Building Trust and Planting Seeds
February 11, 2025
Kelly* is a mom in Bridge of Hope who was feeling a bit stuck in her career. She has carpentry training and an interest in art and interior design but was unsure how to leverage those skills and interests.
An important step in achieving housing stability through Bridge of Hope is that families are able to increase their income. To help parents accomplish their employment goals, we have a partnership with Soyica White to provide them with one-on-one career exploration and coaching. He is currently working with multiple parents in Bridge of Hope and starts by giving them a strengths assessment. Soyica also helps families with resume building, encouragement, and how to determine which jobs might be a good match.
Kelly started going to coaching sessions with Soyica, and he was able to connect her with a professional interior designer/carpenter to get more information about such a career.
Another parent, Andrew*, had been feeling frustrated and overwhelmed with the job search process. He connected with Soyica and, through their work together, received three job offers. Soyica worked with Andrew to discern what the best opportunity would be.
Soyica says his approach is to meet people where they are. “[Bridge of Hope participants] are ready for change, which makes my job easier,” he said.
We are grateful for our partnership with Soyica! He does a great job of building trust with participants and giving tools that are useful for future job searches.
*Names have been changed to protect the Neighboring family’s identity
 |  |
| Rachel Thomas Steadman | Ty Williams |
| Program Director | Church Engagement Director |
| rachelts@bridgeofhopeinc.org | tyronew@bridgeofhopeinc.org |
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