Jorden’s Story

Jorden turned to The Coffee Oasis for help gaining employment. She was dealing with some major medical and family challenges, trying to navigate life on her own without her parents. She had gotten in trouble with the law and was on probation. She had to go through the court process and was struggling to navigate that situation.

“I was very much lost and didn’t really have a direction in which I was headed, I wasn’t going to school to be something, I had to drop out due to my severe medical circumstances. My life really had no direction and I was a hot mess. I had no place where I felt like I belonged.”

She heard about The Coffee Oasis job training program from someone at church and a couple gave her a ride to the drop-in center. After hearing more about the program, she decided to sign up. She completed The Coffee Oasis job training classes, mock interview, and then interned at The Coffee Oasis Port Orchard Cafe in 2015. “When I started the internship, I really felt at home and felt like I had somewhere I could come.” About 4-5 months after her internship, she interviewed and was hired at The Coffee Oasis in April of 2016. 

Since then, Jorden has worked her way from an intern to a Café Manager.

“People ask me why I’m still with The Coffee Oasis 7-8 years later; it is because I don’t think I would be who I am or where I’m at in life if it wasn’t for The Coffee Oasis programs and the love and sense of belonging. It’s made such a difference in my life and navigating my challenges. I wouldn’t be the Jorden I am today.” 

Jorden loves music, exploring the outdoors–seeing the beauty that is naturally created, and being a soccer mom. “We’re going into our third year of soccer and it’s been so much fun to run around with the kids and cheer them on.” She desires to make a meaningful difference in the world–wherever that may be. “Whether that be here at The Coffee Oasis or in Haiti helping sex trafficking victims. I want to do something to help people. My faith is a very strong reason for that, I want to show the love of Jesus to the world.”  

“The Coffee Oasis is an amazing place and really makes a difference in youth’s lives. It truly opens up possibilities for at-risk youth or youth who might not necessarily be the most productive citizens. It really opens up the possibility to be productive citizens. I feel like I’m actually a contributing member of the society and truly making a difference in the community working for Coffee Oasis.”

Gaining employment as a young person can be tough. Many youth are not equipped with the life skills and support needed to enter the workforce with confidence. Barriers such as underdeveloped social skills, criminal history, or lack of transportation often make it even more difficult.  They need education and work experience. Most of all they need opportunities to develop their skills and talents! 

The Coffee Oasis Youth Development Program offers youth and young adults (ages 16-25) the opportunity to develop their skills and talents through weekly job preparation classes, on-site barista training, and internships—in one of our cafes or with a local business. Friendly and caring Youth Development Workers offer youth help with building their resume, writing cover letters, pursuing education, and learning the skills they need to gain employment. 

Would you consider sponsoring a young person to receive job training through The Coffee Oasis Youth Development Program? $60 sponsors 1 job preparation course for 1 youth.