Finding Purpose at BOSS: From Job Seeker to Case Manager

Last fall, my life underwent a shift that I never expected. Suddenly, a displaced homemaker and single mother, I stood at a crossroads—either retreat or rebuild. I chose to rebuild, trusting in faith and determination to guide me forward.

After being out of the workforce for nearly a decade, I knew I had to start over, but with intention. That’s when I saw a flyer for a BOSS Job Fair at Merritt College. My daughter, who was also a student there, encouraged me to attend. I visited every table, but it was the last one—BOSS—where something clicked. I met two incredibly kind staff members, Keisha and Nicia, who listened to my story and immediately connected me with the Career Readiness class.

Within weeks, I completed intake, enrolled in the class, and shortly after, was offered an on-the-job training role as a receptionist at the Wellness, Empowerment and Resiliency Campus(WERC). The experience opened my eyes to a workplace full of empathy, integrity, and purpose.

I fell in love with BOSS’ mission—serving those who’ve been unhoused, system-impacted, or overlooked—and I felt at home.

Through SousSHE, a women's empowerment organization that hosts healing circles at BOSS, I found sisterhood and strength—healing alongside other women of color in a space that honors our truth has been nothing short of soul-soothing.

After my receptionist term ended, I was offered a second on-the-job training (OJT) position as a Data Entry Clerk. I encouraged my daughters to enroll in the Career Readiness class too—both completed it and began their own journeys with BOSS. And then, in April, I was offered something I had only dared to hope for: a permanent role at BOSS as an Employment Case Manager.

This journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been transformative. I’m grateful to God and to every angel at BOSS who believed in me. Now, it’s my turn to pay it forward—and help someone else find their way home.

Adelya H.

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