Work Life
When the lights come on at the club…
When a restaurant signals last call…
When you’ve completed all classes toward your degree…
When the street light turns green…
These are all signs that it’s time to go, but when it comes to your career, how do you know?
Read MoreThe value of faith and family was instilled in my brothers, sister and I from the beginning of our lives. As a child I was never allowed to go to sleepovers or birthday parties of classmates. Both of my parents had multiple siblings who also had children, and our free time was spent at church and/or with family. These are values that remain important and fundamental in my life today.
I was always surrounded by Christians who believed and never had to worry about being offensive by showing my faith until I did. As I grew older I understood that my parents kept me and my siblings in the company of family to avoid outside influence before we were mature enough to remain true to Christian principles we’d been taught even when others around us didn’t.
Exercising my faith in all areas of my life is important. In effort to let God in when he’s not always welcome, here are four ways to keep your faith in the workplace .
Read MoreAs a student in college and grad school, I always dreamed about the days I would dress up for work and walk into my office feeling like a model on a runway. Clear a path and cue the music....Today, that's my reality.
I celebrated a quarter of a century in October, but its not uncommon for people to mistake me for an 18 year old, especially on the weekends. Working at United Way, my dress code depends on my day. Most days I wear professional attire, however; when I'm leading a corporate volunteer group or painting murals on a Saturday, denim and Nike's are acceptable.
Although I'm not a fan of baby heels (unless it's a wedge), open toes (in professional settings) or lace up styles (in general), I can't get enough of the following wardrobe staples. Whether I'm in the office or out on the town, I'll take one in every color and style.
Heels add a little age, a little confidence and a little spice to my ensembles. I usually wear them four days a week and feel like the star of my show. Because I am responsible for volunteer scheduling, I try to wear flats on Tuesdays and Thursdays in case I have to jump in an assembly line to pack bags of food for hungry kids or assist with other service projects onsite. Sometimes I just pack a pair of flats to be safe.
Although the SJP Collection is outside of my price range, l'm obsessed with the Lucille, Fawn, and Trance Styles. A girl can dream, right? I know Carrie Bradshaw would agree.
Growing up in a Christian family and the Church Of God In Christ Denomination, dresses and skirts were once the only clothing I owned, and I longed for the days I could wear pants or shorts. Now I truly appreciate the selection of dresses in my closet. It's the perfect option when I can't figure out what to wear and there isn't much time to decide; many styles and materials don't require an iron or steamer which is an added bonus. They are cute and comfortable. Two birds. One stone. From personalities to celebrities to royalty, every woman has or should have a wrap dress in their wardrobe.
Whether you're wearing a suit or jeans, there's a perfect blazer for anything. One of my best friends, D'Anthony Jackson styles them seamlessly from day to night, dressy to casual and everything in between.
In addition to the staples listed above, I love the Torie Pant by Apt. 9. They are affordable, made with quality and feel amazing. I'm also a huge fan of with Lauren Conrad's line. Her ensembles always have the perfect splash of feminine. Both are available at Kohl's. I bought several pieces while I worked there through grad school. I'm also wearing the Torie Pant in both photos below and an LC top in the photo at the Auto Club Speedway.
Fashion isn't about what the world says is trending. It's about an ensemble that makes you feel and look confident in your personal style. As I walked into church on Sunday an usher complimented my smile and told me I looked "fashionably wonderful," and that's how I felt. That's fashion. I hope you feel it too.
What are your favorite pieces? Do you have any rules, favorite brands or places to shop? Share below.
XX,
Jasmine C. Tate
It’s #RealWorldWednesday and Valentine’s Day. In celebration of the two, here are four things I love about working for a nonprofit. United Way has been the world’s largest charity for the last few years, according to Forbes, and as an affiliate Inland Empire United Way has definitely provided firsthand knowledge and experience of how and why it grew to be such.
Volunteers work to complete the mural on the West Randall Elementary Playground, led by IEUW Americorps, Carly Corona. photo courtesy of IEUW
West Randall Elementary School recently experienced a complete transformation. On November 4, 2017 hundreds of volunteers sacrificed their Saturday for a biannual day of service which revitalized the campus with ten beautification projects. The Result: student behavior issues that decreased to 0% because the kids were grateful for the time and work of selfless volunteers.
Gail Maddox, member of the 211 Pathways Home Outreach Team, shares stories of those housed during the 211 celebration of the program's one year anniversary. photo courtesy of IEUW
Because of the 211 Pathways Home Team, more than 300 individuals and families experiencing homelessness in San Bernardino County now have a safe place to rest their heads at night.
Workshops, community college tours, and business leader presentations are components of the Promise Scholars and Launch Point Programs, which provided more than 10,000 students in low income neighborhoods with tools and resources to achieve training and success beyond high school last year.
These are a few examples of the work that happens through United Way. Of all the perks that come with employment in the nonprofit sector, nothing beats the tangible impact created for individuals, children, families and communities touched by its work.
United Way fights for every person in every community to break the cycle of poverty with a focus on health, education and financial stability. Our 211 Team is the epitome of passion and hard work; these traits among others keep them coming back to the phones changing lives one call at a time. (No one said it was easy.) Professionals are often passionate about the cause supported by their place of employment. 211 is a 24/7 hotline offering verified information, resources and referrals for people in need.
Pictured above are photos from events with some of our many valued partners throughout the year including UPS, Target, Inland Empire Health Plan, the Auto Club Speedway, Charming Charlie and members of the IEUW Team. Photos courtesy of IEUW
It’s an amazing feeling to be apart of something bigger than you, and when you join a nonprofit team, its one you experience often. No matter what the cause supporters are there to lend a hand, time and resources. United is more than a word in our name, its an active part of our mission, values and daily practices. Being a part of the United Way Network alone provides a wealth of experienced professionals and resources; add other nonprofits and our supporters and the access is overwhelming. Although we may request a donation of time or money, know that it is being used responsibly to help others. Nonprofits rely on the support of our communities to continue the important and meaningful work we do.
Both a necessary skill and benefit, flexibility is used often in conversations about my current position. Change is something that happens frequently in the world of nonprofits, and in life. Volunteers cancel; schedules are altered, and roles expand. Being able to adapt to the challenges and shifts that occur more often than not will help any nonprofit professional achieve success. Having the ability to alter my schedule and day to day responsibilities also keeps work interesting and allows for life to happen as it may.
These four words prompted by four letters on Valentine’s Day, describe some of things I love most about working for a nonprofit and specifically, United Way. #LiveUnited
What do you enjoy most about your work? Share below.
XX,
Jasmine C. Tate
