May 20, 2009

Discovery: Job Network assists unemployed with coaching, resources

By Julie Filby

Unemployment in the Denver metro area is the highest it’s been since 1990. At 8.2 percent, reported for March by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, it represents a 70 percent increase in unemployed people since last year, or about 47,000 workers.

This figure is even higher when part-time or discouraged workers—those who would like to work full time, but are working part-time because their hours were cut or they were unable to find full-time jobs—are included.

While it is not uncommon for Catholics to turn to the Church for spiritual and emotional support in times of crisis, such as unemployment, the faithful may not be aware of the practical support that is also available when looking for a job.

The Discovery: Job Network is a nonprofit, interfaith organization that, according to their mission statement, “assists all job seekers and employers in the pursuit of economic success by providing an unlimited resource for professional, technical and emotional support.”

“We help job seekers by coaching them on all aspects of their job search,” said Elizabeth Stelloh, director of Discovery: Job Network. “Our sessions are educational as well as supportive.”

Currently, six parishes in the Denver Archdiocese participate in the network: Nativity of Our Lord in Broomfield, Queen of Peace in Aurora, St. Jude in Lakewood, St. Mary in Littleton, St. Michael the Archangel in Aurora and St. Thomas More in Centennial, where the organization’s office is based.

While meeting times, frequency and topics vary by site, the coaching services offered are consistent: planning a job search, resume and cover letter writing, how to use the Internet and employment agencies for leads, interviewing skills, elevator speeches, financial planning and how to maintain a positive attitude.

In addition to presentations by human resource professionals, networking opportunities and one-on-one coaching; meetings include prayer and often the presenters read Bible passages that speak to the challenges job seekers face.

“We frequently discuss the need to trust God for his help while looking for a job,” Stelloh said. “We encourage people who are struggling to become more involved in their faith community, and to continue that involvement after they find employment.”

She added that it is important that job seekers not hibernate during their search, but stay engaged with friends, family and the community.

Job seekers may also use the services of the network via the Internet at jobdiscoverynetwork.org. Last month, they received nearly 300 hits to their Web site. Later this month, they will launch a new and improved Web site with features such as the ability for job seekers to add profiles, a blog for sharing information and a list of Web sites for potential employers.

Annually, the network serves some 500 individuals. Although Stelloh said she does not always hear from job seekers after they find employment, she is aware that at least 10 people found jobs through the organization in the month of April.

Network meetings and services are free and available to the public. They are primarily funded by sponsorship from participating faith communities, and accept donations as well.

St. Frances Cabrini Parish in Littleton also offers job search assistance to the unemployed, through monthly and weekly networking meetings.

Monthly Job Networking Workshops are conducted by parishioner Bob Heisser, managing partner of The Sequel Group, a national executive search firm, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. the third Thursday of the month. Workshop topics include resume writing, interview skills and time management, according to Karen Crum, director of community life and outreach at the parish.

“Bob will address any other issues the group would like to discuss,” Crum said.

Based on the feedback from the monthly workshops, the parish added weekly meetings from 3:30 to 5 p.m. on Mondays. The weekly Cabrini Job Connection encourages job seekers with their search, helps with networking opportunities and nourishes spirituality through prayer.

“We open each meeting with prayer and reflection,” Crum said. “Our hope is to model a small church community—and emulate the support offered by a smaller group.”
According to Crum the program continues to be refined based on the attendees’ needs and interests. Workshops are free and open to the public.

HELP FOR JOB SEEKERS

Discovery: Job Network
Call: 303-220-3384
E-mail: djn1@stthomasmore.org
Online: visit discoveryjobnetwork.org

Job Networking Workshops
A ministry of St. Frances Cabrini Parish
Call: 303-979-7688
E-mail: kcrum@saintfrancescabrini.org