Let’s End the Year Strong!
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
When I reflect on the state of affairs in the world today, it causes me to question the status of the current society. Are things really getting worse or are we just more aware of the global issues affecting people due to more access to the internet?
It’s hard to not look at poverty, homelessness, food insecurity, opioid addictions, and increased mental health needs and feel anything but despair. But I come to bring words of encouragement and hope.
We can’t reflect on only the negative around us in communities without also believing for better. Americans are a resilient people, able to weather many more storms and still move forward in confidence.
We can’t allow the voices to tell the next generations to be full of doubt and hopelessness. There’s enough sadness to go around. Why not focus on the positive energy that’s inherent in people working together to make change?
I’ve lived in Richmond since 1994 and have witnessed exciting growth amid constant political battles and communities at war with each other. Counties fighting for territory with other counties. Richmond city attempting to hold on to decades of “the same”, while seeking new developments in neighborhoods. Change, change, change.
The employment market has evolved since the early ‘90s. As more and more national employers continue to discover the metro Richmond area, the job landscape is as diverse as the residents transferring here from other areas of the country.
This changing job market means you and I can be reinvented, to align with the jobs available. It is a time to change. A time to retool that old resume and craft a new resume that speaks to the uniqueness of you! Now is the time to brush up on your interview skills and prepare your best virtual presentations. Employers are seeking qualified, committed job seekers willing to be flexible. Elevate your voice and share the skills, talents and gifts you have been blessed with!
As 2021 closes, I only wish the best for you and your family. If you’re facing unemployment or underemployed, take advantage of the training opportunities available in the region. A new workforce development platform is Network2work in Richmond (https://www.Network2workrva.com) which connects employers to job seekers and lists the regions training providers to assist you. The nonprofit I direct- JobsRVA is listed as a provider offering job coaching support before you become employed. The resources on the website are vast. Take time to explore all the offerings at Network2work.
This is the time to remain strong! During increasing isolation and pandemic changes, let’s remember the ancestors that have gone before us. We stand on their shoulders and owe them, and future generations continued resiliency and hope in a future. Don’t give up! Continue to stand and believe. The best is yet to come!
Ms. Ajai Blue-Saunders directs a local nonprofit- JobsRVA that engages communities working in the faith and work arena. We support job readiness classes that are held in churches and nonprofits. Classes for Winter/Spring 2022 will be posted on the website in 2022. Ready to volunteer? We have multiple volunteer opportunities available too. Contact her at jobsrvainfo@gmail.com for more information.
