TradeMark Properties takes its core values seriously, and Community is one of those values. When a friend and business associate mentioned Raleigh Rescue Mission to CEO Jim Harris, Jim knew right away there was an opportunity to turn a standard business contract into tangible action and service to the Raleigh community.
“I give all credit to (CEO) John Luckett,” says Jim graciously. “We were already supporting the Mission in a few ways, but it was John’s idea to further the relationship by us teaching applicable job skills to staff and clients as part of our maintenance contract.”
Jim turned things over to Amy Carroll, President/Principal at TradeMark Properties, who gave life to the concept and put together a process that allows their Maintenance Technician Bill Smith to consistently spend four hours a week at the Mission. Bill fulfills the formal obligations of the maintenance agreement while training and working alongside two former clients who are now highly regarded employees at the Mission. They readily seek Bill’s advice and collaborate with him on the condition of the facilities, needed repairs, vendor proposals and budgeting. Their own skills are growing, and they enthusiastically share their knowledge with clients who are interested in a maintenance career.
“Every time I go over there,” says Bill, “these guys have a list ready for me. We avoid surprises and they hop on things ahead of schedule. I meet with the COO and Mr. Luckett weekly. With a planned capital improvement schedule, we’re able to be more proactive, and we’re able to be good stewards of the funds we have to work with. Everyone is so cheerful and appreciative there – it’s refreshing.”
The process is off to a good start. COO Steve Perdue agrees: “Bill is expert at connecting us with outside vendors and resources. They respond to him quickly. He’s helping our maintenance team strategize and prioritize.” The long-term goal is for Maintenance to become a solid addition to the various vocational training programs already offered at the Mission – programs like food service and office administration. Clients who enter the New Life Plan and graduate from Jobs for Life are then ready for employment, equipped with confidence, soft skills, and practical skills needed to get and keep a sustainable job.
Amy Carroll sums up TradeMark Properties’ involvement this way: “Serving the community is incredibly important to TradeMark Properties. We embrace the opportunity to serve Raleigh Rescue Mission. We’ve been impressed at the variety of support the clients receive, and we’re grateful to play a small part.”
If you or your organization are interested in hiring our amazing, multi-talented clients for your open positions, or if you have an idea for an apprenticeship program where you work, contact Chris Hill, Director of Aftercare, at puevfu@enyrvtuerfphr.bet.
