After assessing his job history, volunteers worked with Anthony to create a résumé that presented a strengths-based overview of his work experience. They helped him apply for jobs, but also encouraged him to pursue job training programs to acquire more skills and experience. Site Coordinators at LIFT-DC served as personal references for Anthony and worked with him to complete his application for DC Central Kitchen’s culinary training program. He is currently taking a 12-week, full-time intensive course to learn all aspects of working in a kitchen and will also receive connections to restaurants and hotels in the area at the completion of the program. At the advice of LIFT-DC volunteers, Anthony recently enrolled in a job readiness program at the Perry School and he visits the LIFT office frequently to work on job applications.
Anthony says that his work with LIFT-DC volunteers Robert Sanderman and Leah Fricke has helped him immensely and that the respect that volunteers demonstrated toward him has made a lasting impression on him. "The way Robert set up my cover letter and the way he spoke with me [were really special]. He talked to me very professionally, and I kind of learned from that, because for a long time, I wasn’t able to express myself at all, due to my drug use. The way he expressed himself gave me a new lease on life and showed me the right manner to talk to people, the professional manner." Anthony remembers Leah’s support throughout his employment search, saying, "Leah gave me a lot of hope that if I practiced presenting myself and my résumé, that I could be [viewed as a professional], as a better person. She gave me support with email and with applying for jobs over the telephone that I am extremely grateful for."
Anthony is excited to keep learning and keep pushing his job search for better opportunities. He credits LIFT for giving him the self-assurance to put himself out there and to speak confidently about his talents. "Having a lack of education, you need somebody there for you, just to give you that little push. I thought I screwed up my whole life, you see, I’m up in age now. But when I come here, and you [teach me things, show me new ways of doing things], that all gives me a lot of hope. I’m rejuvenated again. I can compete with a 30 year-old because I’m much better and I’ve got the experience. You can give him the job and make me the manager!"
