L to R: Sue Abel, Ryan Mountain, Candace Gallo, Jenni Paine
(Palm Beach, FL) On October 2, 2023, Candace Gallo, a Career Resource Specialist on the Palm Beach Team, was presented a Success at Work award during a team meeting. She was nominated for the award by Director Jenni Paine. Since the award’s inception in 2000, Work Opportunities Unlimited (WOU) has presented the Success at Work award to honor and recognize team members who have delivered outstanding service to our clients consistent with the company’s core values.
A notable example of Candace’s exceptional support involves her success with a client who was referred to Independence Works for on-the-job training (OJT). This individual had not worked in 14 years and did not have any current computer skills. She was going through dialysis 3 days per week, which was very difficult for her physically. She was also a single mother of three daughters and wanted to set a good example for them. Candace sought to find an opportunity for her client that would help grow her skills while accommodating her health needs. The individual liked the idea of working for a place that was making a difference in people’s lives, so Candace reached out to a non-profit organization that assists families with children under the age of 18 that are homeless. With Candace’s support, the individual prepared for her first interview in over a decade, created a resume, and was offered an OJT opportunity as a front desk assistant.
Very quickly, the employer felt a connection to the individual, and her time-limited OJT turned into a long-term job. Candace remained in contact with the individual, coaching her on advocating for herself professionally. The individual was able to afford her first car and was awarded employee of the quarter for her dedication to the clients the organization serves. Candace and Jenni Paine attended the award event, as did the individual’s daughters. The individual was so honored and humbled by this recognition. Subsequently, she was promoted to assistant to the director. She continues to keep Candace updated and is so proud of how far she has come and what she has been able to offer her daughters.
During the award presentation Ryan Mountain presented Candace with a certificate which read:
For her commitment to our core values, “We believe all people can work” and “We are a pioneering and creative organization.” Candace has successfully supported many clients as a Career Resource Specialist on the Palm Beach team. One individual who was referred to Independence Works for on-the-job training had not worked in 14 years and was also undergoing dialysis. The individual felt that she wasn’t employable, but Candace did not accept that. Candace helped her find an opportunity that allowed her to meet her goals of getting back into the workplace, growing her skills, contributing to a worthwhile cause, and setting a good example for her children. This quickly led to a paid placement, and she was able to afford her first car, was awarded employee of the quarter, and received a promotion. The individual is proud of her accomplishments and has improved the quality of life for her family, thanks to Candace’s outstanding support.
