Lester Allen is a United States Army veteran who spent three years of his service as an Engineering Equipment Mechanic, a job that includes repairing and maintaining anything from small air compressors for re-inflating tires, to huge bulldozers and other large diesel-engine equipment. When he left the military he took a job in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as a Grinding Machine Operator for five years, and later moved to Chaska, Minnesota where he worked the same job for the same company for another two years.

Lester was laid off and soon exhausted his unemployment insurance while looking for work. While he had years of experience in technical production field, the only job offers he was receiving were for temporary jobs which would lead to lay offs, which concerned him. He was seeking a new and challenging career with better long-term possibilities.

Lester decided to apply for the Facilities Training Program at People Serving People (PSP), a 12-week program for developing skills in electrical work, plumbing, locksmithing and other building maintenance trades, as well as learning to operate boiler and chiller equipment.

Lester’s approach to interviewing was noteworthy. Lester told interviewers “My plan is to be on time, to not miss any day of training, to not cause any trouble for the instructor and to be the best student you’ve ever had.” He went on to do exactly that. He graduated from the program as a top student, scored 92% on his boiler license exam, and was hired by PSP as a Maintenance Facility Associate, an interim, part-time position until he moved back to Pennsylvania.

Before moving back to Pennsylvania, Lester established contacts and job interviews with several companies. After arriving he enlisted the help of three temporary services, participated in a Veterans Job Fair, and made direct contacts with several companies including; Target, Hershey, OMEX, Allegheny Veterinary Hospital, and NDC. Lester’s short-term goal was to work two or three jobs until he felt confident that he had established a solid, long-term career path.

He accomplished that goal with Target, OMEX, and NDC. He works short-term hours with Target and OMEX while working full-time days at NDC as a Maintenance Tech for $12.00 an hour in a senior citizen living complex. Lester’s outlook for advancement at his current company is very positive. His excellent customer skills and positive attitude coupled with his enhanced maintenance skills will make sure that the future remains bright for this dedicated and accomplished man.

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One of the goals at People Serving People (PSP) is to help guests and its students feel they can lead self-sufficient lives. One of the programs offered through PSP to aid in achieving this goal is the Culinary Arts Training Program. In the case of Faduma Hashi, it allowed her to ultimately achieve the "American Dream."

A native of Somalia, Faduma's success did not come without struggle. "When I left Somalia, the civil war had just begun. People were killing each other. It was horrible. I never dreamed in a few years I would be doing this. When I arrived in the United States I heard about the 'American Dream.' I believed it and I decided I would own my own company," said Faduma.

When Faduma decided it was food she wanted to work with, she was directed towards PSP. She was desperately looking for a training program in the culinary arts that she could afford. Through a source at Goodwill/Easter Seals she was told about the Culinary Arts Training Program at PSP.

As many of us learn in life, we must start at the bottom and work our way up. Faduma was no exception. Upon beginning the Training Program, she was anxious to learn anything and everything about the food service industry. "It was so satisfying and gave me so much joy to feed people, to know that they had clean, well-prepared food, I was even joyful fixing onions," said Faduma.

Now, as a graduate of the program Faduma has opened her own cafe. In affinity with the star she has become, the cafe is appropriately named, Starlight Cafe. Faduma features a full menu that captures tastes from around the world. Most notably are her pastries that are mouth-wateringly delicious.

With her success, Faduma has not forgotten her ties to PSP. "I love the kitchen crew and PSP managers; they are the kindest people on earth," said Faduma. She credits her success to all her hours of training, dedication and support. Faduma also advises those who may be just starting off, "The opportunities are vast here and everyone should take advantage of them."

If you are interested in tasting some of Faduma's decadent desserts you can visit her at the Starlight Cafe, located in the Midtown Global Market, downtown Minneapolis.

You can also call orders in ahead of time for special occasions at: 612.871.STAR (7827).

To lear more about People Serving People’s Job Training Programs call the Employment Coordinator at 612.277.0208.

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