Improving society by employing the less fortunate

Caregiving is woven into the fabric of our society in many ways. Family caregivers support their loved ones, while professionals, like nurses and teachers, dedicate their careers to helping others. Places of worship, social agencies, and businesses are also crucial in providing care for those in need.

Yet, despite these efforts, many people still fall through the cracks. Look no further than those who have no homes and no jobs – the people you see sleeping on the streets. They’re often struggling with mental illness, drug addiction, legal issues, or unemployment – or all of the above.

We have a responsibility to help those less fortunate, and there are many ways to give support. We can volunteer at shelters, donate to charities, or support policies that address the root causes of these issues. Businesses also have a unique role to play, especially by providing job opportunities.

Employment is essential, not just for the paycheck, but for the pride, security, and sense of belonging it provides. A meaningful job can transform lives, while fostering relationships and connections that make a lasting impact.

That’s why I want to shine a spotlight today on a staffing company that’s changing lives for those who have been overlooked. The success of First Step Staffing is an inspiration to all of us.

A chance meeting

I first became aware of First Step Staffing while on a plane two years ago. It was a Sunday during football season, and the plane was buzzing with excitement – except for the woman seated next to me. I struck up a conversation, and she shared her story of loss and resilience.

The woman, Monica Block, had recently lost her husband, Greg, at the far-too-young age of 54. Rather than dwelling on his passing, she spoke about his legacy. Greg had believed that with stable work and income, people experiencing homelessness could regain their dignity and start on a path to self-sufficiency.

In 2007, he founded First Step Staffing in Atlanta. It’s now grown to a multi-city operation that serves over 8,000 people annually, many of whom face steep barriers to employment. 

Monica’s story and Greg’s mission resonated with me. My family started Smile Farms to help create jobs for people with developmental disabilities, helping them to live fuller, more dignified lives. I’ve seen firsthand how meaningful employment can change lives.

Helping with the first step

More than two years after that flight, I caught up with Amelia Nickerson , First Step’s CEO. She explained the problem the company is trying to solve. Often, people on the margins are dismissed. It’s easy to walk down the street, pass someone struggling, and wonder why they don’t “just get a job.” But as Amelia illuminated:

“What we sometimes forget is that many of them want to work. They’re just caught in a vicious cycle that makes stable employment seem unreachable.”

First Step’s team understands this on a deep level and has developed a staffing model that turns the traditional approach upside down. While most staffing agencies screen out candidates who lack addresses or have other barriers, First Step screens people in. Amelia explained:

“We see them as an untapped workforce. We offer job placements in various industries, from light manufacturing to warehousing. Importantly, we help remove common barriers by providing coaches, transportation, shoes, clothing, and toiletries.”

First Step’s goal is to have people working within 72 hours of seeking help. To date, it’s filled over 25,000 jobs.

First Step and 1-800-Flowers.com

After meeting Monica on the plane, I connected First Step with the 1-800-Flowers.com talent management team and the leaders of Smile Farms. After several conversations, about 350 people from First Step started working at our distribution facility in Atlanta.

Their dedication was unmatched. We saw a 94% attendance rate, which exceeded our standard hiring stats. One of these employees, Nick, had served 20 years in prison. For him, this job was transformative:

“I went in as a line worker. Since then, I’ve been promoted three times. Now I have my own household, not just a place to stay. And there’s something so special about taking the gifts that people ordered and bringing them to fruition.”

Stories like Nick’s remind us of the profound impact employment can have, and we’re honored to be part of this journey. You can watch Nick’s entire story here.

Helping First Step succeed

Funding these efforts is no small feat. While First Step Staffing receives support from private foundations, communities play a pivotal role in sustaining their programs. Donors interested in workforce development and addressing homelessness contribute, helping individuals reach milestones like economic mobility and independence.

“We’re on a path to place 20,000 workers per year. And we’re looking for businesses to work with us.” – Amelia

We’re proud to work alongside First Step Staffing to help create a society where everyone – regardless of background or past struggles – has the opportunity to contribute and find fulfillment in their work.

Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of many who have been overlooked. Here’s to the caregivers, seen and unseen, who work every day to strengthen the fabric of our communities.

All the best,

Jim