Success Stories
"After almost thirty years of continual employment, I suddenly found myself unemployed last January. It was a scary time and I found the prospect of job searching very daunting. I had not had to actually interview for employment since graduating from college. Fortunately, while attending a local networking event, I met one of the founders of Fresh Start of Illinois.
I wish that I had learned earlier in my job search about the assistance and information provided by Fresh Start. Not having the financial means to afford a professional job coach or career counselor, I was so grateful that there was a not-for-profit organization staffed 100% with volunteers willing to share their time and expertise with individuals in my situation. In my one-on-one meeting with them, we discussed several topics including my resume, where my passions truly lie, other areas where my skills might be transferable and how to approach informational interviews. They also supplied me with tools that I could use during my transition, including a Job Search Log, and added me to their newsletter which always contains helpful tips and information. Additionally, I attended several of their free workshops including one covering the recruiting and selection process, and another presentation explaining WIA.
I was fortunate enough to recently find a position that is perfectly suited for my interests and skill set. I am very grateful for the assistance that I received at Fresh Start, including the emotional support during a time of great uncertainty. Thank you to the organization and the individuals that give of themselves to help others."
Anne Nostrand, Green Oaks, IL
"Hello!
Just wanted you all to know that thanks to all of the help I received at Fresh Start I am now EMPLOYED!!
My resume was a disaster (yes, people actually laughed out loud when they saw it) when I walked in the door a few short weeks ago. With the help of several volunteers at Fresh Start I perfected my resume and sent it out to several places. I got a call from one company. I went to one interview that lead to a second interview, and am now employed as the Director-In-Training for A Child's Place Early Learning Center in McHenry.
Thank you all for your help and encouragement!"
Lauren Fleming
"Like many of you in this economy, I was let go of my position at my recent employer back in March (2010). I can relate to what most people go though in such a scary time. I had constant mind-racing concerns about what was going to happen next....I am going to have to sell my condo, my car, move back home? As well as the scary thoughts of trying to get interviews and then trying to perform at my best potential in the interview. Finding work is tough enough, but this was an employers' market.
I did know I would land on my feet and be a better person because of the transition I was going though. But I felt like I had a constant battle with myself to believe what I was saying. I do have very supportive family and friends. They were there for me, but sometimes in a situation like this, you feel like it is just their job to tell you what need to hear.
When I started to interact with Fresh Start, I very quickly started to believe what I had been trying to convince myself. The volunteers/leaders are deeply genuine, intelligent, and extremely helpful in guiding you in all aspects of your transition...on a personal level. They had helped me from interviewing pointers, to personal growth in the emotional aspects of letting go and moving forward. They are a pretty fun group of people too!
Fresh Start gave me the confidence and strength to be the best me. I am now in a better place, even prior to losing my job in the first place. I am working in a retail store doing the design work I love. Thank you Fresh Start of Illinois!"
Maria Schmid, Vernon Hills, Illinois
“I spent several months at Fresh Start of Illinois attending the free workshops and seminars held there, in addition to volunteering when needed. I met many people from the community who were eager to help me network and who provided numerous job leads. The atmosphere was warm and inviting and the staff was very knowledgeable about the current job environment.
My goal all along had been to obtain a job at a college. Recently, I was offered a position at a local university in their finance department. I'm greatly appreciative of the help and support that I received at Fresh Start of Illinois while I was unemployed and believe that my experience there helped to shorten the length of my job search.”
Anonymous, Chicago, Illinois
"Last year I was impacted by the economic downturn in the High Technology workplace. This was the first time in 25+ years I had to look for a job. Resume styles, networking, applying for a job and interviewing changed quite a bit over the years. Most of my career was spent with the same company. I spent close to six months at Fresh Start of Illinois attending the free workshops, counseling and seminars held there. I was also a volunteer there one day per week. I met many people from the community and industry who were eager to help me network and who provided numerous job leads. The staff was very knowledgeable about the current job environment and skill sets required to obtain a job.
The services I took advantage of most were a critique and complete rewrite of my resume, the creation of a handbill for networking with others, and mock interview sessions to better prepare me for formal interviews. Fresh Start of Illinois also assisted me in negotiating the actual job offer I received.
My goal was to obtain a job within the High Technology field. In February I was offered a great position at a local company. I’m very grateful for the help and support that I received at Fresh Start of Illinois when I was unemployed. I believe it helped to shorten the length of my job search and also taught me to pay it forward with others that may need help."
Russ Miller, Vernon Hills, Illinois
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