In a difficult job market, one young man at Morey House – our group home for teen boys and young men – recently found himself a promising job.
Patrick* is described as a driven young man, but hesitant to tell others about his goals. When he told staff about a job posting he saw on social media, they asked what it was about the job that interested him. “Patrick felt that he needed more of a challenge. He sets goals for himself,” said Dana Szalay, Director of Residential Treatment. “Patrick has applied for and accepted previous employment, but he wanted to work for a company that could lead to a long-term career that included benefits.”
Hkeem Fuller, a C&FS Child Care Therapy Aide, worked with Patrick to prepare for his interview. Not only did Hkeem provide Patrick with positive feedback and helped Patrick recognize his strengths, but he also discussed Patrick’s future with him. What are his plans? What does Patrick want? How can he achieve his goals? These talks took Patrick outside his comfort zone, but also provided him with confidence needed for his interview.
Due to the pandemic, Patrick did not have an in-person interview. His interview was held over the phone, which created a feeling of uncertainty. The practice sessions with Hkeem had helped and Patrick thought his answers showed preparation, but he had doubt because he could not see the interviewer’s facial expressions. Patrick was not sure if he would get the job.
After a week of waiting, Patrick received a job offer! He was ecstatic, telling anyone he came across that he was starting a new job. True to his character, he did not stop there. “Patrick immediately started planning out transportation for his shifts to make sure he’s on-time,” said Dana. “He also looked into future positions that he can work up to. Like I said, he’s a goal-setter!”
Patrick is still in training at his new job, but he says he enjoys each day. He is always learning something new and is happy to share how his day went with staff and his roommates.
*Name changed for confidentiality.