October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Workers with disabilities can provide employers with skilled, dedicated, and loyal employees. MassHire Holyoke reminds the business community about these talented workers and that they are an important component of a diverse workforce. The National Disability Employment Awareness Month official 2024 theme is “Access to Good Jobs for All.” Good jobs matched with a talented and diverse workforce most often leads to success and profitability!
Employment Network Services is Now Available!
We are excited to announce that MassHire Holyoke is now an Employment Network offering support through the Ticket to Work program! This program is for SSI/SSDI qualifying participants ages 18-64 who aim to move toward full-time work and eventually transition away from Social Security disability benefits. If you’re interested in learning more about how we can assist you on your employment journey, please visit our website, where you'll find additional resources and contact information: Ticket To Work – MassHire Holyoke Career Center.
We will be hosting our first virtual information session on October 31st at 1:30 PM. To sign up, please call our main number at 413-534-4900 and ask reception to register you, or fill out the form on our website. We look forward to helping you explore new employment opportunities!
Watch an Introduction of Ticket to Work
Watch an Introduction of Ticket to Work in ASL
Counselor Corner
Cover letters are an important part of your job search process. They provide an opportunity to showcase your personality, communication skills, and enthusiasm for the position. While your resume focuses on qualifications and experience (what I’ve done), a cover letter tells the story behind them, allowing you to explain why you're a strong fit for the role and how your background aligns with the company’s goals (why you want to interview me). It’s also a chance to highlight specific achievements, address any gaps in your resume, and demonstrate that you’ve researched the organization. A well-written cover letter can make a memorable impression and distinguish you from other candidates. The walk in counseling team at MassHire Holyoke are available to critique your cover letters and help you gain confidence when writing them.
Employee Highlight
Wanda Fernandez-Rivera is a dedicated job developer and disability specialist known for her commitment to helping all job seekers find meaningful employment. She currently works with our Talent Bank customers and will be an integral part of our re-invigorated Ticket to Work program. Wanda excels in connecting customers with opportunities that match their skills and helping employers find their next hire and ability to build strong relationships with employers and advocate for her MassHire Holyoke customer makes her a standout in her field. Wanda's passion for making a difference in her community and her willingness to always ask the right questions makes her a valuable asset to our team and her smile when she helps someone secure a job lights up our entire office!
