Towards Employment

Congratulations to this past workshops graduates! We're thrilled to continue to see you shine throughout your career pathway.

Interested in learning more about what being a TE Alumni? Sign up here: https://towardsemployment.jotform.com/form/231836583994068

Today, we celebrate Juneteenth—a powerful reminder of freedom, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of opportunity in our communities. It marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in the United States learned of their freedom, more than two years after it was declared.

At Towards Employment, we believe in a dynamic world of work where all people - regardless of race, justice system involvement, or where they live - have an opportunity to thrive.

Juneteenth challenges us to reflect on the work still ahead—to create systems that open doors rather than close them, to advance economic mobility, and to ensure that access to opportunity is truly available for all.

As we honor this important day, we recommit ourselves to empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and advancing a future where everyone has the chance to thrive.

Towards Employment offices will be CLOSED on June 19, 2026 in observance of Juneteenth.

Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and is a time to reflect, celebrate freedom, and honor Black history and culture. ❤️💛💚

We will resume normal business hours on Mon, June 22.

We are especially proud to celebrate Jill Rizika, Towards Employment's CEO, who was recognized as one of ten Women of Achievement by the Cleveland YWCA. She was honored among an exceptional group of Northeast Ohio women leaders who are leading through impact, service, and innovation.
Congratulations to all this year's honorees, and thank you to YWCA Greater Cleveland for elevating the work of women making a difference in our community!

"Different in style but united in purpose, Carol and Stella became the perfect balance their students needed." Last month, they were officially recognized at Cleveland Play House as a part of "Mighty Together" - a community photo exhibit inspired by "Freak the Mighty" and dedicated to celebrating real-life friendships across Cleveland.

"For over a decade, they lifted others and stood by each other through every season, including illness, retirement, and beyond. A friendship built on respect, strength, and showing up."

Towards Employment is honored to have such incredible staff members over our 50 years of serving Clevelanders! Congratulations and thank you to Stella Shepard and Carol Dove!

Another amazing night at Progressive Field with our incredible volunteers at Towards Employment's concession stand during a Cleveland Guardians game!

We're grateful for the energy, dedication and teamwork that make these opportunities possible while supporting our mission of helping Clevelanders find meaningful careers.
A special thank you to our CEO, Jill Rizika, for joining us and spending the evening alongside our volunteers!

Thank you to everyone who came out and made it a successful night. Let's hit it out of the park again!

Couldn't make it to the game but still want to support? Learn more about ways you can give back to Clevelanders here: https://www.towardsemployment.org/give/

Shout out to U.S. Bank - your support of TE's career pathway helps us campion career opportunities for all workers.

Thank you to Fifth Third Bank for continuing to believe in our mission and vision. Your grant will continue to lift up Clevelanders!

Thank you to the incredible KeyBank volunteers for making Neighbors Make A Difference Day a success! From gardening to assembling motivational packs, writing inspirational notes for participants, and organizing TE's clothing closet - your commitment and hard work really brightened our space. Having neighbors in this community who care really make the difference!

A big thank you to Bank of America for their generous support of TE's career pathway. Your grant will give Clevelanders the chance to advance!