The Clean Team Workforce congratulates its Employee of the Month for August, Javon P.
After Javon’s European basketball career ended, he struggled to transition to life as a nine-to-five
worker. He worked but wasn’t satisfied with his life. He said, “I was miserable and didn’t know
who I was. I was frustrated.” His pay barely covered the rent and once his landlord raised the
monthly rate, Javon could not maintain his residence.
Javon decided to come to the Allentown Rescue Mission’s Emergency Shelter for a place to stay
at night while he continued to work during the day. While staying in the shelter, he met another
man in the same situation, and they agreed to move into an apartment together. Unfortunately,
Javon’s roommate lost his job and couldn’t pay his portion of the rent. So, Javon returned to the
Mission.
This time, Javon joined the Transformation Program. He particularly enjoyed the life skills and
workforce development classes. Javon learned that he struggled with two workplace values,
being prompt and ready to work. He realized he had to improve in these areas to be successful.
After graduating from the Transformation Program, Javon began working for the Clean Team
Workforce and implementing workplace values. He has been working hard and learning what
type of work suits his personality. He has learned that he enjoys physical work and has landed a
job in the housekeeping department of a local college. The position offers full benefits and
generous pay. Javon continues to work part-time for the Clean Team Workforce while working
full-time at the college.
Javon’s short-term plan is to save as much money as possible to afford an apartment in the
Lehigh Valley. Then once he becomes established, he would like to start a basketball camp for
young people. The Allentown Rescue Mission wishes Javon the best of luck in accomplishing
his goals.
