Youth Work Experience Participant Turning Minimum Wage Into Meaningful Work

Flint – Jason Jackson was referred to GST MI Works! September 2020 by his brother who had previously sought out GST Michigan Works! to obtain employment. Jason was currently working part-time at a retail store making minimum wage but wanted a full-time position at a company where he could grow.

After speaking with Career Coach, Angel Lane, Jason realized his resume may have been hindering him in obtaining interviews. Angel worked with him to update his resume and mock interview via Zoom. Jason’s resume was forwarded to Business Services for multiple openings with the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan.

On October 5, 2020, Jason started at The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan for a youth work experience as an Operations Warehouse Worker making $11.00/hr.  Jason called his Career Coach after his first day and said he loved his new job. When the Career Coach followed up with The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan regarding the clients’ performance they stated, “Jason is doing great and his hiring is a big win.”

Jason still stays in contact with Angel to update her on his advancement; most recently Jason completed forklift training and The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan asked him to oversee the meat deliveries. He just started receiving full benefits as well.

“GST Michigan Works! really changed my life for the better. I was able to obtain my first full-time job during a pandemic and I know the work that I am doing with The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan is helping feed so many families; so when I go home at the end of the day I know I have helped make a difference in so many lives.”
– Jason Jackson