Claudia Mendoza started working as a porter at Upward Bound House, a homeless shelter in Santa Monica, over 10 years ago. Little did she imagine that she would become resident manager and develop a knack for apartment maintenance.
Five years into the job she was promoted to be the facility’s resident manager, serving as the first point of contact for residents, suppliers, vendors, and contractors.
Claudia was also given both janitorial and basic maintenance responsibilities. The latter, she had to learn on her own before deciding to take it a step further through JVS SoCal’s ApartmentWorks program.
“I heard about JVS SoCal through one of my coworkers and she referred me here,” explains Claudia, who also serves as the first point of contact for residents, suppliers, vendors, and contractors. “She said: ‘you’re a good worker, why not enhance your skills, build your resume, network and where you can grow and advance in your career.’”
The program, a no cost eight-week course, equips students with the technical skills and career-building knowledge to successfully secure a position as a Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT), whole guaranteeing interviews with leading employers—who are program partners—upon graduation.
Claudia highlights not only the skills that the program brings, but also the continued support of the instructors and her classmates.
“The instructor and the program manager were always there every day, with us. We were able to, in the classroom, collaborate, work together with all my student colleagues,” remembers Claudia.
Being able to broaden her skills in plumbing, electricity and appliance repairs, Claudia believes that her services will bring security to the residents. “They hardly have any family out here. Sometimes they come from out of state. They’re going through difficult times,” says Claudia, adding that her presence at the shelter provides a familiar face for the women and their children as they transition to permanent housing.
“I’m the common person, they see every day, they come to me for any issues in their units and I’m always able to help because I live on site.”
During her training, Claudia also received a grant to purchase her boots, uniforms and supplies needed to complete her training. She also got a box of tools, provided by ApartmentWorks partner Harbor Freight.
“That’s very important because tools are like a part of your hand”, said Claudia. That’s what we need in order to complete the jobs”.
While she enjoys serving the residents at her current facility, Claudia says she still has a goal to achieve.
“I really do want to get into working as a maintenance technician in a luxurious apartment with one of the employer partners that we have with JVS SoCal.”
If you’re inspired by Claudia Mendoza ‘s story and would like to help someone else achieve their dream, please donate today.