At EHM, we have lots of different programs for lifting up our community members. And we love to empower folks through partnerships—because teaming up with other organizations can be incredibly impactful.
One of our most successful partnerships is with the City of Toronto, through their transformational program “Investing in Neighbourhoods” (IIN). This initiative helps people struggling in the job market to find long-term employment, connecting them to the workforce and training them in valuable career skills.
To give you a better idea of how this program works, we’re pleased to introduce Gerry—a vibrant member of our community, who used IIN to get a permanent job at EHM as a Kitchen Assistant.
HOW DID GERRY GET INVOLVED WITH EHM?
“EHM has allowed me to create a community of friends and supports. I’ve met most of my friends today through EHM.” – Gerry
Five years ago, Gerry began accessing our services for some extra support to overcome his unemployment. He quickly became a regular face at EHM’s drop-in meals program. Eventually, Philo—our Drop-In Centre Manager— found out about his passion for cooking, offering Gerry a volunteer opportunity to prepare food for our “Out of the Cold” program. Gerry happily agreed, and rapidly became a cherished member of the EHM community.
When he had volunteered for six months, Philo brought up the IIN program to Gerry, which provided him with paid on-the-job training in EHM’s kitchen. This strengthened his career skills and built up his resume, preparing him for full-time employment while also earning him an all-important pay cheque.
After this training period, Philo decided to hire Gerry as a permanent EHM staff member. This is one of Gerry’s most memorable moments at EHM: “When Philo told me about getting the job, I lit up! I had such a big smile on my face.”
Over three years later, Gerry has flourished in his job. His duties include food prep, dish washing, and handling food deliveries, among other odds and ends. In Gerry’s words, “I do a little bit of everything.” He is incredible at work—always making an extra effort to help out wherever he’s needed.
WHAT EHM MEANS TO GERRY
“The most important thing to me is that I get to help a lot of people. I’m lifting others up, and they’re lifting me up too.” -Gerry, ehm resident
Gerry really enjoys the human connection that comes with his job, especially greeting the regulars who come into EHM every day. He is also pleased to see the positive journeys of others, such as his friend and co-worker Dwayne, who has become a Peer Worker at EHM. “It’s been so great to see him grow,” says Gerry, with a bright smile.
Looking ahead, Gerry is excited about continuing his work at EHM. He is committed to helping his peers who are in need, building deep personal relationships and being an uplifting ally to everyone who passes through our doors.