He sought LIFT-Evanston’s help and volunteers worked with him to update his résumé and apply for new jobs. LIFT-Evanston volunteers also worked with Frantz, a native of Haiti, to hone his professional writing skills, and helped him to increase his comfort level with computers. He continued to score interview after interview, but was troubled that none of the interviews were turning into job offers. As a highly qualified medical worker who was getting passed over for younger, less experienced applicants, Frantz suspected the problem lay in reports from his references. Volunteers suggested that he contact employers that had turned him down to ask what would have made him a better candidate for the positions. Employers responded and were able to tell him what elements of his work history were holding him back. Frantz was then able to adjust his performance in his current job, and also better speak to his strengths and weaknesses as a worker in subsequent interviews.
His hard work with LIFT-Evanston soon paid off and Frantz is currently employed as a radiology aid at Des Plaines Medical Center. He says of his work, “I have to transport patients to tests, and perform radiology jobs like ultrasound, CAT scan, and x-ray. I know a lot about radiology, but I’ve never worked in it, just with it, as a scheduler. It’s really interesting—you have to know the functions, and you have to be pretty flexible.” As for future plans, Frantz says, I’m looking to become a radiology technician or respiratory technician, which would require a two or three-year Associate Degree.”
He appreciates the assistance that volunteers were able to provide him, but he says that LIFT-Evanston took the extra steps that other agencies could not to help ensure his success. “[LIFT is] free of charge! That was really helpful to me and a relief when I was unemployed. LIFT often called to remind me of my appointments—that was always a plus—and they just took a real interest in making sure we [as clients] could make it. The volunteers are very receptive. I think LIFT is really interested in helping the person well, as long as they are motivated. I don’t think other volunteer services can really help somebody else without exercising all the tools LIFT uses to get the job. LIFT provides those tools, which is a great service.”
