As we approach the first day of spring (though it’s tough to tell at times) our employment team here at The Mustard Seed in Calgary understand that hiring typically picks up with our city’s employers. That is why our team planned and successfully carried out their fourth Employment Preparation Event to date.
By providing fresh haircuts, professional clothing, mock interviews, resume writing, and a Mustard Seed preparation program (Seed Academy), this event helps individuals find work that provides purpose, restores dignity, and financial stability.
“We see a growing number attending and have grown the number of volunteers as well,” said Sydney, Employment Program Supervisor.
“From the first event where we had two hair stylists and two clothing room volunteers, to this last event where we had 17 volunteers helping with everything from haircuts, to interviews, to serving coffee.”
Some of this year’s sponsors included:
- MC College
- Cambrooks College
- Dolce Salon
- David Aplin Group
- Cert Logistics
- Canadian Property Stars
- Calgary Parking Authority
- And all the Calgarians who generously donated clothing or offered haircuts
One client who had her hair cut and picked out some new clothing told us she had just got out of treatment and was looking for some support.
“I’m not from Alberta, but my treatment program suggested I come (to the event), that way I will have the connections I need coming out into the community here.”
Another client said “Excellent! They need more of this. It gives motivation to get back into the workforce and gives us a spark of hope.”
In addition to the wonderful things our guests and clients had to say, representatives from the sponsoring agencies were also excited about the experience.
“I really enjoyed interviewing clients here,” an agent from Property Stars told us. “All the guys that I had a chance to talk to were indeed very skilled, smart, and qualified. It is just those one or two barriers like clothing, resumes, or simple understanding on how to become employed nowadays that is preventing them from getting a job.”
