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In 2022, UGM Vocational Advancement Manager Matt Moznette reached out to the Davenport Hotels hoping to establish a business practicum partnership. During these practicums, recovery participants gain valuable on-the-job experience.
Anna Dryer, Complex Human Resources Manager at the Davenport Hotels, responded by saying, “Absolutely. We want to…use the opportunities that [the Davenport Hotels] have as a way to help support residents…get back into the workplace and have a successful career.”
After that, a group of staff members from the Davenport Hotels made a visit to the nearby UGM Men’s Shelter. This experience gave them a glimpse into life at the Mission and provided the opportunity for them to interact with residents.
“We've always known that UGM has a very positive reputation [and believes] every single person matters as an individual.”
– Anna Dryer, Davenport Hotels
“Knowing the investment that UGM has” is what compelled the Davenport to participate in the program, Anna said. “We've always known that UGM has a very positive reputation [and believes] every single person matters as an individual.”
When a resident expresses interest in completing a business practicum at the Davenport, they visit with Matt to see the work environment, meet the team, and learn about the role. Some residents who choose to fulfill their hours at the Davenport have been hired into long-term positions as they transition out of their UGM practicums. “That’s been very exciting, very rewarding to witness.”
Joseph, in Phase 5 of the UGM Life Recovery program, completed his business practicum at the Davenport Hotels. Today, he works full time for the company and has found healing through being an employee. “I’m really living my life with purpose, with real feeling, with real care, and real struggles,” Joseph shared. He has unexpectedly shared his testimony with some of his coworkers, finding a sense of freedom in vulnerability and being received with kindness and compassion.
“I’m really living my life with purpose, with real feeling, with real care, and real struggles.”
A core value of the Davenport Hotels is “serving others with love” which is demonstrated through genuine care for and investment in the lives of UGM residents. “UGM offering hope is something that we really wanted to be a part of. Everyone needs that hope, right? It’s very much a privilege for our team…to have a small role in giving a little bit of that hope.”
“It’s very much a privilege for our team…to have a small role in giving a little bit of that hope.”
Thank you, Davenport Hotels, and our other local business partners, for warmly welcoming UGM residents onto your team and for recognizing the immense value they bring through their contributions. Your partnership offers them a pathway toward new life.
If you’re interested in learning how your business can partner with UGM, call Danny Beard (509.532.3855), UGM Director of Strategic Partnerships.
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