United Way of the Bay Area Blog
Live United
“Policy makers have dropped the ball completely in terms of dealing with this devastating long-term trend of ever-increasing economic insecurity for American families. Long-term solutions that have to do with extensive job creation and a strengthening of the safety net are required.”
– New York Times columnist Bob Herbert
From his New York Times column, “Long term economic pain.”
Oakland resident Jackie B. came to SparkPoint Oakland Center in January after seeing an ABC-7 news segment about SparkPoint. After being unemployed for two years, Jackie hoped SparkPoint could help with her job search.
SparkPoint career coach Lloyd Williams worked with Jackie to refresh her job-search strategies. Lloyd is an employee of the Workforce Collaborative, one of five organizations that work together to deliver services at SparkPoint Oakland Center. Jackie and Lloyd met regularly to talk about Jackie’s goals and her job search. She credits Lloyd with being the “spark” that helped her stay motivated.
“SparkPoint gave me the inspiration I needed to keep going and not give up,” said Jackie. “They look out for you and help you like family. There’s a lot of love here.”
In early May, Jackie secured a full-time position, with benefits, as a customer service representative at the Oakland Marina. She says she loves her new job.
Learn more about SparkPoint.
Fiona Ma, Speaker pro Tempore of the CA State Assembly speaking to the Emerging Leaders
Last night, United Way’s Emerging Leaders held a cocktail reception with special guest Fiona Ma, Speaker pro Tempore of the CA State Assembly. Hosted by Winston and Strawn LLP, The Speaker Pro Tem shared her personal story, and her transition from small business owner to politician. She reminded United Way’s Emerging Leaders that change is possible and that they can lead it. She said, “If I can do it, you can do it.”
Fiona Ma was big hit with crowd and stayed long after her talk was finished and chatted with the assembled young leaders. She even reminded guests that her seat on the California State Assembly, representing the 12th District, is opening up in soon and that they could fill her shoes.
This is the latest in what has been a string of fun, and interesting Emerging Leaders events. To find out more about Emerging Leaders contact Shelley Hardeman, shardeman@uwba.org.
Follow United Way of the Bay Area
Subscribe in a reader or in an email subscription below. |  |  |
 |  |
