Workforce Challenge:

After being unemployed for about 6 years, Leslie was referred to the America’s Job Center in Cerritos where she sought resumé and cover letter assistance as well as information on unemployment insurance.  Leslie had worked as a Peer Support Specialist and Warm Line Advocate/Mentor out-of-state in the mental health field and was hoping to find similar work. She felt that her biggest challenge was lack of “circulation with employers” and resumé writing

Workforce Solution: 

Once Leslie was enrolled and working with a Career Development Specialist, she received, support, encouragement, and counseling.  Leslie also attended job search workshops and the 4-day high performance thinking seminar, Steps to Economic and Personal Success (STEPS). She was enrolled in training and earned her vocational diploma from the Pharmacy Technician Program at ABC Adult School. Leslie also completed many computer and medical courses and earned several certificates.  She continued to come to the Job Center to conduct her job search.

Workforce Results:

Leslie contacted the Washington Warm Line – her previous employer – and was referred to Nami Warm Line in Orange County.  A month had passed after Leslie submitted her resumé and cover letter, but once the job opened, she was asked to apply and come in for a job interview.  SELACO provided Leslie with interview clothing so she would be ready. Her responses and her ability to answer the skill questions were applauded. Leslie is now working as a Peer Phone Mentor and will be answering calls on a Hotline for people in mental health and recovery.  She is happy about the salary, enjoys that the position is mostly remote, and likes that there is room for growth as she desires to return to school someday and become a counselor. Leslie advises other job seekers; “Know yourself, don’t be afraid to do the work to become a better employee choice, ask questions, listen to stories about lived experiences, be available and show up.”