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Tag: JEVS Center for New Americans

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

Posted on 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.

A JEVS Center for New Americans (CNA) Story: Belona M.

Posted on by Erin Giberson

In 2024, Belona M. arrived in the United States with her young family. She faced many challenges, including adjusting to a new country, learning English, and caring for her children. Belona M. was referred to JEVS Center for New Americans (CNA) for employment and training support.

Through our program, she received case management, ESL classes, and ongoing guidance. After working hard to prepare for the job market, she was ready to take her next step. Only a few months after giving birth, she interviewed at a local company. She impressed the employer, and they hired her for a full-time position with good pay and benefits.

She often shares her gratitude for the support she received, especially for the help provided in her own language and for the encouragement that kept her moving forward. Her success is one of many examples of how determination, paired with the right support, can help someone overcome barriers and build a new, independent life.

Click here to learn more about JEVS Center for New Americans.

A JEVS Center for New Americans (CNA) Story: Roman S.

Posted on by Erin Giberson

In 2022, Roman S. came to the United States with his family to begin a new life. He had just graduated from high school and had no work experience. Even though everything was unfamiliar, he knew he needed to take steps to build his future. He reached out to JEVS for help, showing courage and determination.

With our support, he got an interview at a factory. During the meeting, he paid close attention, asked good questions, and showed that he was ready to learn. The company decided to give him a chance, and he quickly proved himself through hard work and responsibility.

At the same time, he worked on improving his English, earned his driver’s license, and became more independent. Today, he continues to do well at his job. His story shows how determination and support can help someone succeed, even when starting over in a new country.

Starting a New Chapter: A JEVS Center for New Americans Story

Posted on by Erin Giberson

Yuliia S. is a caring mother from Ukraine. When war broke out in her country, she fled with her husband and two children. They left behind everything they knew—home, jobs, friends, and family. Starting over in a new country with little money and no clear plan felt very hard.

The first few months in the U.S. were especially tough. The family didn’t speak much English and didn’t understand how things worked in their new home. They struggled to find housing, enroll the kids in school, and handle everyday tasks. Without a local support system, even small things felt overwhelming.

During this difficult time, Yuliia turned to JEVS for help. She explained her situation and asked for support. The JEVS team helped her enroll her daughter in school, apply for public benefits, and get important documents.

With those first steps complete, Yuliia began searching for a job. She had worked as a teacher assistant before, but not having a driver’s license made getting to job interviews harder. Thankfully, JEVS connected her with the Driven2Drive program. With their help, she earned her license, which gave her more freedom and better job options.

At first, Yuliia didn’t believe she could find a job in her field. She thought she might only find cleaning work. But the JEVS team believed in her and searched for jobs that matched her skills. They found a teacher assistant position at a local daycare and helped her get an interview. Yuliia got the job!

She felt thrilled to accept the position. Now, she works in a job she enjoys and does well in. She feels thankful for the support from JEVS and excited about what’s ahead.

Yuliia’s story shows how strong people can be when starting over—and how the right support can change a life. Today, she continues to grow and inspires others who face similar challenges.

JEVS Congratulates Acme Corrugated Box Co., Inc. on Receiving the Governor’s Employer Honor Roll Award

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By JEVS Staff

JEVS Human Services congratulates Acme Corrugated Box on receiving the Governor’s Employer Honor Roll at the 2025 Pennsylvania Workforce Development Association (PWDA) conference.

JEVS Center for New Americans (CNA) nominated Acme for its commitment to building an inclusive, supportive workplace. Acme has played a key role in helping Ukrainian refugees enter the workforce by providing on-site English as a Second Language (ESL) classes and ensuring that all employees are paid for their time spent in class.

These efforts go beyond standard hiring practices. They reflect a deep commitment to giving individuals the tools to succeed, both on the job and in their new communities.

Bob Cohen, President of Acme Corrugated Box and a proud supporter of JEVS for over 30 years, accepted the award. His leadership has helped establish Acme as a model employer for workforce development and inclusion in Pennsylvania.

“A natural outgrowth of the training that JEVS provides is the ability for refugees to enter the workforce,” Bob shared. “To date we now have over 35 Ukrainian employees. We began on-site ESL classes so that employees did not have to travel for instruction. A true success story for a not-for-profit and for-profit cooperating for the common good.”

We thank Acme for their continued partnership and for setting a powerful example of what it means to invest in people.

Starting a New Chapter: A JEVS Center for New Americans Story

Posted on by Rossella Alla

Elizabeth L. is a strong and determined woman who started a new chapter in her life in the United States. With her daughter, Elizabeth moved to a new country to build a better future for herself and her family. 

When she arrived in the U.S., she joined the Refugee Assistance Program (RAP) to get support finding a job and learning English. At first, learning a new language was hard, but Elizabeth never gave up. She speaks Haitian Creole and French, and she practiced her English every day by going to classes and studying on her own. 

Her efforts paid off in when she was hired for a new job. She was very excited and worked with energy and care. After three months on the job, Elizabeth felt more confident and proud of what she had accomplished. 

She also finished the Family Self-Sufficiency Program, where she learned important skills to help her in her new life. With better English and job experience, Elizabeth began looking into ways to continue her old career in caregiving. 

Elizabeth continues to reach her goals, and her story is inspiring. She shows that with hard work, support, and a positive attitude, anything is possible. She is excited about her future and hopes to help others along the way. 

Anna’s Strength: A Story of Not Giving Up

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By S.K.

When Anna came to the United States, she held on to memories of her homeland, but the war forced her to leave and find safety. Leaving the Ukraine was difficult, and starting over in a new country, far from loved ones, was one of her hardest challenges.

When she arrived in the U.S., she struggled to find work in the competitive job market and was hired at a local daycare. Although she had not worked at a daycare before, she cared for the young children with patience and love. The long hours and demanding tasks were physically and emotionally draining, but Anna refused to give up.

The breakthrough came when JEVS Human Services (JEVS) announced an opening for an ESL teacher. The job could be the perfect fit for Anna, who immediately applied. She prepared diligently for the interview, sharing her story and passion for helping others. Her hard work paid off—Anna received a job offer.

As an ESL teacher, Anna has found her calling. Every day, she helps other refugees navigate the challenges of learning English, breaking down language barriers that once held them back. Her personal experience allows her to connect with her students, inspiring them to keep trying despite the challenges they face.

 

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