We want to thank WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA for all the wonderful
interns they have allowed to be part of Harvest Time International.
I was an intern for three months and was asked to stay as a
volunteer coordinator, and I am now a volunteer coordinator
manager. We have several Summer Job Connection program interns who
are now HTI employees. I have worked with several of your career
specialists, especially Berlise Batalla, who is always ready and
willing to answer any questions. She visits HTI on a regular basis
and stays in touch with me and the interns as well. We want to ask
WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA to please keep up the good work, you have
a strong all-around team.
Eduardo De Leon, Harvest Time International, Inc.
Astrid Zelaya, Recruiter
Nickelodeon Suites Resort
Astrid
Zelaya has worked for Nickelodeon Suites Resort since 2006, her
first job in the United States after moving from Honduras in
Central America. For the first two years she worked in
the laundry department, but with a bachelor’s degree in human
resources, Astrid had a plan to move up in the company to utilize
her degree. In 2008 she was promoted to recruiter with the job
to hire all employees for the 777-suite hotel including auditions
for the live shows.
“I learned about WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA as I was
researching how to recruit while saving my company money,” said
Astrid. “We have a tight budget, and I must be very selective
with my recruiting tools.”
After Astrid discovered WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA (WCF), she
signed up for the employer newsletter “Workforce Watch” which
provides tips for human resource representatives. In this
newsletter she learned about WCF’s job fairs, where she has
regularly recruited since.
Astrid also was trained one-on-one by WCF staff on how to
fully utilize the online job bank, which she now uses extensively
to search for qualified candidates and to post positions.
The most challenging part of Astrid’s role is hiring
engineering technicians. “It’s very difficult to find those
with the certifications we need,” she said. “Your online job
bank has a great selection.” In fact, Astrid has hired about
90 percent of Nickelodeon Suites Resort’s engineering technicians
through WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA. She also utilizes the job
bank regularly to recruit for the food and beverage department
which includes other challenging roles to fill.
Employed Worker Training Awards
Gatorland
With a department slogan like “The Cost of Accidents Greatly
Outweighs the Cost of Safety Training” and a working environment
that includes several hundred live alligators, Gatorland Safety
Manager Dale McGough truly understands the value a WORKFORCE
CENTRAL FLORIDA (WCF) Employed Worker Training (EWT) award provides
his organization.
“WCF has provided us the ability to reach out to our staff in
a time that budgets are getting cut and the economy is negative
regarding personal improvements,” Dale says. “In April 2009, we
initiated our grant to teach OSHA classes to our employees who
receive course materials and lectures in blood borne pathogens,
ergonomics, hazcom, violence-in-the-workplace, as well as fire
extinguishers.”
As a result of the EWT award, 50 Gatorland employees received
OSHA training and safety in the park. He notes that the
knowledge his employees gain benefits more than just help Gatorland
staff members and park guests. “They are all part of our local
community and carry the word of safety home to their families and
friends.”
Dale says his experience with the WCF staff has been
exceptional. “They went above and beyond, assisting us with
documentation and preparing for the program. Now, other
departments, such as security and entertainment, are preparing
their scheduled list of educational opportunities for
consideration.”
Known internationally as the "Alligator Capital of the World,"
Gatorland, in south Orlando, provides affordably priced family-fun
with thousands of alligators and crocodiles, a breeding marsh with
boardwalk and observation tower, one-of-a-kind reptilian shows,
aviary, petting zoo, swamp walk, educational programs and much
more.
Mobile Unit
City of Oviedo
Recently selected by RelocateAmerica.com as one of “America's
Top 100 Places to Live for 2009,” the City of Oviedo is committed
to providing current and future residents extraordinary customer
service. The City’s employee training program, delivered in
partnership with WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA (WCF), is providing its
staff the skills required to maintain that distinction.
Having taken advantage of several WCF services including the
Mobile Unit, the Lending Library and an Employed Worker Training
award, the City has provided training opportunities for more than
100 employees. Additionally, in 2009, the City participated as an
employer host during the Summer Job Connection program, which
provided employment opportunities for nine youth at no cost to the
City.
“WCF is a valuable business partner and resource,” explained
City of Oviedo Human Resources Specialist Katrina McCully.
“WCF provides much needed funding resources for training employees
with skills that improve efficiency and quality of service.”
Katrina said one of the most successful WCF services the City
has utilized is the on-site, computer training provided by the
Mobile Unit. “The mobile unit only holds 10 employees at a time so
the class sizes are limited. Employees enjoy the training
because they receive more personal attention in the smaller
classes. To meet employee demand, I had to add additional
dates and times.”
She said the City has been able to continue to offer staff
training despite the economy due to its relationship with WCF.
“Employees are able to continue to learn important skills that
enable them to be better prepared to meet the ever increasing
demands of providing increased customer service and being more
productive with less staffing
resources.”
Formally incorporated as a City in 1925 with a population of
800, the approximately 16 miles known as the City of Oviedo, is now
home to more than 33,000 residents. Once famous for its celery and
citrus crops, this eastern Seminole County city continues to offer
residents new business and recreational opportunities each
year.
Online Job Bank
Modern Woodmen of America
When Pedro Marrero, managing partner for Modern Woodmen
of America, needed to hire new employees, he turned to WORKFORCE
CENTRAL FLORIDA (WCF) and was soon recruiting in person and
online. “Through WCF’s on-site recruiting, Virtual Job Fair
and online job postings, I have had the opportunity to meet a
countless number of potential candidates,” he says. “I hired three
employees this year and I have already seen an increase in revenue
due to their production.”
Pedro says his experience with WCF staff has been outstanding
and he would recommend its services to other local employers. “WCF
has done everything possible above my expectations to meet my
recruiting needs,” he says.
But WCF’s services benefit more than just employers Pedro
says. “WCF provides people looking for a new career with the tools
required to make these goals a reality.”
Modern Woodmen of America is a fraternal benefit society based
in Rock Island, Ill. Modern Woodmen serves more than 750,000
members nationwide, offering life insurance, annuity, investment
and banking products, along with fraternal member benefits for
families and their communities.
In-House Recruitment
Sears Home Improvement Products
A WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA (WCF) client since 2006, Daphne
Binimelis, a human resources representative with Sears Home
Improvement Products says WCF’s no-cost community job fairs serve
as one of her primary hiring sources.
And they are proving to be quite effective. “During a recent
job fair, I received nearly 200 applications,” she
says.
Daphne says the WCF staff is always willing to provide
assistance during the busy events. “Their customer service is
outstanding. They are very polite and professional and are always
asking if they can help. If I run out of applications, someone is
always there to make me extra copies.”
Additionally, Daphne has utilized WCF’s on-site applicant
screening and interviewing services. “WCF gives us easy access
to a qualified pool of applicants and they even provide a room for
us to hold interviews at their local offices.”
She says she’s confident the candidates WCF provides her have
the materials and skills she requires. “With so many people out of
work now, it’s great to know they can go to WORKFORCE CENTRAL
FLORIDA to update their resume and take classes so they are ready
to reenter the workforce.”
Based in Longwood, FL, Sears Home Improvement Products
provides products and services for home improvements and
repairs.
Summer Job Connection
“Our association entered into the Summer Job Connection Program
with high hopes, but some skepticism. However, our experience
has alleviated our concerns. Prior to attending the
recruitment event, we were fully informed and met with a
representative from WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA onsite to
ensure that we were both a good match for each other. Our
questions were answered and our booth was fully prepared, including
a short informational session prior to the start of the event.
Both of our interns selected were knowledgeable about our
association prior to the interview and were prepared (better than
some adults) for the interview, including behavioral
questions. They had good interpersonal skills and positive
attitudes, plus some technology training that is so useful
here. Our interns have arrived on time and they are currently
on target and ahead of schedule on some of their training. We
are hoping that they are garnering skills from us. I know
that we are learning more about developing young employees.
We would definitely consider this program in the future!”
Carol K. Platt, Osceola Realtors
Re-Employment Connection
"We just wanted to share with WORKFORCE
CENTRAL FLORIDA that ‘Elizabeth Mendoza’ has been an
outstanding intern since the commencement of her track with
us. She took on the internship of Administrative Assistant
with force! Over the past three months she secured donations
for our students, reached out to our parents and interacted with
them. She was also able to cross train into our enrollment
department and process our incoming enrollments. Our students
also love speaking with Ms. Liz about school and their future
plans. We are very grateful and thankful for everything that
Ms. Mendoza has brought to our program, and we have extended an
offer of employment for our 2011-2012 School Year. We are excited
about continuing to work together in the coming months."
Ahisha Moyet, Victory Prep Christian Academy
Re-Employment Connection
"This correspondence is to inform you of an excellent success
story involving the WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA Re-employment
Connection Program that TECO has been very fortunate to be a
participant in for the past two years. During this time, six
different WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA Re-employment Connection
interns have worked at our school and two more have just started
this week.
The very first intern, Mr. Roger Franquelo, started in August,
2009. His 12 week internship terminated in early November
2009. Fortunately, TECO was able to add a full time,
benefited office assistant position at that time. Mr.
Franquelo applied for the position and was hired that same
month.
Mr. Franquelo has become a very valued employee at TECO
performing a variety of tasks, most importantly, assisting students
in the registration process, including many WORKFORCE CENTRAL
FLORIDA ITA recipients. In January of 2011, Mr. Franquelo was
honored with the TECO Support Staff Employee of the Year Award.
A student reporter for the Professional and Technical High
School newspaper featured Mr. Franquelo in the winter issue
emphasizing the tremendous assistance Mr. Franquelo lends to all
students at TECO.
In closing, I would like to highly commend the WORKFORCE CENTRAL
FLORIDA Re-employment Connection Program for the tremendous
opportunity it has given both the intern and the worksite. We
have had one person placed full time at our school and one person
secured a part time position with Osceola County School's Extended
Day Care Program. Of course, all of the participants gained
additional valuable work experience while earning a weekly
paycheck. This has been a major help to our staff and our students.
Hopefully, this program will continue to provide additional
opportunities for interns and worksites to connect, leading to
other success stories like our Mr. Roger Franquelo. Thank
you."
Jon Herbster, TECO
Re-Employment Connection
"I wanted to inform you that we are going to hire
all of our Workforce participants (Wendy Reische,
Jaselly Fernandez and Jessica Santiago). They initially started at
our firm as administrative assistants and we have trained them to
start with our firm as paralegals upon completion of the Workforce
Program. Also, Rosemary has been such a joy to work with. Rosemary
exemplifies professionalism and she has been extremely helpful
throughout this process. We look forward to continuing our
partnership with Workforce/Rosemary."
Conti J. Moore, Esq., Hylton Adamson Watson
& More, PLLC Attorneys at Law
Re-Employment Connection
"I consider our participation in the Re-employment Connection
program to be a total success. I have enjoyed bringing the
program interns into our company culture, seeing them integrate
with our employees and make their contributions to our products and
processes. About a third of my current employees were hired
from the intern program and are doing very well in my
company. Our Career Specialist, Berlise Batalla has also
assisted with keeping us informed about additional opportunities
with the Re-employment Connection program. Big thumbs
up!"
Allan Jackson, Southeastern Data
Re-Employment Connection
"Dianne has worked diligently in supporting the Administration
Division at Enterprise Florida. In the first weeks of her
internship, Dianne assisted the Human Resources department within
the division with filing, mailings, conducting reference checks and
working with our electronic archive system. While filing
Dianne took the initiative to make new labels for all HR
files. Our receptionist resigned and Dianne took on the front
desk duties. She updated the front desk manual, which now
enables us to find the answers that our clients request. Not
only has she functioned as our receptionist, she has also assisted
divisions with reserving meeting and hotel rooms as well as meeting
set up.
Our External Affairs division requested Dianne’s
help. She collated items for our Board meeting, prepared event
documents, completed mail merges, set up files and assisted with a
comprehensive document.
Our switchboard opens promptly at 8:00 a.m. Dianne made sure
she was on time and ready to work. Dianne has not missed a day
nor has she been late in the twelve weeks she has interned. We
value Dianne’s contribution and wish her continued
success. Dianne thanks for your support."
Sharon Blake, Enterprise Florida on
Re-Employment Connection Intern Dianne
Thermenos
Re-Employment Connection
"Thank you for all the assistance I received from the
Re-Employment Connection Program. After filling out the
survey requested of me by Ms. Berlise Batalla, I realized I needed
to make additional notes to express the gratitude I have for your
program. When I completed the original job description for an
administrative assistant, I expected to have an employee that could
answer phones and perhaps do some typing. I did not expect to
have a life changing experience. I had no idea that one of
your employees, Ms. Carrie Melissa Winder (Melissa as she prefers
to be called) would become a vital part of The Renaissance Group of
Central Florida, Inc.
Ms. Winder began working for The Renaissance Group of Central
Florida (RGCF) at a time when I felt disorganized due to a lack of
help and time. I had not had a chance to do any significant
filing in weeks. Melissa made light work out of all the
jumbled papers I brought to the office from my home
headquarters. She organized every page as I requested as she
created binders for my files. As she went through the papers,
she occasionally noticed that something had not been completed or
there was a follow-up necessary. She stuck notes on those
pages and at an appropriate time she presented me with a list of
questions and together we completed each item. She is very
organized and supportive.
Melissa’s work performance solidified my feelings toward the
Re-Employment Connection Program. Her administrative support
services far exceeded all of my expectations. After
interviewing several women I chose two workers. Both came to
work for me at the same time; however, after a brief orientation,
Melissa took the initiative and started doing things that needed to
be done. She has showed up for work every day and she is
always on time. The minute she walks through the door she
turns all the computers on then begins organizing her work for the
morning. Melissa is beyond proficient in time management and
utilizes every second of the day toward accomplishing her
assignments. She often prepares documents for my signature
before I ask for them and never acts surprised when she is asked to
complete something she is not accustomed to. She is extremely
flexible as she moves from one task to another smoothly. She has
instilled in me a sense of confidence that anything can be done
with proper management skills in initiation.
She used her office proficiency and her life’s experience to
help direct my office and its workflow in a positive
direction. Melissa is the kind of person that can talk and
work at the same time. She has a very upbeat
personality. She knows how to multi-task while maintaining a
good sense of humor. She has a way of using all of her people
skills to help, not just the customers that walk through the door
but to help me as well. When she noticed that I was getting a
little frustrated with a particular job, she knows how to guide me
away from that task, help me put my mind on something else so that
I could come back to that with a fresh mind. She made us
laugh around the office by finding humor in redundancies and little
things that we often take far too seriously. She encouraged
us to see it for what it was, get the job done and move on to the
next task at hand. As far as I’m concerned, she is nothing less
than a miracle worker.
Melissa asked a lot of questions-I mean a lot of
questions. She really made me think about what I was talking
or writing about. Because of all those questions Melissa was
instrumental in helping me develop a Business Plan, Employee
handbook, Volunteer package, Policies and procedures, Job
descriptions and salaries needed for a Strategic Plan. She
helped me develop many of our programs such as Substance Abuse
Prevention, Housing, and Life Skills.
Melissa took a personal interest in both the organization and
its founder. My goals became her goals. She worked on
things and completed tasks before I could even ask her to do
it. When a new employee or volunteer began working in the
office, Melissa made sure they had the workspace and materials they
needed to work with. She introduced them to the layout and
landscape of the office. She familiarized them with our
office procedures and went out of her way to make them feel at
home.
I strongly recommend the Re-Employment Connection to other
employers because of the work ethics and efforts of Ms. Carrie
Melissa Winder and my appreciation for Ms. Batalla. All of
the employees were very helpful and directed me toward one of the
best work experiences I have had in the state of Florida. I
am truly grateful to the Re-Employment Connection Program."
Glorida Bailey, the Renaissance Group of
Central Florida on Re-Employment Connection intern Carrie
Melissa Winder
Re-Employment Connection
“I just want to thank whomever came up with the concept of
workforce because without it we would not be in business
today. My company has worked with WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA
since July of 2009 and the experience has only gotten better.
I especially appreciate Rosemary Smith who has been our career
specialist from the start. She is just great. We love
her. Thank you Workforce.”
Dave McKnight, Aquallusion Design
Re-Employment Connection
"Under the direction of the Vice President of Communications,
Carla was given the opportunity to perform diverse duties and
responsibilities including:
- Researching and validating subject matter
- Conducting e-mail, phone and face-to-face interviews to develop
information
- Facilitating meetings and information sessions
- Writing news and feature articles, as well as, summaries,
procedures, reports and briefs
- Reviewing and making recommendations for improvement of the
intranet site content
- Identifying and proposing content to populate the intranet
site
- Requesting and editing employee spotlights
- Submitting ideas, such as creating an internal language and
credentials databases
- Creating a Jeopardy Game to correlate with Hispanic Heritage
Month
- Capturing people and events using photography
- Cropping, editing and manipulating photo and image files
Carla, you have truly made a difference. On behalf of
Enterprise Florida, Inc., thank you for all you have done to make
us a better organization. May you continue to grow and
develop."
Sharon Blake, Enterprise Florida on
Re-Employment Connection Intern Carla
Braxton
Re-Employment Connection
“I would like to take this opportunity to share with you our
successes here at INViSiON Industries with our newest WCF
employees. The INViSiON staff is quite pleased with the results
obtained from our newest employees. We were able to establish a new
‘reman’ group, consisting of all WCF people. This new group is
responsible for the diagnosis of defective DVD players used in our
products, repair of these units after the diagnosis has been
determined, and testing of the units after the repairs have been
made to assure quality. The final product is what we’re calling
‘reman,’ short for remanufactured. These products allow us to
better match the market demands from customers that desire a lower
cost unit, while we maintain a high level of quality. The training
process was absorbed well by all WCF employees. The learning curve
- associated with anything new - proved to be short and
painless.
All of the WCF employees show a high work ethic, good attitude and
attention to detail with their given tasks. I feel that the
knowledge these people have obtained will surely help in possible
career paths associated with electronics and entertainment systems
in general.
INViSiON Industries has, and always will be, conscious and aware of
talent, drive and ability that makes a good employee. This program
offers benefits for us as an employer, to be able to screen
applicants for potential future employees, as well as for the
employee, to be able to determine if our company is one that they
would consider for long-term employment. Employees also benefit by
gaining valuable experience working with and understanding high
tech electronics in an ever changing and demanding world of modern
technological devices.”
Brian T. Roll, INViSiON INDUSTRIES on Re-Employment
Connection Interns Leo Camonayan, Sharice Kibble, Leonard
Clement, Dwayne Cofer, Donya Smith, Debbie Bolton.
Re-Employment Connection
"Claudina has made many contributions to Enterprise
Florida. She has assisted with online research in preparation
of presentation materials. She updated client information
databases, prepared documents in support of our Board of Directors
meeting. Claudina was instrumental in revising program
information for the annual Governor’s Business Diversification
Awards program. Other document work has included an emergency
management plan and an economic development handbook. Claudina
also worked on contract administration. She assisted a
director by transcribing minutes of a Shareholders Council
meeting.
Claudina, has a 'can do attitude' and always has a smile on her
face. Claudina, many thanks for your numerous contributions to
Enterprise Florida Inc. It has truly been a pleasure working
with you. May your career continue to grow and flourish.
Sharon Blake, Enterprise Florida on
Re-Employment Connection intern Claudina
Osborne
Re-Employment Connection
“The Washington Park Branch Library is thrilled to have Don
Blackshear as part of our team! Don has been a tremendous help to
our staff and patrons. He is an excellent worker, always showing
interest and dedication in performing his job duties. Don displays
a team player attitude. He is a go-to person, showing genuine
interest in the success of the library. At any given moment, you
can find Don shelving a cart of returned materials, helping a
customer locate a particular item, or helping someone in need of
computer assistance. When assigned new projects or duties, he
accepts them willingly and completes them thoroughly. Don has been
instrumental in allowing the Washington Park Branch Library to
complete several key projects for our staff and patrons.
With a few weeks left in the program, Don continues his
commitment to the library. He is much appreciated by all staff and
has made a positive and lasting impression. His bright personality
and strong work ethics will be valued wherever he continues his
career journey, and we wish him the best in his future
endeavors!
I would like to also add that it has been a pleasure working
with Ms. Rosemary Smith. She has definitely been very
responsive to any requests that we have made. She has
answered any questions that I’ve had regarding Don and his
Workforce employment.
My Workforce Re-Employment Connection experience has
definitely been a positive one and I look forward to working with
Workforce again in the future, if such an occasion arises.”
Patsy Williams, Washington Park Branch, about
Re-Employment Connection intern Don
Blackshear
Re-Employment Connection
“I would like to take the time to comment on the success we
have found with the Re-Employment Connection program. Eneida
Oquendo has been such an asset to our organization. It was not
until we had the opportunity to have an additional employee through
this grant that we realized the gap that was going unfulfilled
within our work environment. It is because of this that at the
conclusion of Eneida's time with the Re-Employment program that we
realized we could not let her go. We decided to hire her as our new
development assistant. This is such a wonderful match and we have
this program to thank for it.”
Kimber Threet of ITNOrlando about
Re-Employment Connection Intern Eneida
Oquendo
Re-Employment Connection
“It is my pleasure that I write this letter of success on
behalf of Michael Clark. Central FL PAL and WORKFORCE CENTRAL
FLORIDA Re-Employment Connection began a partnership on March 15,
2010 with the agreement to provide employment to Michael Clark for
a three-month period. In his role as enrichment coordinator,
Michael has taken an entrepreneurial concept and developed it into
our R.E.A.D.Y. (Rearing Entrepreneurs Assisting Dedicated Youth)
Program. This program will address the problems found in inner
cities and in low-income areas that can be alleviated by business
education, particularly emphasizing the teaching of
entrepreneurship to the economically disadvantaged and at-risk
youth. Similarly, he also has taken the initiative of going into
the community to speak about his Enrichment programs that include
organizing guest speakers for local schools and nonprofits and
recruiting girls ages 5-8 for PAL Girl Scouts Troop beginning in
the fall. Michael exhibits honesty and dependability. He has a
special talent for helping youth and fostering long term positive
relationships with anyone he meets. On a daily basis, Michael sets
goals and work timelines that ensure his work is detailed, accurate
and completed in a timely manner. His job performance reflects a
sense of accountability and ownership. He has been committed to
putting in additional research and time to ensure efficiency and
willing to continue learning. Mr. Clark has certainly proven to be
an asset to our organization and the community in this short time.
Without question, I believe that he will be an asset to Central FL
PAL after his three months serviced in the WORKFORCE CENTRAL
FLORIDA Re-Employment Connection program. We greatly appreciate the
resources and tools that the Re-Employment Connection program has
invested so that participants like Michael can be
successful.”
Taneka J. Mallory, Central Florida Police
Athletic League, Inc. on Re-Employment Connection intern
Michael Clark
Re-Employment Connection
"The WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA intern that has been
provided to Keep Seminole Beautiful has truly enhanced our
organization. She has done every job with a smile; she’s helped
with some new ideas and insights. She’s treated our clients,
members and partner organizations with a professional attitude, a
smile and a can do attitude. I cannot thank your organization
enough, and if ever given another opportunity to participate in one
of your projects, we will jump at the opportunity."
Mike Barr, Keep Seminole Beautiful
Re-Employment Connection
“We have hired ‘Yaritza Marques Tirado’ as a part time Spanish
teacher. She was one of our participants that began as a 'teacher's
aide' in March 2010. Our students worked great with her last year
so much so that we asked her to return for the 2010-2011 school
year.
Another blessing to Agape Ministries International has been
LaVonya Robinson. She began the program in June 2010 as financial
coordinator aide and has been key in helping us track our finances
better and maintain our QuickBooks application. We have extended an
offer for employment and look forward to working with her in the
future.
In addition, we are also using another participant Jill Simms
as a development trainer. She will be contracting with us for staff
development. Jill Simms also brought a lot of human resource
experience, which helped us align our HR department into a more
streamlined department and made us better able to handle a larger
capacity of employees.”
Ahisha Moyet of Agape Ministries
International on Re-Employment Connection Interns Yaritza
Marques Tirado, LaVonya Robinson and Jill Simms
Re-Employment Connection
“I am pleased to announce another success here at INViSiON
Automotive. We were able to retain 66 percent of our last group for
permanent employment! The relationship between WCF and INViSiON has
proven to be beneficial to all parties involved, and this is
another example of how well the program is working. Our ability to
retain these people is a direct result of the Re-Employment
Connection program at work. As an employer, it’s a positive way to
determine if a employee meets the standards of a company, and with
this last round, we have found some great employees that we don’t
want to lose due to the limitations of the program.
The employees have shown a dedication and commitment to us,
and we are happy to welcome them to our family here at INViSiON.
The Re-Employment Connection program has the ultimate goal of
getting unemployed people back into the workforce, and this is a
great example of how well things are working for us and our newest
employees.
I look forward to working with the Re-Employment Connection
team in the future. Rosemary Smith and Shemille Cox have been in
close contact with us, and are always available to help and assist
with any matters that may arise.
The support from these two have created a strong relationship
between us, and we will all surely benefit from this in the
future.”
Brian T. Roll, INViSiON Industries on
Re-Employment Connection Interns Debbie Bolton, Leonard
Clement, Dwayne Cofer, Sharice Kibble
Re-Employment Connection
“With our latest track in full swing, our newest participants
in the WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA program are doing great! Knowing
and expecting the candidates for our positions will have little to
no knowledge of our products, or high tech electronics, our
training sessions have been a complete success story in itself, but
I’m writing this because of the personal successes that our
employees have had. Our latest group showed the eagerness and
willingness to learn in the interview process, and this is what got
them here. Our training to get the group up to speed proved to be
beneficial to us as well as them. The training went smoothly and
quickly – about one week and everybody was working on their own.
The training involved taking our returned or non-working products
(DVD players for automotive headrests), diagnosing the problem,
determining if the product is worthy of repair, making the repair,
and testing the products once the rebuild process has taken place.
… … The participants are able to make their own call on appearance
and operation of the units. If they feel that a player isn’t going
to make it through the quality checks we have in place, they can
then determine which components in the player are useable or what
exactly needs to be repaired. The ultimate responsibility falls on
each employee to make sure our products are the best in the world!
… … The experience and knowledge gained through the WORKFORCE
CENTRAL FLORIDA Re-Employment Connection program has surely given
all involved something to be proud of. The ability to expand and
develop new talents is an asset with anyone currently in the modern
day workforce, and will have a long lasting effect that has
unlimited potential for the future. Our relationship with WORKFORCE
CENTRAL FLORIDA is pleasant and beneficial, and we here at INViSiON
hope it will progress and be long lasting.
PS: Our past WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA participants that we
HIRED from the last session are doing great. We have a past
participant “leading” up the current group and helping out the
crew. The others are doing great also. We definitely have plans to
retain members of our current group when this session ends in early
June.”
Brian T. Roll, INViSiON Industries
Re-Employment Connection
"From day one, WCF Intern Joan Edinboro, came to City of
Maitland willing to work, eager to learn and ready to gain
experience. She continuously displays an eagerness to take on new
duties after she fulfills each task in a timely manner.
Additionally, she shows a positive attitude and appreciation for
the opportunity WCF provided and City of Maitland offered.
It has been a pleasure working with her during this short period of
time, and we wish her much success in her future career
endeavors.”
Vanessa Watts, City of Maitland Personnel
Department on Re-Employment Connection intern Joan
Edinboro
Re-Employment Connection
“Alpheus Isadore and Miguel Socorro have worked with grounds
maintenance doing invasive plant removals at Nina Canal as part of
our D.E.P Grant program. Due to their hard work, we have removed 80
cubic yards of invasive plants at that site and replanted 45 new
30-gallon trees and 75 3-gallon saw palms to complete the grant and
satisfy all requirements. In addition, they also assisted in our
beautification projects at City Hall, Maitland Avenue and Lake Lily
… Along with these projects they have also dramatically increased
our ability to maintain our city parks and complete work we would
not normally complete until February. We deeply appreciate their
skills, hard work and can-do attitudes.”
Mark Barton, City of Maitland Grounds
Maintenance Division on Re-Employment Connection interns
Alpheus Isadore and Miguel Socorro
Re-Employment Connection
“I didn’t know what to expect from the Re-Employment
Connection Program when we signed up. Deborah Lorenzen has been a
pleasant surprise. Her background has allowed her to catch on
quickly. I am able to give her tasks and projects to do without
much supervision.”
Sharon K. Keeran, Greensleeves LLC on
Re-Employment Connection intern Deborah
Lorenzen
Summer Job Connection
“Though seemingly shy and quiet at first, Stephanie soon came
out of her shell. She developed great interpersonal skills,
volunteer management experience and even food service management.
Stephanie can always be counted on to get the job done and has a
positive attitude when given any task. We are extremely thankful to
have her on the team! When looking down the road at employment
opportunities, we would happily hire Stephanie on a permanent
basis. Thank You WCF!”
Assereth Peachee, Give Kids the World on Summer Job Connection
Intern Stephanie Moure
“I would like to share with you my working experience with one
of your Summer Interns, Sasha Josephs. Ms. Josephs is quite
possibly, one of the most professional young women I have met in
many years. She seems to require minimal instruction in order to
complete the tasks given to her. Additionally, Ms. Josephs
consistently demonstrates a willingness to take on new duties and
completes them in a timely manner. … I would not hesitate to
recommend this individual for future employment. I plan to keep her
resume on file, as well, for possible future employment
opportunities.”
Cathleen E. Mark, Central Florida Child
Health Program on Summer Job Connection Intern Sasha
Joseph
Summer Job Connection
“Luis came to work every day driving from Christmas to the
very southern tip of Orange County. This is just one of the
examples of his dedication to his work and his commitment to
excellence. Luis work in our branch was exemplary with his accuracy
and production being very high.”
Julie Ventura, Orange County Library System on Summer Job
Connection Intern Luis Lopez
“The staff at the Urban League witnessed these two young
ladies stand out from the other interns. They constantly asked for
work and always asked if they could lend a helping hand. Both of
these young ladies have grown and matured in the short time we have
had them.”
David Thomas, Metropolitian Urban League on
Summer Job Connection Interns Christina Roades & Tkeya
Branton
Summer Job Connection
“Yumani has proven to be a team player who gets the job
done!”
Sharon Blake, Enterprise Florida on Summer
Job Connection Intern Yumani Davis
Summer Job Connection
“James, on more than one occasion, has saved us during our
gaming program for kids. James is very knowledgeable about gaming;
therefore he was able to teach the staff and kids how to play
Guitar Hero. He also fixed the DDR known as Dance Dance Revolution
before over 30 kids got a little angry at not being able to get
their dance on!”
Patrice Florance-Walker, Orange County
Library System on Summer Job Connection Intern James
Cambridge
Summer Job Connection
“From day one, Reggie was always eager to learn and willing to
work. Reggie not only exceeded our expectations for the variety and
quality of his work, but he raised the bar for future interns. On
behalf of the City of Sanford, I want to Thank WORKFORCE CENTRAL
FLORIDA for the great work you do with young adults in our
community and the opportunity for us to participate. Thank
you!”
Russ Gibson, City of Sanford on Summer Job
Connection Intern Reggie Bellamy
Summer Job Connection
“Dasia’s personal growth within a matter of seven weeks has
been tremendous. Her work ethic, communication skills and comfort
while working in a formal workplace environment are impressive for
a young woman her age.”
Graciela Noriega Jacoby, Orange County
Library System on Summer Job Connection Intern Dasia
Whitfield
Summer Job Connection
“We had the privilege of working with two competent and
positive interns this summer. Without their help, the School
District of Osceola County could not have accomplished what it did
this summer. They both proved to be strong, intelligent,
self-motivated young adults. I say with sincerity, we could not
have served our Principals, teachers and thus our students so
completely without the hard work and dedication of these
interns.”
Melanie Cleveland, Osceola County Schools on
Summer Job Connection Interns Charna &
Angel
Summer Job Connection
“Although we will not be able to hire our summer interns once
the program is over, they have certainly had a valuable impact on
our operations. Michael, who helps in the pantry, has proven
to be dependable and works well with our drivers. Picking up
numerous boxes of food, sometimes messy, can be challenging and
laborious. I have never heard him complain. ZZ is a
wonderful asset to our front office. She will pick up the
slack when needed and responds well when asked to do something out
of her area or comfort zone. This has been a pleasant
experience for our staff and we wish our interns well.”
Kristy Owens, Christian HELP Foundation, Inc.
on Summer Job Connection Interns Zainab Turay and Michael
Rust
Summer Job Connection
“Enterprise Florida, Inc. is a partnership between Florida's
business and government leaders and is the principal economic
development organization for the state of Florida.
Headquartered in Orlando, Enterprise Florida’s mission is to
diversify Florida’s economy and create better-paying jobs for its
citizens by supporting, attracting and helping to create businesses
in innovative, high-growth industries. In pursuit of its
mission, Enterprise Florida works closely with a statewide network
of economic development partners and is funded both by the state of
Florida and by private-sector businesses.
Elgin’s role was to assist the division with general clerical
tasks to support the daily business activities. Elgin was
given complex tasks with directions only being given once. He
was able to successfully complete those tasks and on
time.
During his time with us he was balancing a football schedule.
Elgin was always on time and made the effort to plan. Elgin was
approved to begin his day at 7:30 which meant he had to get a bus
at 6:45 in order to arrive on time to work. He dressed
professionally and addressed our team with respect.
On behalf of Enterprise Florida, we sincerely appreciate
Elgin’s value added contribution. We hope to see Elgin back
next summer.”
Sharon Blake, Enterprise Florida on Summer
Job Connection Intern Elgin Rucker
Summer Job Connection
“We, the staff at The Center for Affordable Housing
Incorporated, would like to personally thank the staff at WORKFORCE
CENTRAL FLORIDA Summer Job Connection for connecting us with our
summer interns, Khadijah Williams and Daryell Earl.
Both young ladies demonstrated professionalism and a sincere
desire to learn and work. They were pleasant, reported to
work on time, and always willing to share their enthusiasm and
knowledge along with their curiosity. Being a nonprofit in
Central Florida, we deal solely with the housing needs of the
Seminole County and surrounding community residents. The
requests we receive are diverse, though provoking and often
challenging. They handled this task in an above average
manner leaving the caller ‘better’ after the contact.
Many end-of-year assignments were accomplished and files
purged while they answered phones, handled requests and assisted in
the everyday working of the agency. They developed
spreadsheets for marketing mailers and updated agency referral
lists for callers.
We sincerely wish both of these young ladies much success in
their coming school years as well as their future plans in
furthering their education and living their dreams. Education
and training are the keys to successful positions in the working
world or as entrepreneurs in their own businesses. We do hope
that their experience and interaction with others this summer
helped them to see varied personalities at the work place, sparked
some interest in working in the social services arena, and allowed
them to improve or develop skills in listening more and talking
less as this attribute helps us all learn more and grow
individually.
The Center, as an agency, recommends that other businesses
take advantage of this opportunity in years to come by reaching up
a hand of help to our youth to have summers that benefit them now
and the community in the future. Each business can offer
encouragement and personal sharing to help build the character of
each participant.
Again, we thank you and we are glad that we were a
part.”
Suzanne Brown and William Newman of the
Center for Affordable Housing, Inc. on Summer Job Connection
Interns Khadijah Williams and Daryell Earl
Summer Job Connection
“The teachers at Winter Park Day Nursery have been fortunate
to have an outstanding group of Workforce interns. Each
intern has shined in his/her own way and for that we will be
forever thankful. One of our shining starts, SamDeeshia, has
worked extremely hard to build a positive relationship not only
with her co-teachers Mrs. Iselin and Ms. Jackson, but also with all
of the Summer Camp Crew Students. SamDeeshia started her
journey with us as being rather shy and timid, but we have had the
opportunity and privilege to watch SamDeeshia grow into a confident
and empowering young lady.
SamDeeshia effectively leads a group of 13 students during
extremely important lessons and extracurricular activities.
She is sure to dazzle our community and the world as she elevates
our future leaders by the way of education. Move out of your
way obstacles and stumbling blocks, SamDeshia is headed to the
top.”
Winter Park Day Nursery about Summer Job Connection Intern
SamDeshia Taylor
Summer Job Connection
“I just wanted to express my thanks to WORKFORCE CENTRAL
FLORIDA. Our Interns this year are wonderful!! the best we've ever
had.
All the Interns are doing a great job, but Devin Alderman is
exceptional!! He is self-motivated, punctual and always very
professional. We have been very fortunate to have him with us this
summer. He helps with everything that we do. After the first couple
of days, he knew what to do without being told. He will be an asset
to any organization that hires him.
All the staff are constantly telling me what a great job he
does.
Thank you so much for our Interns.”
Della Oxendine of the Sumter Youth Center on
Summer Job Connection Intern Deven Alderman
Summer Job Connection
“We have a great crew this summer, but one of the interns
really stands out. Jason Cox is a TREMENDOUS employee.
From day one, he has been highly self motivated and is always
looking for the next thing to do.
He’s an intelligent young man, and learns very quickly.
He has shown leadership skills; the other three tend to look up to
him. Just today, I entered the staff break room at the end of
their lunch break, and overheard him say to the others, “So what
have we got going this afternoon?” … taking an active role in
coordinating the work to be done.
He is polite and respectful to my staff and our patrons as
well. (Although, I don’t need to be called ‘sir’ J
)
I wanted to take a moment and commend him, and make sure that
the WCF folks are aware that he is doing a tremendous job for
us.”
August Calabrese of the Orange County Library
System on Summer Job Connection Intern Jason
Cox
Summer Job Connection
“This summer we had a teacher leave our room for the
summer. Ms. Shenice stepped in and did a great job helping
all of us thru an unexpected transition. She rubbed backs at
naptime, helped with brushing the children’s teeth, served lunch
and was a great help at cleaning up. Ms. Shenice shows a good
understanding of children and their need to be loved and cared
for.
My favorite memory is of Ms. Shenice chasing our two-year-olds
with a squirt bottle and then their chasing her with the squirt
bottle! A good time was had by all.
Winter Park Day Nursery has been blessed to have the
opportunity to work with such a wonderful person from your
organization this summer. This staff and children will
remember Ms. Shenice for a long time. Maybe she’ll come back
and work with us again next summer.”
Stacey Hayes of Winter Park Day Nursery about
Summer Job Connection Intern Shenice
McWhorter
Summer Job Connection
“The Office of Diversity Initiative at the University of
Central Florida is very pleased to have Shantanique (Shay) King as
a part of our staff this summer. Shay is an
extraordinarily qualified student. When given a project,
she proceeds to complete the job in a very timely manner and with
minimal questions. But to her credit, if her
directions are not clear, she will readily ask questions until
she understands the project and the part she will play in the
completion in the project. Shay is definitely an asset to the
department.
We feel very strong about the classes offered through
the ODI promoting diversity and inclusion. That being
said, as part of Shay's summer with ODI, we wanted
to expose her to as many of the ODI training classes as
possible. She has already attended at least three
classes. Diversity and inclusion is what we are
about. So, we want to make sure she takes this away with her
when she leaves us in August. This is our way of touching her
and hopefully as she goes forward with her education
and life she will touch others with our ideas and
ideals.”
Katie Pomp of University of Central Florida
Diversity Initiatives about Summer Job Connection Intern
Shantanique King
Summer Job Connection
“Terrence is a young man with a quiet demeanor, a strong work
ethic and an interesting story.
Before Terrence’s first day at the Southeast Branch Library,
he sent the manager a thank you note expressing his appreciation
for the opportunity to work. On his first day, he arrived
dressed to impress and eager to learn. In hand, he had a
second note expressing his appreciation for the opportunity to
work.
But the reality for Terrence is that this experience is more
than work, it is an opportunity.
Terrence and his family moved to the United States from
Jamaica almost a year ago. His father, however, moved here
seven years ago with a desire to make a better life for their
family. The opportunities presented to Terrence and his
family motivates him to continue his education at a Florida
university and pursue a medical degree so he might realize a career
as a general practitioner.
When asked about his work experience at the Southeast Branch
Library, Terrence initially thought it would be a job – boring and
stressful. However, his experience has been nothing as he
anticipated. He highlights the important lessons he has
learned about how to communicate effectively in a team setting and
with customers. Terrence is also impressed with the Library
System as an organization, its tremendous amount of resources and
he truly embraces the values the Library System prides itself:
Respect, Excellence and Integrity.
Terrence has taken his Workforce experience and turned it into
an opportunity to learn and grow. And that he has in
just a few short weeks.”
Orange County Library System Southeast Branch Library on
Summer Job Connection Intern Terrence Blake
Summer Job Connection
“This summer the 3s class has had the pleasure of working with
Monique Conze. Monique comes to us through WORKFORCE CENTRAL
FLORIDA.
Though young and still in high school, Monique has been able
to jump right in and become a valuable asset to our team.
She’s always on hand, ready and able to help in anyway
needed. She has also quickly bonded with the children in our
class and seems to genuinely enjoy interacting with them. Her
daily efforts reveal her strong work ethic and caring nature.
As Monique begins her senior year and beyond, I expect we will
continue to see great things from her. Thank you WORKFORCE CENTRAL
FLORIDA and thank you Monique Conze for allowing us the opportunity
to share our class with such a lovely, capable young woman.”
Karen Fauley of Winter Park Day Nursery about
Summer Job Connection Intern Monique Conze
Summer Job Connection
“I wanted to let you know Destiny Jones was a wonderful
addition to my day on Wednesday, July 14th 2010. She was a
tremendous help, assisting me with phone calls to work sites and
interns, answering voicemails and delivering paystub envelopes to
the interns. I was impressed with her professionalism and
willingness to take on any task given with ease. She was
confident on the phone speaking to the work sites and will be a
great asset to any company she plans to work for in the
future.”
Maryanne Harkey of WORKFORCE CENTRAL FLORIDA
about Summer Job Connection Intern Destiny
Jones
