As the new year begins, one of our focus has been on fresh starts for individuals who have faced significant life challenges. Over the past two months, this commitment to new beginnings has included supporting participants in their journey toward stable employment.

One recent experience involved assisting a participant in updating and refining his resume to align with current hiring standards. His previous resume, last updated two years ago, lacked key certifications such as Food Handlers and Basset—both essential for securing hospitality jobs. Together, we worked on restructuring his resume to be more software-friendly and tailored to his career goals. Additionally, we discussed best practices for keeping his resume up to date and adapting it for different job opportunities.

Beyond resume preparation, we conducted a mock interview to build confidence and prepare for real-world scenarios. We also reviewed strategic questions he could ask potential employers to demonstrate interest and ensure the job aligns with his goals. With upcoming interviews at Hilton and Aramark, he is well-prepared to take the next step toward a new role.

Helping individuals gain meaningful employment is a powerful step toward long-term stability and success. As we continue into the new year, stories like this remind us of the importance of providing support, guidance, and encouragement to those seeking a fresh start.