When Oscar first came to Chrysalis more than five years ago, he was looking for a fresh start. He spent three years as a client, building skills, confidence, and discipline. With guidance and support, he transitioned into staff roles, and for the past two and a half years, he has served as a Works Supervisor, proving that with the right support, change is possible.
“Chrysalis is a great place,” Oscar says. “It helps the community. It gives people a second chance and hope that they can do better. Their doors are always open for all.”
In his current role as a Works Supervisor, Oscar helps his team of sweepers maintain districts across the community. He prepares supplies, uniforms, and equipment, responds to service calls, and provides guidance to his team. Beyond operations, he connects with clients one-on-one, listens to their challenges, and reminds them of their strengths. “I try to hype them up and make them believe in themselves,” he says. “Eventually, they believe in themselves too.”
Oscar’s leadership extends to larger projects as well. He helped supervise crews during the launch of the Office of Community Beautification Clean Streets program in Los Angeles and supported a crew launch in Orange County through a partnership with the City of Anaheim and Anaheim Public Works. These projects show what is possible when individuals are given the opportunity to work, grow, and contribute to their communities.
The journey has transformed Oscar as much as those he leads. “When I first started, I didn’t care much about working,” he reflects. “Being here opened my eyes. It made me realize that anybody can make it. All I needed was an attitude adjustment and guidance. Working with managers and supervisors who have imperfect pasts shows me that I can change too.”
Since joining the team, Oscar has grown skills in painting, pressure washing, leadership, teamwork, and communication. The biggest change, he says, is how much more confident and capable he feels today.
“Chrysalis is a helping hand that picks you up when you fall, giving everyone another chance,” Oscar says.
His advice to others is simple: “The bad days do not last forever. There is a brighter day around the corner. Be patient and remind yourself, especially in your darkest times, why you are doing it.”
Thanks to your support, Chrysalis can continue opening doors and walking alongside people like Oscar, who are not only building their own futures but also lifting up their teams, their communities, and the next generation of clients.
Like Oscar, you, too, can make a difference in the lives of individuals navigating barriers to employment by joining our team of dedicated and passionate professionals.