As class comes to an end at noon, Lesley can usually be found hanging back with clients. After nearly two years of facilitating job-readiness classes at Chrysalis Santa Monica, staying later to answer questions and get to know clients has become a part of her weekly routine. For Lesley, volunteering here isn’t just about teaching classes, but making sure clients get as much as possible out of her time and expertise.
“I want them to feel like this is their place. It’s their organization that’s here to help them,” she explains. “I want them to feel connected.”
Growing up in Pasadena, Lesley began working at an early age for her mother’s business. She moved around over the years for school and work before finally returning to Los Angeles to run C Magazine.
Her busy schedule made it difficult to volunteer at first, but after she was invited to Chrysalis’ annual Butterfly Ball about eight years ago, she knew she wanted to work with the organization in the future.
“At Butterfly Ball, one client gave a speech about how grateful they were and how important Chrysalis was to them,” Lesley recalls. “After their speech, I knew I could make an impact at Chrysalis.” When the opportunity to volunteer fit into her schedule, she jumped at the opportunity.
As an employer, Lesley has been able to bring a unique perspective to the classes she facilitates, Soft Skills and Workplace Success. She notes that the 30-second networking pitch in Soft Skills is one of her favorite themes to cover. Not only is it useful, she finds that it can provide an instantaneous reward for clients. “When people get in this safe space and practice the networking pitch, they get to see this little success! It’s important to help them see a light at the end of the tunnel.”
Lesley believes one of the most vital parts of her role is making sure everyone is comfortable, heard, involved, and that they know they have a support system at Chrysalis. The impact she has can be seen clearly when clients stay behind after each class, sharing their stories and hopes for their futures. Beyond teaching the tangible curriculum, Lesley always takes the time to ensure that clients know there are people who want to know them and listen to them.
“We’re all human beings just trying to make it through our lives, and there are ups and downs… [The challenges the clients face] can happen to any of us. It’s important to let them know they aren’t alone in this world.”