Job hunting experts say employees most often start new jobs in January and February.

Fresh hiring budgets and momentum from New Year resolutions drive the hiring trends for job seekers.

One Gabriel Homes resident, Caryn, started a new job at Ellmore Farmhouse at Frying Pan Park.

ServiceSource, a nonprofit serving adults with disabilities, was awarded a grant to restore the house and provide employment opportunities.

Employees at Ellmore Farmhouse work in customer service at the Blossom Café and the Blossom Gift Shop. At the café, staff serve food and drinks, while in the gift shop, they manage retail sales. Caryn’s favorite item to serve is her drink of choice, coffee. Coffee orders are prepared by loading cups into the coffee machine, pressing the buttons for the amount, and securing the lids before serving them.

“I like working at the Blossom Café and meeting customers. I bring the food and drinks to them, and I ring them up on the tablet when they pay.”

Gabriel Homes resident at her job.

Years of Mentorship

Caryn’s manager, Kenny Smith, has worked with her at previous vocational programs. Since helping her onboard at Ellmore, Kenny has been proud of her growth working in customer service.

“Starting a new job is a transition for everyone,” says Kenny. “Caryn’s eager to participate at her job and is responsive to staff when they teach her the work.”

Gabriel Homes resident learning about her new job.

Come Visit Ellmore Farmhouse at Frying Pan Park!

Since Ellmore Farmhouse’s launch, the ServiceSource team is looking forward to spreading the word and getting new customers at the stores.

“When people see what our employees do, they keep coming back,” says Amy Kreischer (back), community integration specialist at ServiceSource. “They see Caryn in action and know she’s part of their community. Ellmore is in a special part of Herndon since it’s in Frying Pan Park, which attracts thousands of visitors each week. So stop by and say hello after seeing the farm animals!”

All residents at Gabriel Homes go to work or a vocational program during the day.

If you’re interested in becoming a resident at Gabriel Homes, see what you need to qualify at gabrielhomes.org.

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