Rossella Alla, Author at JEVS Human Services

Justina Green on Building Confidence and Career Readiness

Posted on April 28, 2026 by Rossella Alla

A strong interview can change everything. This National Volunteer Month, we are proud to recognize Justina Green, whose volunteer work helps JEVS participants build the confidence and skills to succeed.

Justina began volunteering with JEVS after seeing firsthand the power of community-based work. Wanting to make a deeper impact, she reached out in 2021 to explore how she could use her professional skills to support participants and she quickly became a valued part of our volunteer community. Using her background in Human Resources, Justina leads mock interview sessions for youth across multiple programs, including Independence Network. These sessions give participants a safe and supportive space to practice, learn, and grow.

“The mock interviews are so helpful because you don’t know what you don’t know,” Justina shared. “Interviewing today is not what it was five years ago, it keeps changing.” Through her guidance, participants gain confidence, improve their communication skills, and better understand what employers are looking for.

Justina’s impact goes beyond individual sessions. She has helped expand opportunities for participants by connecting additional volunteers and even bringing in groups to support mock interview events. Her enthusiasm and commitment help create an environment where young people feel encouraged and prepared to take their next steps.

For Justina, volunteering is about more than giving time; it’s about growth. “We grow as we give,” she says. “Whether you’re a student or a professional, volunteering makes you better.” Her holistic approach reflects a belief that supporting others ultimately strengthens the entire community. She also encourages others to get involved in any way they can. Whether it is offering professional skills, mentoring, or simply showing up, every contribution matters. Even small efforts, like recognizing volunteers or sharing their work, can inspire others to take part.

Justina’s energy, compassion, and dedication make a lasting impact on our participants. We are grateful for the time she invests in preparing our youth for success and proud to celebrate her as part of the JEVS community.

Interested in making an impact? Join our community of volunteers and help JEVS participants build the skills and confidence they need to succeed. Learn more about volunteer opportunities by contacting us: https://www.jevshumanservices.org/contact/

Helping Others find the Right Path Forward: Ben Marquez on Being a Volunteer

Posted on April 28, 2026 by Rossella Alla

This National Volunteer Month, we are proud to recognize Ben Marquez, Regional Vice President at The Tustin Group, a leading HVAC company. As a dedicated JEVS volunteer, he uses his lived experience and professional expertise to inspire and guide participants at OTC.

Ben first connected with JEVS about five years ago and quickly saw the value of the program. “OTC is a resource,” he shared. “It helps people overcome barriers and find direction.” Since then, he has become actively involved in mock interviews and mentoring, helping participants prepare for real-world opportunities.

What makes Ben’s approach especially impactful is his ability to relate. Growing up in Brooklyn in the 1970s, he faced significant challenges and describes himself as a “troubled young man.” After earning his GED and pursuing a trade, he gained firsthand insight into how difficult it can be to find the right path.

“I’m someone they can see as an example,” he said. “I’ve been there; I was that person.” His story resonates deeply with participants, showing them that a different future is possible with the right choices and support.

During mock interviews, Ben focuses on helping participants build confidence while also preparing them for professional environments. He emphasizes the importance of presentation and communication, including the ability to “code switch” when needed.

“You’re not turning away from who you are,” Ben explains. “But if you want your foot in the door, you have to know how to present yourself.” His guidance helps participants understand how to navigate professional spaces while staying true to themselves.

Ben also brings a unique perspective from working in the trades. He often shares how choosing trade school was one of the best decisions he ever made, providing him with stability, growth, and a better quality of life. Today, he continues to give back by helping others see similar opportunities.

His involvement has extended beyond volunteering. Ben has even hired participants from OTC, reinforcing his commitment to creating real pathways to employment. He believes strongly in developing talent early and working with programs like OTC to help individuals grow into future professionals.

Through his honesty, mentorship, and dedication, Ben creates meaningful connections with participants and leaves a lasting impression. His work reflects the heart of JEVS’ mission, supporting individuals, building pathways, and strengthening communities.

National Volunteer Month: Celebrating the Impact of JEVS Volunteers

Posted on April 27, 2026April 29, 2026 by Rossella Alla

This National Volunteer Month, we are proud to recognize the volunteers who help prepare JEVS participants for success. Through mock interviews across programs like Orleans Technical College and Independence Network, volunteers like Justina Green, Mike Lacouture, and Ben Marquez provide real-world practice, build confidence, and help participants develop the skills needed to enter today’s workforce.

Helping Participants Build Confidence

Meet Justina Green, who uses her HR expertise to guide participants through today’s evolving interview process. She helps them build confidence and reminds us that “you don’t know what you don’t know,” creating space for growth and learning.

Helping Students Find their Voices

Meet Mike Lacouture, who brings energy and connection to every session. He encourages participants to let their personality shine, emphasizing that interviews are not just about answering questions, but about finding the right fit.

Helping Others Find the Right Path Forward

Meet Ben Marquez, who shares his lived experience to inspire others. By connecting with participants on a personal level, he shows them what’s possible and reinforces the importance of presenting themselves confidently while staying true to who they are.

Each brings a unique perspective like professional expertise, personal experience, and a shared commitment to giving back. Whether it is guiding participants through modern interview expectations, helping them find their voice, or connecting through lived experience, their impact is immediate and lasting.

Beyond skill-building, they create space for growth, encouragement, and connection. Many participants experience their first “aha moment” during these sessions, realizing their potential and feeling prepared to take the next step. Volunteers often say they gain just as much as they give. By showing up and investing in others, they help strengthen not only individual futures, but the entire community.

We are grateful for Justina, Mike, Ben and all JEVS volunteers who continue to make a difference every day.

Interested in making an impact? Join our community of volunteers and help JEVS participants build the skills and confidence they need to succeed. Contact us to learn more about volunteer opportunities.

JEVS Influencers Bring Community and Compassion Together

Posted on April 27, 2026April 27, 2026 by Rossella Alla

On April 8, JEVS was filled with laughter, conversation, and an incredible spirit of generosity as our amazing JEVS Influencers came together for a special evening of connection and giving back.

One of the highlights of the evening was assembling toiletry kits for JEVS participants. Each kit was thoughtfully packed with essential personal care items to provide comfort, dignity, and support to individuals on their journey toward stability and success. Small acts of kindness like these can have a powerful ripple effect, offering encouragement and hope when it’s needed most.

Our JEVS Influencers are more than supporters; they are passionate advocates who help share our mission, strengthen our community, and inspire others to get involved. Their enthusiasm and dedication were on full display as they worked side by side to prepare these kits, knowing each one would make a meaningful difference.

We are deeply grateful to every JEVS Influencer who joined us and contributed their time, energy, and generosity. Your commitment continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of our participants and strengthens the sense of community that makes JEVS so special.

Inspired by this impact? Join us in making a difference. Whether you volunteer your time, become a JEVS Influencer, or support our programs through a donation, your involvement helps change lives. Together, we can continue building a stronger, more supportive community.

Mike Lacouture on Volunteering and Helping Participants Find Their Voices

Posted on April 24, 2026April 28, 2026 by Rossella Alla

This National Volunteer Month, we are proud to highlight Mike Lacouture, a dedicated JEVS volunteer whose commitment to supporting participants through mock interviews has made a lasting impact. Mike first connected with JEVS through a community partnership event and quickly found himself drawn to the organization’s mission. What started as a single opportunity soon turned into an ongoing commitment. Through mock interviews at programs like Orleans Technical College, Mike has become a familiar and trusted presence for participants preparing to enter the workforce.

“Mock interviews help participants build skills that can change the trajectory of their lives,” Mike shared. “As a volunteer, you get to see that ‘aha moment’ when it clicks for someone and that’s what keeps me coming back.”

For Mike, volunteering is not just about giving back; it is also deeply rewarding on a personal level. “It’s as much for me as it is for the people I’m helping,” he said. “You feel good about it.” His own experiences have shaped how he connects with participants, emphasizing growth, confidence, and the importance of communication.

During his sessions, Mike encourages participants to reflect on their experiences and translate them into meaningful skills. He helps them see how even unrelated jobs can build a foundation for future opportunities, while building confidence and authenticity.

He also highlights the role of connections in interviews. “Half the interview is asking, ‘Do I want to work with this person?’” Mike explained. “Once you feel calm, your personality comes through, and that’s what makes the difference.” He reminds participants that interviews are a two-way street.

Mike also emphasizes that the sense of community makes volunteering at JEVS even more impactful. “It doesn’t feel transactional,” he said. The relationships he has built with staff and fellow volunteers have made the experience even more meaningful.

Whether participating in mock interviews or attending JEVS events, Mike continues to show up with enthusiasm and purpose. “You don’t always see the impact right away,” he said, “but you know you’re helping shape someone’s future.”

We are grateful for Mike’s dedication and the energy he brings to our programs. His story reflects what JEVS is all about, building community to help the community.

Celebrating Women’s History Month

Posted on March 24, 2026April 27, 2026 by Rossella Alla

Each March, we celebrate Women’s History Month, a time to recognize the achievements, resilience, and contributions of women throughout history and in our communities today. The 2026 theme, “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future” highlights the importance of work uplifts and empowers others, through support and opportunity.

This theme resonates with the mission of JEVS Human Services (JEVS). Our work centers on empowering individuals to achieve independence and success through education, workforce development, and vital services. Women—past and present—play an important role in shaping that mission, driving change not only within our organization but across the communities we serve.

This month, we’re proud to spotlight three remarkable women whose stories reflect the diversity, strength, and impact of JEVS staff. Each brings a unique journey, perspective, and contribution that embodies the spirit of Women’s History Month.

Providing Compassionate Community Support Services

Advocacy is important to Falone Gantt, Director of Outreach & Recruitment. Through her work in JEVS’ Home Care and Residential Services, she has connected individuals and families to essential services, helping them navigate systems, access resources, and build pathways toward stability, independence, and opportunity. Read more about Falone’s role in recruiting for home care and residential services.

Helping Adults 55 and Older Secure their Next Job

Jacqueline Savoy has built a career in Employment and Workforce Services, guiding individuals through career transitions. As a Program Coordinator and Senior Career Coach, she supports adults 55 and older, emphasizing the importance of confidence, strategy, and personalized guidance in helping job seekers reenter the workforce and secure meaningful employment. Read more about Jacqueline’s efforts to support career coaching for mature jobseekers.

Building Youth Workforce Systems that Break Barriers

Miya McAfee’s experience in youth workforce development highlights how opportunity and support can open doors—not just for individuals, but for entire communities. As the Director of Youth and Young Adults for Career Connected Learning – Philadelphia (C2L-PHL), she is helping to create systems that expand access to paid, work-based learning experiences. These experiences play a foundational role in equipping young people with the tools, confidence, and support they need to shape their futures. Read more about Miya’s work in youth workforce development.

Join JEVS in Shaping a Sustainable Future

Women’s History Month is both a celebration and a call to action. By honoring the stories of women in the JEVS community, we recognize not only how far we’ve come, but also the work that remains.

At JEVS, we remain committed to creating pathways to opportunity—ensuring that women of all backgrounds have the tools, support, and confidence to thrive. As we reflect on this month’s theme, we invite you to join us in uplifting these voices, sharing their stories, and continuing to invest with us through our programs, working toward a more equitable future.

Together, we celebrate history—and help shape what comes next.

Celebrating New Clinical Medical Assistant Graduates!

Posted on March 23, 2026 by Rossella Alla

It was an exciting day as 19 students celebrated their graduation from the Clinical Medical Assistant program. Friends and family joined the graduates as they demonstrated key skills they learned during the program and received their Certificates of Completion.

Most of the students in this class also took the exam on March 10 to earn their Certified Clinical Medical Assistant credential through the National Healthcareer Association. The class performed exceptionally well and achieved a 94 percent first time pass rate. Instructor Regina Travis, known to students as Nurse Travis, helped prepare students for the certification exam and careers in healthcare. The majority of the students in this cohort received funding through PA CareerLink, which helps individuals access training programs that lead in demand careers.

Some graduates are currently preparing for a two-week externship through the program’s partnership with Penn Medicine. Others will begin applying for direct hire positions with healthcare employers in the region with support from the EduConnect team and local PA CareerLink offices.

The Clinical Medical Assistant program through JEVS EduConnect prepares students for entry level roles in healthcare. Students learn essential skills such as medical terminology, taking vital signs, infection control, EKG testing, patient care, and medical office procedures. The program combines classroom learning with hands-on training, so graduates are ready to work in doctors’ offices, clinics, and hospitals.

To learn more about our Clinical Medical Assistant program visit us at here.

From New Beginnings to New Opportunities: Orest’s Journey to Employment

Posted on March 20, 2026 by Rossella Alla

By Mariya K., Job Developer at JEVS Human Services February, 2026

Every new beginning starts with courage. Leaving his home country and starting over in a new place was not easy, but Orest S. arrived in the United States with hope, determination, and a clear goal- to build a stable and successful life. When he first arrived at JEVS Center for New Americans as a walk-in client, he was determined to find employment. In Ukraine, he had worked as a mechanic, and although he did not yet speak English well, his motivation and professional skills were very strong.

At our first meeting, Orest clearly expressed his desire to continue working as a car mechanic. That same day, I contacted the employer at SIV Ambulances and secured an interview. During the meeting, Orest demonstrated not only his deep knowledge of mechanical work but also his passion for the profession. His confidence, experience, and positive attitude made a strong impression. It quickly became clear that he was a talented and dedicated worker, and he was offered a job.

For more information about JEVS Center for New Americans please click here.

Providing Compassionate Community Support Services Q&A with Falone Gantt, Director of Outreach and Recruitment

Posted on March 20, 2026March 24, 2026 by Rossella Alla

In recognition of Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting the voices of women across JEVS who are making a meaningful impact through their work and leadership. We recently connected with Falone Gantt, Director of Outreach and Recruitment, to learn more about her journey in human services, her commitment to advocacy, and the experiences that continue to shape her work supporting individuals and families.

How did you decide on a career in human services?

I have spent more than twenty years working in human services, supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and helping them navigate the behavioral health system. Over time, I found that I was drawn to work that focused on connecting people to the resources and support they need to build stability and independence.

How did you find your way to JEVS Human Services?

Today, I serve as the Director of Outreach and Recruitment at JEVS Human Services (JEVS), where I focus on connecting individuals and families to vital programs and services that support stability, independence, and opportunity. My role centers on building strong community partnerships, increasing access to resources, and ensuring that those who need support most are aware of, and able to access, the services available to them.

These programs support individuals and families across a range of needs, including behavioral health services, workforce development and job training, community living support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and family-centered services. Together, they help people build skills, gain stability, and move toward greater independence.

What do you enjoy most about the work you do?

Alongside my professional work, I am also the mother of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This personal experience has deepened my commitment to advocacy and inclusion and reminds me every day how important it is to build systems that support not only individuals, but also the families who care for them.

Throughout my career, I have been passionate about creating pathways that help people overcome barriers and move toward greater independence. I believe meaningful and sustainable change happens when communities come together to create opportunities rooted in equity, compassion, and understanding.

What advice or perspective guides your work?

Being part of this work during Women’s History Month is especially meaningful, as it reminds us how women continue to lead with resilience, purpose, and vision for a more equitable future.

As Maya Angelou once said, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” That belief continues to guide both my professional work and my personal commitment to advocacy.

Helping Adults 55 and Older Secure their Next Job: Q&A with Jacqueline Savoy, Senior Career Counselor

Posted on March 15, 2026March 25, 2026 by Rossella Alla

We recently connected with Jacqueline S. Savoy, a member of the JEVS Career Solutions team and Project Coordinator for the JEVS Career Solutions for 55+, to learn more about her journey into career counseling.

Known to her clients as Jackie, she has spent more than 12 years as a Senior Career Counselor at JEVS Career Solutions for 55+, providing career assessments, counseling, development support, and job search strategies. She holds a master’s degree in counseling education from Villanova University and a bachelor’s degree and teaching certifications from Temple University, along with multiple professional certifications in career coaching and assessment tools.

How did you decide on a career in career counseling?

I have always been curious about what people do for a living and why. I began my career teaching health education in the Philadelphia School District, influenced by my mother, who was an art teacher. I also explored financial services and considered taking over my father’s investment business, but commission-based work was not the right fit for me long term.

While working in the School District, I used my network to move into academic advising at Temple University, where I worked with business and pre-law students. During that time, I became interested in outplacement services, which support employees navigating job loss, and that helped shape my path into career counseling.

How did you find your way to JEVS Career Solutions?

After many years in the field, I experienced a major transition myself when I was one of 300 employees laid off from a job I loved. That experience gave me a deeper understanding of what my clients go through and made me a stronger coach.

When I found JEVS Career Solutions for 55+, I knew it was the right fit. The work aligned with what I had always tried to do for clients—help them find direction, confidence, and hope.

In 2023, I stepped into my current role with the 55+ program. This work is especially meaningful to me because I joined JEVS when I was over 55 myself. I understand the challenges of job searching at that stage of life and can relate directly to the people I support.

Many participants are returning to work due to financial changes, learning new technology, or navigating career transitions later in life. It is incredibly rewarding to help them move forward. One client told me he had no hope of finding work again at age 60, but after working together, he secured a job he truly wanted. Moments like that stay with me.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

“Do what you love, and you will never work a day in your life” truly resonates with me. I feel that every time a client lands a job, they are excited about.

I recently worked with someone who was struggling to get interviews. Together, we rebuilt her job search strategy, strengthened her materials, and practiced interviewing and salary negotiation. She ultimately secured a new role with a significant salary increase. Seeing that kind of transformation is incredibly fulfilling.

What advice do you share with your clients?

There is no single strategy. A successful job search includes a strong resume, tailored applications, networking, and interview preparation.

At the same time, mindset matters. I encourage clients to pursue their ideal roles and stay positive throughout the process. Believing that success is possible can make all the difference.

For more information about JEVS Career Solutions for 55+ or to schedule an appointment with Jackie Savoy, please contact 215-832-0878.