Meet Michel
What brought you to EMBERS?
I had just finished a recovery program at UGM and wanted to gradually start working again. So when I saw an advertisement for EMBERS, I decided to apply. I was well received, and they actually wanted me to work the same day. I was a little surprised and told them I’d be back the next day. I came back, and they put me to work right away.
How has your experience with us been so far?
The way your team treated me here has been pretty awesome. I have been to other temp agencies, and there, it was all about politics and not your work ethic. You could be sitting there for a few days and not be sent out. They weren’t very nice or professional, and they charged you for equipment. It’s more of a business model, where they pay low and don’t really care about their workers.
EMBERS will lend the equipment free of charge and pay for your tickets for training. It’s a big difference. I’ve worked here for close to three years on and off.
What is your favourite part of working with us?
When I come here, I am not a stranger. I’m appreciated for what I do. EMBERS cares about their people. That’s my favourite part. My second favourite part is they always have work. Anyone can come here in the morning, and if you want work, there will be work. There is no politics, and you can work at whatever you are skilled in. Not to mention cookies are given on Friday.
How have we helped you?
I have COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and other health issues and had to take time off work. EMBERS helped to find me work I could do with my health issues. They helped me renew my forklift ticket and gave me scissor lift training. Soon, I am going to be trained in OFA 2 (Occupational First Aid) and eventually CSO (Construction Safety Officer).
What have you said when others have asked you about your experience working with us?
When people ask me about EMBERS, I tell them EMBERS is a non-profit organization that takes care of you. They will help you move forward, help you get tickets so you can get better pay and better jobs. After you have been there for a while and shown that you are a good worker, they will go all out for you. It is not like other temp agencies that don’t care about you or your situation, caring only about your hours and the money you bring them.
Not enough people know what EMBERS offers. A lot of people see EMBERS as a temp agency, but I think not enough is emphasized that it is a non-profit organization, and the programs they have in place to help you move forward. One day I will be a staff member at EMBERS. I don’t know in what capacity, but it will happen.