18 HMR resident youth graduated from an intensive job readiness training program. Preparing the teens for the employment world, this week-long training segues smoothly into summer work opportunities in the Housing Management Resources offices. Suit Up Springfield and Dress For Success attended as well, providing professional clothing specifically sized for the graduates.
Jamie Martinez, a resident youth who lives in the Twiggs Estates II redevelopment, recently started his first job working with HCDI Project Manager Jasper McCoy. He works with McCoy at the Home City office Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. “This is my first job, I’m enjoying it, they are preparing me well,” Martinez said. McCoy is also helping him explore scholarship support to further his education and career.
As Martinez and others embark on their entry into the job world with HCDI and Housing Management Resources, we remain committed to helping our residents reach their full potentil.
Emma Woods, a voulnteer with Dress for Success, is grateful that she has a place to give back in her retirement. She reflected on her time as an HCDI resident. “A lot of support,” she said referring to the programs available when she lived in HCDI housing, “I wouldn’t be here today with a bachelor and two masters [HCDI] inspired me to do better and do more.”