Re-Energizing the Job Search
Francis Nelson
I was laid-off from Wright Patterson when my government contract with Wright Patterson ended. I had never searched for a job and did not know where to start. The Rise Above Program gave me the encouragement and direction that I needed.
Fran found employment with a government agency after successfully completing the Rise Above Workshop.
Fran came to Jobs & More in November 2007 in order to attend the “Rise Above” program. (This Program is a partnership between Jobs & More, WorkPlus, CareerPlus (Clark State), Express Personnel and OIC Team.) Fran’s last position ended and she came to the “Rise Above” program seeking assistance in her job search. When approached about attending the "Rise Above" program, Fran first stated that she felt that she could better use skills “out looking for employment”. She was very reluctant about trying the program and told the case manager that she “would not come to the spiritual enrichment sessions of the program because she felt that she, " had her own religion.” Fran, however, did come to the early session and the first class and said, “Oh, it’s not so bad. I’ll try tomorrow.” Not only was she there the next day, she came everyday (early). Fran told us that she enjoyed the instructors and learned a lot, but she “looked forward to the spiritual enrichment time.” She said, “I felt better about myself and the situation I was in (unemployed). The time we spent was wonderful. It helped me to understand a lot more about the things that happen in our life. I can not say enough about it. It was GREAT!"
Kathy Harbaugh
I had no idea how to look for work when I went to Rise Above in the fall of 2007. I have held several professional positions in the community over the years, but for the most part, they came looking for me.
Rise Above teaches so much, but most of all it instills confidence and courage. I had started to doubt that I would ever be able to find a good job at my age, but thanks to Rise Above, I did!
Kathy, was a seasoned , educated woman who had an extensive career history. But Kathy also had personal and health issues that caused her to have a heart attack. While on the road to recovery Kathy decided to enroll in the Rise Above Program and gain some new soft skills. She would be the first to tell you that she had no idea what was ahead. Not only did she gain better soft skills but through the spiritual enrichment sessions, she gained insight into some other areas that helped her get back on track. Upon completing Rise Above, Kathy began her job search and that job search came with some very specific work schedules. Kathy applied and interviewed for some positions that called for her qualifications and landed a position with a specialized health program that not only met her skills and experience, but her specific work schedule too. Kathy has been in her position nearly six months and enjoys the opportunities that she has been afforded at her new workplace.
