Starting over in a new country is never easy—especially when faced with language barriers and unfamiliar systems. For Mrs. Iryna, a Ukrainian refugee who arrived in the United States on April 17, 2024, the path to employment seemed daunting. With limited English skills and no means of transportation, she struggled to imagine a way forward. But thanks to the dedicated support of our Ukrainian Job Developer, her story transformed into one of hope, independence, and success.

When Iryna first connected with us, she felt overwhelmed and uncertain about where to begin. Our team immediately stepped in to provide personalized support. We began with a comprehensive assessment of her skills, prior work experience, and professional goals. This individualized approach helped us build a clear, achievable plan tailored to her unique needs.

Language was a significant hurdle, so we enrolled her in ISC’s VELT (Vocational English Language Training) program. These classes offered more than basic instruction—they empowered her with practical workplace communication skills. She learned how to present herself professionally, build a strong resume, prepare for interviews, and use job-specific vocabulary for roles such as housekeeper, cashier, and server.

Transportation was another major challenge. Without reliable access to travel for interviews or training, opportunities were limited. Thanks to the tireless efforts of staff and compassionate community volunteers, Iryna had reliable transportation throughout her job preparation process.

With growing confidence and refined skills, Iryna was ready to take the next step. Together, we crafted a strong U.S.-style resume and actively applied to local employers. When an interview was secured with a respected hotel in Hershey, Job Developer, Diana Nikitina, accompanied her to provide interpretation assistance, transportation, and moral support throughout the process.

On December 9, 2024, Iryna received a job offer for a housekeeping position with a competitive wage of $20.17 per hour—exceeding her expectations. Though the hotel was a 10-minute drive from her home, our incredible volunteers once again stepped in to help with transportation until she could save enough to meet that need independently.

For Iryna, this job was more than just employment—it marked a turning point. It symbolized stability, dignity, and a fresh start. She now holds a fulfilling full-time position close to home, a testament to her perseverance and the comprehensive support she received through ISC.

Her journey illustrates the life-changing impact of our Employment Program. By addressing critical challenges such as language proficiency, transportation, and job preparedness, we helped Iryna overcome the odds and build a foundation for long-term success. Her story stands as a powerful reminder that with the right support, refugees can not only survive—but truly thrive—in their new communities.

Today, Iryna is filled with gratitude for the team and volunteers who believed in her potential and walked beside her every step of the way. Her story shows that even in the face of the unknown, a brighter future is always within reach.