Creating Pathways to Employment
"[Service] is undoubtedly a life-changing experience. I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference.”
As the VISTA member at the Linden Fresh Market, Deborah Muhammad is working to expand the Linden Works program, an initiative with the mission of increasing access to living wage employment. Through her service, she has successfully increased program participation and engagement among job seekers in the Linden community.
In this role, Deborah has found herself particularly grateful for the opportunity to establish connections with like-minded peers. She has also learned important skills in promoting workforce development among employment seekers. Although she has sometimes come up against her own self-doubt, she is happy to say that she rose to the challenge.
“I learned that all things require time and patience,” she says. “I am pleased to share that I will be continuing my service for an additional year!”
This year at the Linden Fresh Market has also impacted Deborah on a personal level.
“It has been truly rewarding to serve the Linden Fresh Market and the Linden community,” she says. “I anticipate that our bond will be long lasting. Serving those in need has given me a deeper appreciation for the things that I tend to take for granted and has been a humbling experience.”
Knowing the need that exists in the community and the significance of her site’s work, Deborah is excited to continue for another year of service.
“It is undoubtedly a life-changing experience,” she says. “I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference.”
Great work, Deborah, and thanks for your service!
