This year I have had the opportunity to congratulate several graduates as they branch out in to the world with new degrees. As they head out on new or redefined careers they all are surviving on hope. That hope comes from us, the people in their community. I would love to report that I am hearing people administering joy and celebration to these individuals. The opposite however is more common. Conversations at parties or commencements center on that horrid term heard too often, “today’s economy”. Statistics on unemployment lodge in the heart. All are like lead weights holding them down with our lack of inspiration or vision.
After hearing Tom Hanks speak to the graduates of Yale I decided to do my best to first celebrate with the graduates and second share with them all my resources via networks to make sure that if I could find them a job I would. As Hanks said, they have fear behind them and hope before them.
They need to know you are there for them, noticing where they are headed and as a community member willing to make an extra effort to aid them in their quest.
One graduate is my nephew Matt Eberhart. He is now hold a degree from the University of Oregon in economics hoping to work in corporate responsibility. He is a bright and outgoing young man with a strong work ethic.
Another graduate is my wife Kristine. She received her masters after going back to school. As a highly qualified special education teacher she offers both a strong background of several years as a classroom teacher and a passion to provide excellent instruction to children with special needs.
Do they both face opposition, resistance, and stacks of other applicants battling for a few positions? Yes, but they also have us. I have no doubt that they will find their way. We play a critical role in helping them find it. Will you join me?
To start, if you know of an opportunity or someone who might help, drop me a note on my contact form with the subject line HOPE. Think of someone seeking a job and connect them to one.
