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, […]
Amanda Muñoz first learned about Chrysalis while working as a student researcher at the UCLA Labor Center. After transcribing an interview with a Chrysalis staff member, she was inspired by the impact of social enterprise and workforce development. That moment stayed with her and eventually led her to join the Chrysalis team. Amanda became part […]
When you walk through the doors of Chrysalis’ Downtown Los Angeles center, you’ll find Jazelle working behind the scenes to help power our mission forward. As an Operations Coordinator for Chrysalis Works, she supports our social enterprise business lines while bringing heart, lived experience, and over 20 years of professional expertise to her role. Jazelle’s […]
When you step into Chrysalis’ Downtown Los Angeles center, it’s hard to miss Shemel’s warm and welcoming presence. As a client services operations coordinator, he is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued. “What excites me about working at Chrysalis is that I get the opportunity every day […]
“When I first started working for Chrysalis as a client, I knew right away that this was for me. I looked around the van and thought, ‘This is where I belong.’” In many ways, a Chrysalis Roads van embodies the essence of a chrysalis. It serves as a space for growth, change, and transformation for […]
It’s impossible to miss Rudy’s glowing smile when you enter Chrysalis’ Downtown Los Angeles center. As client services operations coordinator, he is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service every day, ensuring that our lobby is both safe and welcoming for clients and all who enter. He explains that his approach is rooted in empathy and […]
The car is so silent you could hear a pin drop. Shantelle glances into the rearview mirror and locks smiling eyes with her son and daughter – they know what’s coming. In an instant, a spontaneous burst of rhythm fills the vehicle, beginning with Shantelle’s foundational beat – boom-chk, boom-boom-chk – followed by her children’s […]
Nicole was first drawn to Chrysalis’ model of providing individuals a pathway to employment. Witnessing it first-hand and in action, she saw what stable work could do for people taking their next steps in life. After dedicating 16 years of service to Los Angeles-based nonprofits that specialize in workforce development and education, Nicole joined Chrysalis […]
Bright and early, Symphony starts her workday stationed behind the front desk at the Chrysalis Downtown Los Angeles center. When the doors open at 8 a.m., Symphony and her fellow Client Services colleagues spring into action, warmly welcoming clients with a cup of coffee and guiding them toward essential job-readiness resources and support – such […]
In March 2018, Jessica stepped into the foyer of the Santa Monica Public Library, a place she had been a dozen times as a volunteer literacy tutor. However, this time, she noticed a flyer on the wall adorned with a butterfly logo promoting a networking event. Having recently moved back from living in San Diego, […]
Ready to take the next step in their career, Jessi first joined the Chrysalis Downtown Los Angeles center as an Employment Specialist in 2021. While supporting clients in this capacity, Jessi has found inspiration in cultivating meaningful relationships with those we serve. Currently, as the Business Development Coordinator, they leverage their expertise to support clients […]
Robert greets his freeway maintenance crew at 7 a.m. sharp. As the group clocks in and reviews safety protocols, he sees that one of the individuals appears discouraged and learns that they almost skipped their shift. After a brief chat, Robert convinces him to stick it out. Chrysalis Roads is a division of our employment […]
Michael admits that he veered off track in life a few times growing up. “I had my share of trying to be involved with gangs and drugs, but over time, I realized that wasn’t the life for me.” During one particular detour – his last sentence of three-and-a-half years in prison – Michael received word […]
At Chrysalis, we celebrate with a client who lands a job by having them ring the bell; however, we also recognize the value of celebrating the “little bells” along the way. Hear from Chrysalis client, Marshall, a transitional jobs worker with Chrysalis Enterprises in this Q&A.
As John makes his rounds in Downtown Los Angeles, he greets individuals —some all too familiar faces— all struggling with homelessness. Maybe today will be the day they are ready to come to him for help. After experiencing homelessness, incarceration, and a 24-year off-and-on battle with addiction, John knows what a challenge it is to admit when it’s time to get help.