- Author: Coraima Linares
My journey to UC CalFresh was quite interesting. It started with two employees recruiting volunteers for the MEET program in my health class at Fresno State. I recall contemplating the idea of volunteering since I was going to have school commitments happening around the same time. Nonetheless, I found the program interesting and I wanted to know more about it and build more experience. Even my professor encouraged me since I was a few months away from graduation. I took the opportunity and sent in my application the day before it was due. When I received my confirmation and welcome to the program, I grew excitement to begin a great opportunity.
In June, we had a mandatory training for all volunteers. I began volunteering for the MEET program in July. That was where the first opportunity was mentioned for open positions within their organization. My first thoughts were that it sounded like a great opportunity and I should consider the application process. A few weeks later, I considered reading the application and noted the specific requirements. I must admit I was a little intimidated by the job description and requirements. I submitted my application in July before the closure. I was called in for an interview around mid-August. It was a until a month later that that I got my call back with an offer for the position. I accepted the position late September. I was officially hired on October 16, 2017 a day before my birthday so that was a very nice gift for me. The entire process lasted about two months. Today, I am content with my position in the organization and with the rewarding mission I'm a part of. I'm glad I took the chance to apply and see the outcome come true. I'm blessed with this given opportunity to be a part of such a rewarding organization.
Coraima Linares
- Author: Amber Viveros
I first heard about UC CalFresh while I was volunteering with a local organization. They had a booth at a community event and I learned so much about what the program does for Fresno County. I was interested with the work that they do so I visited the UC CalFresh website and contacted the volunteer coordinator. They were still altering the MEET Volunteer program, so I was put on the contact list for volunteer candidates. I was told I would be contacted at the end of the spring semester which was around graduation. When the MEET program was ready, I filled out an application and attended the orientation in June 2017. During the orientation staff members mentioned that there were open positions to be part of the UC CalFresh team and they encouraged us to apply. I knew this would be a great opportunity for me because I had recently graduated, and I could get a lot of experience. I applied for the position in July and I was called for an interview in August. I continued volunteering during this time to complete my hours and to also get more familiar with the work that was done around the office. I was offered the position in September and began working in mid-October. I have enjoyed working here and I am looking forward to all the positive changes we will bring to Fresno County.
