Joel Beamon
Joel Beamon enrolled in the Philabundance Community Kitchen with an urgent desire to learn a skill and quickly gain employment. This urgency was best expressed in a recommendation letter written by his 12 year -old son upon Joel’s entrance into the program.
“To Whom it May Concern:
I am writing this letter of recommendation for my dad Joel Beamon. My dad had been through some hard times, and this is why I’m recommending him. My dad desperately needs a job so that my dad and I could be a family again. If and when he graduates, I will know that he’ll find a job and we’ll be happy again.
Sincerely,
Ellis Beamon”
PCK is proud of Joel Beamon and his follow through on his promises to his son and to himself! |
The hard times that his son wrote about undoubtedly included Joel’s recent 2 year incarceration and re-entry to society. Although he holds an Associates Degree in Computer Electronics Systems Technology, and has almost 7 years of experience in that field, Joel’s criminal history greatly restricted his opportunities in the computer industry. He knew he needed to acquire a new skill quickly, in order to be independent of public assistance and provide for his son again. He chose the culinary field because it was something he always enjoyed, and felt confident he could succeed in it.
While enrolled in the 14-week training program, Joel demonstrated a mature and professional approach to his work. He was cooperative and helpful in the kitchen. While he missed several days for doctor’s appointments related to his asthma, he maintained a positive attitude and willingness to do whatever was suggested to him in order to achieve his goals.
Joel was given the opportunity to do a 2 week non-paid internship with a Sodexho Corporate Services unit at the GE Betz Company in Trevose, PA under the supervision of Chef Larry Lanigan. Joel eagerly made the one and a half hour commute plus a 20 minute “pedestrian unfriendly” walk early each morning. When Chef Larry asked Joel to work a special catering event at the company, Joel jumped at the opportunity, even though it meant working late and navigating his way home on public transportation that runs less frequently at those hours.
Joel received a very good evaluation from Chef Larry for his dependability and attitude. Although Joel was new to food service, and lacked the experience that the rest of his crew had, Chef Larry decided to bring Joel on board in an on-call capacity. Joel began immediately following his graduation from PCK in July, 2004. He started by filling in for other crew members who were on maternity leave or vacation. But within one month, Joel was placed into a permanent position with Sodexho, including benefits. This was very important to Joel, because now he had some job security and medical coverage for himself and his son.
Joel enjoys his position with Sodexho, especially when he works the deli or grill for the lunch time rush at GE Betz. He is a warm, friendly person, and a pleasant customer service provider. According to his current supervisor, Brian Mihm, Joel’s performance has been satisfactory, and he is considering Joel for a pay increase in the near future.
Joel continues to be closely involved with the Philabundance Community Kitchen by providing leadership to the Alumni Association and mentoring current students.
PCK is proud of Joel Beamon and his follow through on his promises to his son and to himself!
Read another Success Story |
