Meet Calvary’s First Job Developer

Have you heard the news? Calvary launched the Step Up DC Job Placement Program this month! We also welcomed a new staff member, Robinson Cook, who will oversee Step Up DC as our first-ever Job Developer. Even though he has only been with us a few weeks, Robinson has already been making big strides as the program gets underway. He shared a little more about himself, including some goals for this exciting new program.

How did you hear about Calvary and what motivated you to work here?
I heard about Calvary through an announcement on a nonprofit jobs site. As I began to read and learn more about the organization, I became excited about the prospect of working here. What attracted me most about the position was that the entire organization had identified a gap in services and was committed to addressing the need. Having total organizational engagement and committed resources when taking an initiative from the idea phase to actual implementation is an exciting place to be in.

 

What have you enjoyed the most about your work so far?
I’ve enjoyed the daily interactions with residents. Because I work in close proximity with them, they often stop by my office to make small talk. It is through these daily, informal interactions that I am learning more about womens’ past lives and future ambitions. The welcoming atmosphere and energy from the entire staff has allowed me to find my space quickly within the organization.

Is there any upcoming project that you are especially excited about?
I am very excited about starting to have Calvary residents participate in Step Up DC. Soon we will begin taking a limited number of residents through the enrollment, employment planning and job placement process to test and refine our model.

What is one of your goals for Step Up DC?
My goal is for Step Up DC to be the preeminent resource for other organizations looking to implement a job placement and retention model for similar populations.

Share a fun fact about yourself!
I once served as the president of the Twin Cities Badminton Club and helped organize one of the largest annual competitive badminton tournaments that to this day still draws 100+ players from around the upper Midwest for two days of competition.