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We completed Workshop #6, our
final workshop with this years group. We worked on "vision maps"
which are designed to graphically illustrate successive steps in
a process to achieving a goal. Our clients found them useful not
only for seeking employment, but also for transitioning out of
the Salvation Residence Hall which they must do shortly after
becoming employed. You can see in the photos below both John
Goodlad and Reniero Francisco are engaged in conversation about
the nature of these steps and their sequence. JoAnne DeBlis and
Vocational Service Committee members Chuck Iverson and Laura
Dietz were also coaches this week.
 
Later in
the class, we gave each one of the clients a opportunity to
reflect on the past seven weeks and comment on what the
experience has done for him. Interestingly enough, the comments
did not focus on the skills we introduced and worked on in the
workshops. What they talked about was how much better they
feel about themselves because our club cared enough to conduct
these workshops in the first place. It was VERY clear we made 13
men feel special for seven weeks and they like themselves more
because of it.
Following the workshop, we held a small graduation acknowledging
their completion of the workshop series, their commitments to
success and what makes each one of them unique. The graduates
were given a certificate of completion, a plaques recognizing
their commitment, and a new pen for all those applications they
are going to be filling out in the coming weeks. Following the
ceremony club members in attendance had the opportunity to meet
and express their support for what lies ahead for each of these
men. Click here for
pictures.
On
behalf of Laura, Chuck, and Patricia, I want to thank the
club for supporting our Vocational Project for 2008. Our entire
club touched this project in some way which is what makes it so
powerful. There is no doubt we impacted the lives of these men
in a positive way and they are not likely to forget our efforts.
For each one who meets the challenge of their addictions, we
played a part in their success. |
