When Isaac joined the START Program, he described himself as introverted, thoughtful, and someone who often overthinks social situations. He entered the program hoping to build work skills, but what he found was a learning environment that supported his growth far beyond employment preparation.
A Supportive Space to Grow
For Isaac, one of the most meaningful impacts of START was the sense of respect and encouragement he experienced from staff and peers. “Outside of the work skills, the biggest thing the program did for me was provide me with a comfortable environment where I felt genuinely respected. Feeling seen but still pushed when I needed it is an incredible skill. There’s so much power in routine and curating an environment like this that made me want to show up is not easy.” The program’s structure, consistent routine, and supportive classroom environment helped him feel grounded and motivated, even on harder days.
Learning Through Introspection
Isaac valued the program’s focus on understanding oneself as much as understanding job search skills. “More than anything, the START Program offered me valuable perspectives and ways I could think more introspectively. You can’t solve a problem until you’ve identified it, and I truly really value the emphasis that was put on self-exploration in the program.” START gave him the tools to identify personal barriers, explore strengths, and approach challenges in new ways.
Building Practical Confidence for the Workforce
Resume writing and interviewing were areas that felt particularly intimidating for Isaac, but the program helped him push through those barriers.“I came into the program knowing that the resume would be the hardest part for me. I don’t like talking positively about myself, and that’s rough considering it’s pretty much the essence of a resume. Knowing how to construct a resume and how to navigate an interview despite those challenges are definitely the most practical skills I’m leaving the program with.”
By the end of the program, he left with stronger communication skills, job search tools, and greater confidence in how to present his experience.