Eighteen months ago, Christabelle was at a crossroads in life. She came to the United States from her home country of Haiti and discovered a place to grow when she was hired as an associate at Deseret Industries. 

“It is a good experience,” Christabelle says of her job. “In my country, I didn’t have an opportunity to work hard.” 

Christabelle is now working to improve her English to open doors to more opportunities. Her English skills were strong enough when she arrived in the United States that she was above the levels of classes available in the area. Nevertheless, she has taken advantage of every chance to speak the language. 

“I practice with my family—my mother, my brother, my uncle,” Christabelle says. “I also use English at the grocery store or when paying a bill.” 

As she has settled into her role, Christabelle has looked for ways to improve her English through the DI job training program. 

“I enjoy speaking with my manager, my coworkers, and any customer,” Christabelle says. “Sometimes I say, ‘I don’t speak English very well, but I can try to understand what you need.’ It’s good practice for me.”

The job training program has allowed Christabelle to strengthen other important workplace skills and behaviors. She has received job search support, improved her collaborative approach, and learned how to work with a team. 

“DI is good for me because they help me to look for a new job,” Christabelle says. “They help me to not be shy, and they help me to communicate with many people.” 

Perhaps most importantly, Christabelle’s experience at Deseret Industries has helped her to build greater confidence in herself. 

“Sometimes I am afraid to speak with anybody,” she shares. “But here at DI, they can help you to know what you can do.” 

Christabelle uses her abilities to contribute in many ways, but what truly stands out is her gift for brightening other people’s days. 

“Many people can see when I’m happy because I have a big smile when I come to work,” Christabelle says. “I have a smile when I work too.” 

You can support DI associates like Christabelle by donating gently used items to your local Deseret Industries. All donations directly support the DI job training program, allowing associates to gain valuable skills and build brighter futures.