Among the hundreds of negative effects the pandemic caused people across the United States, one of the most distressing was the rapid rise in unemployment and underemployment. People who had been working in the same industries and companies for years suddenly saw their lives upended

The “EM” in Project EM represents: Employment, Empowerment, and Embracing new opportunities. The Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies (NJHSA) created the program two years ago as a direct response to Covid-driven unemployment.

When Natalie’s job turned into a toxic work environment, she left the position after 15 years and turned to JVS Career Services, lacking self-confidence and unsure of her next steps.  

Sergio Camarillo was an exceptional person, not only at JCFS but with everyone he met throughout his life. Thus, it was with much sadness to everyone who knew him when he passed away from Covid-19 last year. The Sergio Camarillo Impact Award was created to honor his memory and legacy.  

When describing how JVS Career Services can help, JVS Career Services Director, Jeff Blumenfeld explains, “Ari came to us confused about his career path. After a number of one-on-one career counseling sessions, he was able to move forward and land a good job.”

JVS Career & Employment’s Contracted Employment Services (CES) is committed to assisting adults with disabilities and other barriers to employment find and maintain jobs. CES pairs qualified candidates with open positions in janitorial and administrative support services. During this past year, these jobs were not just meaningful to the employer and employee, they were essential.

Youth with disabilities, ages 16-24 living in Cook and Lake Counties who meet eligibility requirements can work with a team of JCFS Chicago employment experts to reach their employment goals.

“I knew I would be able to do the things I wanted to accomplish,” Brandon Bures, a JVS Career & Employment client said. This Spring, he shared his story and represented JCFS Chicago at a Source America Grassroots Advocacy Conference with Marlies Gramann, Associate Vice President of Disability Services. The conference provided advocacy and self-advocacy training for non-profit executives and people with disabilities.

“JVS was instrumental in helping me recognize and support my own growth, strengths and confidence as I switched careers,” Carrie said. “All the counselors, workshops and events were of great value. I feel my search would have been a lot tougher without the invaluable support and education provided by JVS.”

In 2012, Samuel was a recent high school graduate with little work experience. Unsure of his next steps, Samuel felt nervous about his future. That’s when his Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) counselor referred Samuel to JVS Career & Employment.