Apr 8, 2025

Building a New Life: Zhuangzhi’s Experience at the Humanitarian Center

Zhuangzhi’s journey from mainland China to the United States has been marked by dedication and a desire to improve his life and the lives of his family. Zhuangzhi has been working at the Latter-day Saint Humanitarian Center for the past four months after working at Deseret Industries and participating in the DI job training program

“I came to the Humanitarian Center to learn English,” Zhuangzhi says. “I look forward to learning the language so I can work, serve, and lead.” 

To help him reach this goal, Zhuangzhi participates in the Humanitarian Center’s English learning class every morning—a crucial part of his daily routine. The English program is designed to help associates improve their language skills, which are essential for both personal and professional growth.  

Associates spend four hours each day in classes as part of their paid working shift, where they receive instruction tailored to their proficiency levels. 

Zhuangzhi is not only learning English at the Humanitarian Center—he is also developing important workplace behaviors and skills through the job training program. Just like at Deseret Industries, this program provides associates with valuable experience to prepare them for better employment opportunities.

A refugee associate working with letters at a Humanitarian center in Salt Lake City

In his role, Zhuangzhi is responsible for weighing clothes so that they can be bailed by his team lead. His careful work ensures that the clothing is properly prepared for distribution. 

“I really like this job,” Zhuangzhi shares. “I am thankful for being given this chance.” 

Before coming to the United States, Zhuangzhi owned a clothing store in mainland China. His entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic have carried over to his new life in the United States. 

Zhuangzhi is very proud of his family, which includes his daughter, her husband, and their three children—two granddaughters and a grandson. His wife also works at the Humanitarian Center, and together they are building a better future for their family. 

Learn more about the job training program and its impact on people like Zhuangzhi and his family by visiting our Latter-day Saint Humanitarian Center webpage.