After more than two decades in retail, Ann didn’t expect her next chapter would be in human services. But when she unexpectedly lost her job, she found herself searching for something new.

A friend suggested she apply to New Hope Community, where a few positions were open, an idea that would ultimately lead her to a completely new career path.

“I was in retail for 25 years and lost my job,” Ann recalls. “A friend told me New Hope had some positions open, so I applied.”

Originally interviewing for a House Manager role, she was encouraged to try something different and applied for an Employment Specialist position instead. Seven years later, she’s now the Senior Employment Specialist, helping the people New Hope supports find and maintain jobs in the community.

Her typical workday, she says, is best described as “structured chaos,” with lots of moving parts and coordination. But for Ann, the most rewarding part of the job is simple.

“My favorite part is the guys,” she says. “Watching them win.”

Of course, those wins come in many forms. Between landing a first job, maintaining employment, or earning a promotion, the margin for success is broad, and Ann is there every step of the way.

“When someone gets a job and keeps it, or gets promoted, the look on their face is the best part,” she says. “And they tell everyone they see. They’re so proud.”

Ann believes employment is an important part of helping people feel connected to their communities saying, “Working is just a normal part of life. Everyone works. Everyone should have the right to work.”

One success story that stands out to her is Ritchie, who has worked at ShopRite for more than two decades.

“He’s been there 21 years, and they absolutely adore him,” she says. “He’s become a staple there.”

Helping individuals find those opportunities can take persistence. Much of the work involves outreach and relationship-building with businesses in the community.

“It’s a lot of footwork,” she says. “But it’s worth it to watch the guys succeed. That’s the best part.”

Outside of work, Ann enjoys reading, bookbinding, running a small photography business, and spending time with her kids. But the work she does at New Hope remains the most meaningful part of her day.