Keepin' the Faith: Job Searchers Need Support

There's great news to share as we see unemployment figures dropping and other signs of revitalization in our economy. However, when you're the one who's unemployed, those cheerful figures may not amount to much. That's why it's so important to "keep the faith" while on a job search. And part of keepin' the faith is getting some spiritual support.

Gary United Methodist Church and First Presbyterian Church of Wheaton continue to offer monthly support meetings for those who are in career transition with the "Between Successes Career Ministry," hosted monthly at Gary UMC. This faith-based ministry is open to all and each meeting includes introductions, a spiritual message and a guest speaker. The group meets at 7:00 p.m. on the third Monday of each month in the Hadley Chapel at Gary UMC, 224 N. Main Street in Wheaton (entrance on the west side of the church). 

Next week on Monday, Feb. 20, "Between Successes" will feature guest speaker Rick Curry, vice president of global human resources for lia sophia, an international direct marketing jewelry business. Rick will present "From the Eyes of an Expert," sharing from his own experience as well as his professional expertise in HR, offering insights about using job boards, networking strategies and success tips for landing and keeping a job.

As a member of lia sophia’s Executive Committee, Rick works to identify and implement Human Resources initiatives that will advance and fulfill the Company’s mission, strategy and values.  In this role he creates and maintains HR infrastructure for lia sophia employees in Canada, China, Germany, Switzerland, UK, and the USA.  The scope of his duties include international staffing, employee relations, total compensation, health & retirement plans, Human Resources Information Systems, and management training & development.

Prior to joining lia sophia  Rick led the Human Resources functions for NICOR National, NICOR Enerchange, Alexander Lumber Co., and served as the Director of  Human Resources for divisions within Fortune 500 organizations such as Hilton Hotels, Budget Rent a Car, and United Airlines/Mileage Plus.   He served as the President of the Board of the Directors for the Valley Human Resources Association from June 2007 to May 2009.   

Rick earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from DePaul University, in Chicago, as well as a Masters in Organizational Development from the University of West Florida in Pensacola.  He is a Senior Human Resources Professional designated through the Human Resources Certification Institute.

For anyone in the midst of a career transition, whether you're unemployed or seeking a new job while still working, support is key to making a change. Whether you come to "Between Successes" or you visit one of the many job clubs or other church groups in the area, make sure to surround yourself with people who support you on this journey. You'll be glad you did.