Tess Champoux, Staffing Coordinator (center in photo)
Parent organization: Community Action Pioneer Valley
Staffing business began: 2007
Job seeker focus: People with disabilities, Returning citizens, People experiencing homelessness, Young adults, Veterans, Long-term unemployed, People with language barriers, People in recovery from addiction
Range of candidates managed weekly: 30-57
Staffing services: Temp, Temp-to-hire, Direct hire, Payrolling
Industries served: Manufacturing, Warehouse/logistics, Food Services, Administrative Support/Clerical
Priority goals in next year: We are continuing to work with a large population of workers in recovery and post-release from incarceration. We are working to strengthen coaching and training opportunities, and increase collaboration with other local organizations (community colleges, the sheriff's department, sober housing, etc.)
Biggest operating challenges: This year the small pool of available workers has been a challenge. Marijuana legalization in Massachusetts is also a challenge as many manufacturers still want a clean drug screen prior to hire and we cannot guarantee that our clients will pass a drug test when they are called in to interview.
What about your business makes you most proud? We believe in the dignity of everyone who comes through our doors, no matter what their situation is.