"Transforming People & Communities from the Inside Out."
published June 30, 2009
Making Employment Connections Work
Growing up in some of Chicago’s toughest neighborhoods, Purnell could easily have gotten involved in gangs. In fact, the young man made a few bad choices a few years ago. “I got sidetracked around my junior year in high school,” he says. In the end, though, Purnell felt drawn to stay in school and turn things around. “I knew that my younger brother and nephews looked up to me and that my art teacher had faith in me,” he says. “People were depending on me.”
Still, after graduating from high school, the young man had a difficult time finding a job. “There are racial and other factors that can make it harder for young men like Purnell to find work,” says Employment Coordinator, Kevin Sellers. Breakthrough Urban Ministries’ Employment Program helps men and women prepare for and get connected to job opportunities. “Purnell wants to work, and he has a goal in mind.”
Purnell dreams of attending art school. He has found much inspiration for his work from experiences in Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. Last year, he even won a partial scholarship to the American Academy of Art. Unfortunately, the award only covered one semester, and Purnell’s family couldn’t help fund the rest of his education.
“He’s talented,” says Kevin, “and we’d like to see him succeed.” Last fall, Purnell got an opportunity to interview with UPS through Breakthrough’s Employment Program. He’s been working there ever since. Although his dreams of art school are on hold for the moment, he is thankful to be earning money.
Breakthrough’s Employment Program is a lifeline for many men and women who are struggling to find employment, and Kevin is pleased with the program’s progress so far. “We just revamped our Employment Readiness Program and have had our first class complete the course,” he says. “The word is getting out that we are serious about helping people overcome barriers to employment.” Read more about the Readiness Program>
In June, program participants will benefit from an “Impact Day” with professionals from Deloitte, who will conduct sessions on topics like resumes and interviewing. Still, Kevin would like to build a stronger network of resources to help enhance the program. “We especially need professionals to assist with mock interviews,” he says. Kevin also expressed the need for mens’ professional clothing. “We need suits for interviews and also polo shirts, black slacks and dress shoes.”
If you are interested in volunteering in the employment program, contact Tony Escobar at tescobar@breakthroughministries.com or 773.346.1705.