Jubilee Jobs from the 2010s to Today
By Terry Flood
Jubilee Jobs Co-Founder and first Executive Director
Jubilee Jobs today continues to help anyone who needs and wants a job and is able to work in the marketplace. However, the marketplace, the economy, and the resources for applicants have changed profoundly, especially in recent years. We have learned how to wiggle in order to flow with the changes
The Great Recession brought thousands of applicants to our doors. To meet this desperate need, we opened a second office in Anacostia and hired additional staff. We called on caring people to volunteer with resumes, online applications, and preparatory workshops for applicants. We found ways to adapt to the increasingly computerized marketplace system while continuing to provide compassionate, professional help for every applicant.
In 2016, as the recession eased, we began a special emphasis on young adult applicants. We call them Emerging Leaders, knowing these young people will be the next leaders of our city, our businesses, and even our country. While job placement continues to be first and central, our What’s My Passion workshop challenges each young person to get in touch with their hopes and dreams and how to make their dreams a reality. Prior to the pandemic, internships, scholarships, and group activities provided guidance and support to eager young adults. As we move into the New Year and a more normal world, these opportunities will expand, guiding Emerging Leaders into career paths and economically sustaining employment.
Just before the pandemic began, in February 2020 Jubilee Jobs welcomed a new Executive Director, Christine Gossens. Her work with Jubilee Jobs and her love of the applicants spans many years. It was a smooth transition as Terry Flood moved into the position of Founder. Christine has given extraordinary leadership guiding Jubilee Jobs through the pandemic.
We continue in the mission of Work for Sustenance, Dignity, and Hope with gratitude and hope and move with enthusiasm into the future of Work for Sustenance, Dignity and Hope. We will be celebrating our 40th anniversary in May 2022. We hope to see you there!
Jubilee Jobs Staff in 2010
Jubilee Jobs Staff in 2021