on this list, too. That’s because all of these vegetables contain quercetin, a compound that behaves similarly to antihistamine medications.
Be sure to mix onions or leeks into any stir-fries or soups you cook up.
Healthy oils and fats: We are always recommending good, natural fats, and it’s no different with allergies. An allergic reaction is closely tied to inflammation, and fats have a soothing and healing effect which calms the system. Asthma sufferers in particular are said to benefit from increased consumption of omega-3 fats.
Our favorite choices include extra-virgin olive oil, coconut oil, red palm fruit oil, hempseed oil, flaxseed oil, avocado oil and walnut oil. These should all be cold-pressed, minimally processed and organic whenever possible.
Cultured and fermented foods: Did you know that at least 70 percent of your immune system is located in the gut? That’s why consuming beneficial bacteria can play a big part in strengthening the immune system so allergic reactions are minimized or eliminated.
Try making your own sauerkraut, kombucha or kefir, or buy high-quality unpasteurized products from the health-food store.
Let’s see if we can really bring down those allergies in the coming season! Get started today with healthy, delicious recipes.

Job Posting - Administrative Assistant

Job Posting - Auditor/Benchmark Analyst



 
J O B   P O S T I N G


Position:   Auditor/Benchmark Analyst                                  Recommended Salary:  $54,000-$60,000
                                                                                              
Reports To:  Director of Contract                                               Business Unit:  Finance 

Department: Contracts                                                                 Posted:  Oct. 26, 2015  Closing:  Nov. 16, 2015             


This position is responsible for reviewing and evaluating the grantee’s system of internal accounting controls and accounting system relative to the administration of grant funds. Responsibilities include making recommendations for the corrective actions and/or improvement of internal controls, the accounting system and application of grant and contract funds. This position is also responsible for preparing statistical and narrative reports, analyzing and interpreting client data as it relates to performance goals. Perform analytical work involving the evaluation of budgets to ensure funding is available to support the needs of the program and that expenditures are consistent and in compliance with policies of the Department of Human Services (DHS), the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA) and Philadelphia Works. Ensure all contract requirements are adhered to and quality standards are met particularly contractor employment performance benchmarks. Review monthly contractor invoices for payment.  


In this position you will be responsible for the following duties:

Review vendor’s accounting for compliance with GAAP and relevant OMB Circulars and contract covenants.  Audit documents in support of the grant accounting. Review pertinent documents necessary to determine if an audit trail exists for all records and transactions. Prepare working papers that record and summarize findings from each subcontractor audit: include scope of audit, financial conditions found and application of funds. Discuss and explain deficiencies to appropriate grantee management and Philadelphia Works. Prepare detailed report of audit findings and make recommendations for corrections of unsatisfactory areas and improvement in operations. Work independently at vendor locations. Evaluate contractor expenditure and accruals and make recommendations for adjustments.
Analyze, review and make recommendations on budget proposals submitted by subcontractors. Perform statistical analysis of spending patterns among grants, programs and/or contractors. Prepare monthly and quarterly (as needed) reporting packages and related budget data for internal and external customers. Prepare detailed ad hoc reports for management and external agencies by integrating data from operation and financial systems. Prepare, review and monitor budgets and contracts for accuracy and adherence to Federal and State regulations, Philadelphia Works policies and procedures. Research, analyze, and resolve contracting/invoicing issues in coordination with subcontractors and internal departments such as the grant issuing department, Finance, and Business Engagement.  Monitor training programs, including but not limited to contractual performance, invoicing issues, contractual compliance, program activities, and financial management.  Resolve or guide resolution of any issues or concerns regarding monitoring issues.  Review subcontractor invoices for satisfactory payment approval and accuracy.  Code invoices according to contract and participant eligibility to allow for tracking within Philadelphia Works financial system.  Review programmatic and/or financial support documentation for completeness/accuracy/ proper contract / department / grant / cost category and participant eligibility etc.  
Review subcontractor performance documentation as needed to verify payment. Track participant status via participant rosters.  Notify other Philadelphia Works departments, as required, for
follow-up. Prepare monthly status/activity reports, as well as provide statistical/fiscal data as required. Provide technical assistance to vendors regarding all applicable regulations.

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration or other related field with a minimum of 2-3 years of accounting experience and at least 2 years’ experience in external auditing of general ledger systems (internal auditing may be acceptable).

Or, any combination of education and experience determined to be acceptable by the Human Resources Department.

·         Proficient with Microsoft based products and other computerized accounting systems.
·         Expert skills in Excel.
·         Working knowledge of allowable cost allocation methods.
·         Excellent communication, organizational and interpersonal skills.
·         Familiarity with non-profit organizations and grant accounting.
·         Working knowledge of OMB Circulars a-133 and A-122.
·         Ability to perform complex and detailed analysis of financial data.
·         Ability to meet deadlines.
·         Must have valid driver’s license and ability to travel throughout the city and surrounding area.
·         Ability to interact effectively with various levels of staff, management, government officials, and the public.


Interested applicants should apply online at
www.philaworks.org  and click on
 “About Us” and then “Careers at Philadelphia Works”.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Program
Alternate Formats, Auxiliary Aides and Services are available upon request

Job Posting - Work Readiness Specialist/Instructor

Bucks County CareerLink is looking to fill a Work Readiness Specialist /Instructor position.  See below and/or attached for additional information.


Health Tips That Will Change Your Finances for the Better

We’ve all heard — or said — that eating and living healthily is expensive. While this is true to some extent, since many processed foods are cheaper than fruits and vegetables per serving, there is another side to the healthy living story.
When looking to save money in any area of life, sometimes it helps to stop looking at the cost of an item, and instead look at how you can rework the situation to save money on a larger scale. Let’s take a look at just what that means…
One of the most important things you can do is to take advantage of the simplicity behind healthy eating. It doesn’t have to be hard, or expensive, to fill your plate with nutritious, affordable foods. There are plenty of ways to save money when you’re deciding what you’ll have for dinner each night or what you’ll eat first thing in the morning. A healthy lifestyle is best achieved when you embrace simple living in all areas of your life. Here are five ways to enjoy an affordable healthy lifestyle:
Eat mostly (or all) plant-based, whole foods
Starting in the kitchen, revamp your fridge and pantry and take out all the processed stuff. These foods might be cheap, but those empty calories may cost you more in health expenses in the future. Basically, you’re wasting your money on chemicals, sugar, and refined grains, and not providing your body with the nutrition it needs.
Make smart purchases: whole foods fill you up quicker because they deliver the maximum nutrition to your cells quickly and efficiently. This leaves you satiated and gives you the energy to tackle more throughout the day. A diet rich in whole foods also helps to prevent major illnesses, like heart disease and diabetes.
While unprocessed, organic, grass-fed meats do offer a healthy source of protein and many health benefits, they can be expensive. If you eat meat and you’re on a budget, try only eating meat at certain meals, or on certain days of the week — not at every meal. 
Also, buying large cuts (such as a roast or a whole chicken) is more economical than buying smaller portions, since a roast can be eaten as leftovers, and chicken bones can be made into a delicious homemade stock. 
For the majority of your meals, emphasize whole, plant-based foods. Here are some of the best options:
  • Kale
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Spinach
  • Collards
  • Avocado
  • Celery
  • Cucumbers
  • Zucchini
  • Peppers
  • Tomatoes
  • Berries
  • Pineapple
  • Lentils
  • Split peas
  • Chickpeas
  • Quinoa
  • Flax
  • Chia
  • Coconut
  • Hemp
  • Amaranth
  • Mushrooms
  • Herbs
  • Black beans
  • Kidney beans
  • Black-eyed peas
  • Winter squash
  • Tahini
  • Almonds/almond butter
  • Cashews/cashew butter
You get the gist? You don’t need pricey superfoods to eat a healthy diet, though they are wonderful additions if you can afford them. You can eat healthy and delicious meals without them. Take advantage of nature’s cheapest superfoods, such as these five superfoods you can afford.
Shop locally and seasonally 
Save money on all these healthy foods by shopping at your local farmers’ market, produce stands, and nearby farms. Visit the supermarket the day a sale starts, and stock up on all their organic and seasonal produce to get the best of the bunch. One smart tip is to buy more when a food is in season, and then freeze what you cannot immediately eat.
Not only are you supporting local farmers and the organic movement when you do this, but you’re also maximizing your dollars for ultimate nutrition. You might also want to look up a co-op online to save even more — or start your own!
Exercise each day
You might be wondering how this can save you money, but take a look at your health-care bill. Whether you pay for medical expenses or not, it’s worth thinking about natural ways to prevent major types of disease, like heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer. These major forms of disease, along with obesity, depression and even digestive issues, can all be improved by daily exercise.
Moving the body works the organs and improves blood pressure, blood sugar, and circulation. Not to mention, it facilitates the movement of toxins out of the body, which is important for overall health. Exercise is very important for brain health, as well. Regular movement stimulates activity in the brain. It challenges you, which is important for hormonal balance and a sense of drive and motivation, and it also boosts the body’s natural endorphins.
Exercise is a preventative and therapeutic activity that we can all do, even without a gym membership, and it doesn’t have to take much time out of the day. It also doesn’t have to be costly.
Take a walk outside for 45 minutes, and don’t check your emails while you do it. Really put the effort into enjoying the time, and allow it to be a special part of your day, just for you. Or, try a yoga class on YouTube — many are free these days, and are often less intimidating than taking a class.
If you’re more outgoing, start a fitness group of your own with a few friends. You’ll save money and motivate each other. Get creative!
Make your own hygiene products (toothpaste, deodorant) 
This may sound a bit daunting, but it’s much easier than you think! Mixing a little coconut oil, baking soda, and peppermint essential oil is all you need to make your own toothpaste. Homemade deodorant is as easy as mixing a little baking soda with coconut oil to make a paste. And yes, these actually work!
Utilize simple, natural ingredients like these to serve a multitude of functions and save money over time. For instance, coconut oil can also be used as a moisturizer and shaving cream, baking soda can be used for cleaning, and peppermint oil (as well as many other essential oils) can be used for therapeutic purposes in other areas of your life.
Look at the amount of money you spend on hygiene products, then look up recipes or tips online about how to make them at home. Many of these products, such as those mentioned above, are actually really simple, effective, and also more sustainable.
Cook at home
Amerikaanse dollar Americk dolar AmerikanskFinally, cooking at home is one of the best ways you can save money. A meal at a restaurant can cost at the very least 15 to 20 dollars. You can prepare many dishes at home for one dollar or less per serving. A couple of examples? A lentil soup with tomatoes, sweet potato, and kale; or a stew with root vegetables and greens with rice. You can make a meal that’s filling and hearty, yet skinny on the budget.
Not only will cooking at home save you money, but it will also help you get healthier, reach your weight loss goals, and teach your palate to crave real, healthy food. Again, optimizing whole foods in every meal will give you the most bang for your buck, and many can be combined in a slow-cooker to save time and effort.
Or, cook in bulk and pop meals in the freezer to enjoy all week long!
If you like sweets, use your blender to make a morning greens and berry smoothie, instead of grabbing a pastry or treat from a drive-thru. Make your own coffee instead of paying for one every day. Skip the sugar and use coconut crystals or raw stevia leaves instead. You’ll save money and learn what real healthy living is all about.
We don’t often realize how easy it is to live healthfully and save money at the same time. As you can see though, it’s not as hard as one might imagine, and the benefits are outstanding for all areas of life.
What are some other ways you can think of to save money and enhance your health at the same time?
—The Alternative Daily

Improve Your Sleep and Health by Connecting with Nature

A recent study published in Preventive Medicine (2015) found that men and seniors sleep better when they have access to nature. The study surveyed over 255,000 adults across the United States and found that participants who had access to nature slept badly fewer than seven nights per month. Those who had less access to nature slept poorly up to 29 nights per month.
Living near and visiting parks, beaches, and hiking trails may play a pivotal role in the sleep you get at night. The study found that being in nature improves physical activity levels, which in turn promote sound sleep at night. “This new study shows that exposure to a natural environment may help people get the sleep they need,” said lead author Diana Grigsby-Toussaint, a professor of kinesiology and community health at the University of Illinois.
The research also found that being in nature improved men’s sleep patterns more than women’s. The study states, “In a representative sample of US adults, access to the natural environment attenuated the likelihood of reporting insufficient sleep, particularly among men.” This may be associated with safety concerns many women have with regards to being alone in natural, secluded areas, according to Grigsby-Toussaint. The finding of the study may be helpful to seniors who have trouble sleeping. Understanding the benefits of nature could encourage retirement communities and nursing homes to take another look at their quality of life practices. Senior facilities could begin to incorporate nature trails, gardens and other outdoor areas to their facilities. These areas would offer seniors a natural environment in which to boost their physical activity and in turn get a better night’s sleep. “If there is a way for persons over 65 to spend time in nature, it would improve the quality of their sleep — and their quality of life — if they did so,” Grigsby-Toussaint further added in a university interview.
Sunny autumn parkHaving contact with nature improves sleep and provides a myriad of other health benefits. The relationship between nature and our health has been widely researched around the world. Spending time in nature has been found to improve immunity, depression, anxiety, focus, and physical activity.
Professor Frances Kuo, PhD, conducted a recent study at the University of Illinois’ Landscape and Human Health Laboratory. Kuo discusses the health benefits associated with our contact to nature.
The research, published in Frontiers in Psychology (2015) states, “The range of specific health outcomes tied to nature is startling, including depression and anxiety disorder, diabetes mellitus, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), various infectious diseases, cancer, healing from surgery, obesity, birth outcomes, cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal complaints, migraines, respiratory disease, and others.”
Connecting with nature is not often seen as a pathway for healing and disease prevention, however, research suggests otherwise. Nature is one of our best alternative remedies when it comes to overall mental and physical health. If you reside in a city, getting out of your urban surroundings and spending more time in nature can be good for your health. Whether it be a large city park, a river walk or your favorite hiking trail, connecting with nature may be just what you need.
How do you connect with nature?

Free Coats!!!

THESE ARE BRAND NEW COATS...
YOU MUST BRING THE CHILD(REN) WITH YOU!!





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Monday, October 19, 2015

Job Posting - Director of Human Rescources




 
Director of Human Resources
Montgomery Early Learning Centers (MELC) has a fabulous opportunity for a dynamic Human Resources professional.  We are seeking a Director of Human Resources to oversee the daily responsibilities associated with a fast-paced Human Resources department.  MELC, a multi-site nonprofit organization, provides high quality early childhood education and school age programs across 19 locations throughout Philadelphia and Montgomery counties.  The Director of Human Resources will oversee the following competencies:  Recruitment, Employee Relations, Benefits and Compensation and Safety / Risk Management.                                 **This is a full-time position with competitive salary and benefits. 


Formal Education, Work Experience & Certification:
♦ Bachelor’s Degree (BA/BS), required
♦ Professional in Human Resources certification (PHR or SPHR), preferred
♦ 7-10 years of leadership experience in management, required
♦ Experience at the Director or Assistant Director level, preferred

Key Responsibilities:
Leads the .compliance regarding state and federal regulations including workmans comp, FMLA and ACA
          Manages the development and implementation of agency human resources policies and best practices
          Generates and maintains HR metrics and reports as requested to measure and/or support agency organizational goals and initiatives

          Leads the implementation of the performance management system

          Provides expertise  and support in employee relations, facilitation and coaching

Skills required

          Proven organizational skills with a high attention to detail

          Exceptional time management; proactive with a strong sense of urgency
          Ability to maintain high level standard of confidentiality

          Proven ability to be adaptable and positively contribute in a fast-paced, changing work environment

          Proven ability to take initiative, use consultative skills and build strong, productive relationships
          Exceptional verbal and written communication and presentation skills

Qualified candidates may submit salary requirements, cover letter and résumé to: melc-hr@melc.org.

Montgomery Early Learning Centers mission is: To develop, provide and advocate for high quality early childhood education, school age programs, and related services in support of all children.
Montgomery Early Learning Centers is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, disability, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, citizenship, genetic information or veteran status.