By Ashley R-M.
This February, we celebrate Black History Month and focus on the theme of “African Americans and Labor” (ASALH.org). This theme helps us learn about the many ways Black people have contributed to different kinds of work throughout history. From skilled jobs to volunteer work, their efforts have shaped communities and changed lives.
Why This Matters to Us at JEVS
As a human services organization, our mission is to create opportunities for individuals to reach their full potential. Many of the challenges we work to address—access to education, employment, essential resources, and mental health support—are deeply connected to the history of labor and economic opportunity in America. By acknowledging and honoring these contributions, we reaffirm our commitment to equity, opportunity, and inclusion for all.
Ways to Engage and Show Support
- Explore local black history month events – Attend programs in the Philadelphia area to celebrate, learn, and engage with the rich history and culture of Black communities.
- Reflect on your impact – Every role at plays a part in creating sustainable paths to independence and economic security for those we serve. By promoting inclusivity in your daily work, you help build a more supportive and equitable environment.
Let’s help each other succeed. Together, we celebrate the contributions of African Americans by making our workplace and community fair and welcoming for all.
I wanted to graduate with my high school diploma before my oldest daughter received hers. I heard about the Penn Foster program through my Case Coordinator at JEVS Human Services’ Work Ready program. Before I was enrolled, I took an assessment test. I was very nervous because I have not sat for testing in years. Once I received the news that I passed the assessment test, I had so many questions. I also was focused on the goals that I had after graduating with my diploma.
Obtaining my high school diploma puts me on a new path. I will have a successful future because I am now a high school graduate. I left high school when I was pregnant with my first child. As much as I wanted to finish, I did not. My education was put on the “back burner” for me because working and providing for my child was my number one priority. As I grew older, I was more determined than ever to get my high school diploma. It brings me joy to know my son will see me walk down the aisle. This milestone will allow my son to witness me do something fantastic and to show him that he can do it as well.
Leaving school was hard for me, but my grandparents were too sick to take care of me, so I had to grow up fast. After becoming a parent, my perspective on life changed, and I wanted something better. I heard about the high school completion option through JEVS Work Ready. When I first heard about the program, I was scared, and did not know if I was going to be able to do it. However, once I took the assessment exam and passed, my confidence grew.
