Dream Job in 10 Months
Lloyd had spent months looking for a job after being released from prison in late 2008 when he came to PACE after a referral from a staffing agency. His conviction for conspiracy to commit robbery created many difficulties for Lloyd, especially finding a job, but he was determined to not resort to a life of crime.

Lloyd enrolled in PACE's Employment Program where he excelled. "Lloyd's positive outlook and motivation stood out" explained Lisa Cummings, Employment Developer. "He was determined to reach his goal of becoming a business manager and worked very hard with PACE programs to demonstrate his work quality. Because of this I placed a call to one of our Preferred Employers who was looking for a prep cook."

The General Manager was so impressed with Lloyd, who arrived early for his interview and responded well to the questions, that he offered him the position on the spot. Lloyd began his new job on September 23rd.

Lloyd was so successful that he was reassigned to support the opening of a new location for the company. A few months later Lloyd was promoted to supervisor. As supervisor, Lloyd demonstrated effective leadership and organizational skills, which aided the company's new location to grow in business. Three months later Lloyd achieved his goal when he was promoted to General Manager of the store. Lloyd is now making $40,000.00 and is responsible for sales, marketing and strengthening the company's catering services.

"I never thought that I would have achieved my five year goal in ten months!" states Lloyd "I had spent almost a year being turned down for jobs and with the help of PACE I was able not only to secure a job, but my dream job."

The current employment market is not an easy one for anyone these days and it’s even harder for individuals who have felony convictions. PACE’s Employment Program has had great success this year, with employment placements between 30 and 60 each month, which in part is due to the Employment Program and Preferred Employers Program.

For more information about PACE Employment Program or PACE Preferred Employers Program, please contact Lisa Cummings at 317-612-6800 or lcummings@paceindy.org.