Harriet scored a job she loves with a strong work life balance. She says, “You think you know what you want until you get what you really needed. Everything fell into place. I will forever be grateful for the chance OJ gave me.”
Harriet Davis, a graduate of Opportunity Junction’s Administrative Careers Training (ACT) program, landed a job she loves that offers greater stability, a better work-life balance, and comprehensive benefits. She shares, “I am glad I took the chance on myself and came to Opportunity Junction (OJ). I don’t think I would be where I am today without the personal and computer skills I learned. I will forever be grateful for the chance OJ gave me.”
Harriet spent twenty years as a private caregiver. Although she loved caregiving, the challenges of the position impacted her life as a single mother of four. Her position lacked medical and dental benefits, required three or more hours a day commuting, and expected care for clients on evenings, weekends, or holidays that impacted precious family time. Her passion for her clients kept her motivated, but when her final client passed away, she was ready for something new.
That’s when Harriet enrolled in the ACT program. Having not used a computer for years, she was initially filled with self-doubt about learning so many new skills. However, she excelled and eventually became the teaching assistant helping other students work through their computer doubts. Through her personal development class as part of the wrap-around support services, Harriet learned an important takeaway: “Most of the obstacles we face are created by ourselves. Once we move out of our own way, there is nothing we cannot do.” She was excited to graduate from the program feeling “more confident and more comfortable.”
During Harrier’s internship, OJ Board Member Matt Tillman shared a job lead with Shaun Samuels (Director of Employee Engagement) about a temporary job opening with a friend in his network at Presidio Village Senior Housing. Recognizing a strong fit for Harriet, the OJ team recommended that she apply.
Harriet was immediately hired by Presidio Village as their temporary Receptionist and Activities Director. After just a few months of excelling in the role, she was offered a permanent position as Activities Director. Before the ACT program, Harriet had never used Excel, but now, when someone needs help, they go directly to her! Reflecting on her new role, Harriet says, “I wouldn’t have originally applied for a role like this, but I am so glad I did. You think you know what you want until you get what you really needed. Everything fell into place.”
Harriet’s new opportunity has a regular schedule along with full medical and dental benefits, paid holidays and vacation, and retirement savings options. Her commute is only fifteen minutes, giving her back time in her day for her family. Harriet loves that she still gets to care for people through the planning of creative activities for residents. “My boss is so helpful. My team is so sweet. I couldn’t ask for a better team.” Most of all, she is grateful for her schedule and a strong work life balance to spend time with her family.
