Meet Charles

My name is Charles and I’ve been working with Bessie Ford at WorkSource N/NE Portland to gain access to permanent employment. Some stumbling blocks that we have encountered is that I don’t have access to a computer with word processing abilities. I have been shut out of a  number of positions because I can’t give them a resume or be able to work from home. Even filling out my Opportunity Plan is a challenge as the only resource is via my smart phone. Completing training and even filing unemployment is a challenge because of this limitation. 

Sadly, since COVID, I haven’t been able to continue with much. Regardless, not having access to the library’s computer resources makes it difficult to print out materials. Access to a laptop is a real game changer for me as it would open up opportunities that I’ve been shut out of. I’ve worked and lived in the inner SE Portland neighborhood for 13 years and I feel sad that  I can no longer work with my neighbors in the retail grocery market. In my personal life I’ve been a volunteer with the Department of Correction teaching mediation and leading day-long  retreats at the Oregon State Penitentiary. I’ve also have the privilege of volunteering with Providence East Hospice for 3.5 years.