(ALLENTOWN, PA) – The Clean Team Workforce congratulates its Employee of the Month for August, Javon P.

After Javon’s European basketball career ended, he struggled to transition to life as a nine-to-five worker. He worked but wasn’t satisfied with his life. He said, “I was miserable and didn’t know who I was. I was frustrated.” His pay barely covered the rent and once his landlord raised the monthly rate, Javon could not maintain his residence.

Javon decided to come to the Allentown Rescue Mission’s Emergency Shelter for a place to stay at night while he continued to work during the day. While staying in the shelter, he met another man in the same situation, and they agreed to move into an apartment together. Unfortunately, Javon’s roommate lost his job and couldn’t pay his portion of the rent. So, Javon returned to the Mission.

This time, Javon joined the Transformation Program. He particularly enjoyed the life skills and workforce development classes. Javon learned that he struggled with two workplace values, being prompt and ready to work. He realized he had to improve in these areas to be successful.

After graduating from the Transformation Program, Javon began working for the Clean Team Workforce and implementing the workplace values. He has been working hard and learning what type of work suits his personality. He has learned that he enjoys physical work and has landed a job in the housekeeping department of a local college. The position offers full benefits and generous pay. Javon continues to work part-time for the Clean Team Workforce while working full-time at the college.

Javon’s short-term plan is to save as much money as he can so he can afford an apartment in the Lehigh Valley. Then once he becomes established, he would like to start a basketball camp for young people. The Allentown Rescue Mission wishes Javon the best of luck to accomplish his goals.

 

The Allentown Rescue Mission, a 501c3, 123 bed non-profit homeless shelter has been providing shelter for homeless men since 1900. In addition to emergency shelter services (365 days a year), the Allentown Rescue Mission offers a residential life skills program, and transitional employment on the Clean Team Workforce that’s available for hire to the community. The Clean Team Workforce pays the men above PA state minimum wage– helping them save a nest egg to transition back into the community. In a typical year, the Allentown Rescue Mission provides shelter services for over 946 men per year, and serves over 42,000 meals a year to men in need.

To refer someone to the Allentown Rescue Mission for services or to learn ways you can help make a difference please visit www.allentownrescuemission.org

 

Information provided to TVL by:
Stefanie Appel
Community Relations
Allentown Rescue Mission
www.allentownrescuemission.org
 

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