Ring the Bell – October 2015

Employee Nominee

Ruben Vigil joined the Career Path Services family in November 2014 as a Guest Resource Specialist after working for Employment Security Department for over 25 years. He was one of the first to welcome Career Path Services to WorkSource Columbia Basin in 2003 and helped us transition the youth program from the previous provider.  He was always a welcoming presence to some very new staff members.

Ruben is an integral part of the WorkSource system, and we are happy to claim him as one of our own now. Throughout the past year, Ruben has solidified his role with Career Path Services and embodies the corporate culture fostered throughout our organization; especially FOOD (WIOA Programs staff appreciate the treats he brings to our Thursday morning staff meetings!!) His knowledge of the Greater Columbia resources are critical, as he triages customers to different programs and various community resources as needed. He is eager to make long-term impacts in the lives of our community members who need it most.

Ruben is the epitome of customer service: he greets every guest with a genuine smile and gracious attitude. He coordinates services with ease and ensures each guest leaves WorkSource satisfied with their experience. Through June of 2015, Ruben exceeded three of his performance goals (Guest Comment Cards, Referrals to WIOA Programs, and Unemployment Assistance) by 112%, 122%, and 119% respectively and is off to a great start thus far in the 2015 program year.

Congratulations Ruben, and thanks for all you do to make Career Path Services a success.

Community Partner Nominee

Our community partner Ring the Bell nominee for October 2015 is the Spokane Valley Hobby Lobby store.  Our Individual Employment client, Jennifer, began working at Hobby Lobby in November 2012 as a store associate.  She’s been steadily employed for almost three years now and her role and responsibilities have grown.

Jennifer began working two 2 hours shifts (4 hours per week).  Her job tasks included dusting, cleaning glass, and resetting stock.  Over time, she has moved into the freight area where she now assists with unpacking and sorting new goods for distribution in the store.  She moved from 4 hours per week, to 6, and just recently has been offered 4 additional hours.

Mark, the store manager, and the Hobby Team, have been very supportive of Jennifer from the start.  Co-workers work together, have fun, and get the job done; the ownership and management team are always inclusive, making sure to invite Jennifer to their annual staff events including their Secret Santa Gift Exchange and Christmas Party.

In November of 2013, Hobby Lobby hired a second Individual Employment customer who remains an employee in good standing.

Hobby Lobby maintains that they are committed to “serving (their) employees and their families by establishing a work environment and company policies that build character, strengthen individuals, and nurture families”.  These words are supported by experience; our employed clients and job coaches have benefited in so many ways from our connection to this outstanding employer.