“The Little Things Matter”: Creating Connections at MSP’s 2026 Career Fair
A conversation can lead to a connection. A connection can introduce a new career path. And sometimes, simply learning about the opportunities out there can change what someone imagines for their future.
That’s the energy Deidra Anderson, Temporary Workforce Development Specialist at My Sister’s Place, brought to this year’s Career Fair.
With more than 15 years of experience working with students, families, and nonprofits, Deidra knows there isn’t one “right” path forward.
“We can get burdened by what is beyond our control,” Deidra shared. Her approach is to help people identify the barriers in front of them, find ways to move them, and sometimes, “shift the mindset” around what might be possible.
More Than a Job Fair
For Deidra, the Career Fair wasn’t simply about walking in with a resume and walking out with a job. It was about creating a space where survivors could explore. “You’re networking. You’re meeting people who can help set you up for that next step,” she explained.
That next step looks different for everyone. It could mean meeting an employer, discovering a new industry, learning about a training program, or simply having a conversation that sparks passion or interest.
“We want people to experience a space where they are nurtured, taken care of, and valued,” Deidra said. “We are intentional about the employers we ask to join us and the space itself.”
“How Do I Get That Training?”
This year’s fair was generously hosted by Accenture. 34 survivors connected with 12 employers and community partners representing different industries and opportunities, including Careers in Nonprofits, D.C. Central Kitchen, the UDC Workforce Development and Lifelong Learning Career Services Department, Build the Future: International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, the Metropolitan Police Department, and Panera Bread — which left the day considering six attendees for open positions.
Deidra wants clients to ask questions, not only Who is hiring? but What does it take to get there?
“What training is required? How do you get that training? How do you pay for it?” she said. “A lot of times, it’s free, and you just don’t know it.”
Those conversations gave clients something valuable: options. And discovering an opportunity that isn’t right for you can be just as important. “Knowing what you don’t like is empowering,” Deidra shared. “Then you know when to say no.”
Confidence Starts with a Conversation
Networking can be intimidating for anyone. Part of MSP’s role is making sure clients don’t have to navigate the experience alone.
Deidra described how staff can help make an introduction or offer that extra encouragement: “Oh, go speak to them! I think you would be really great for a role there.” It may sound small, but those moments can help someone become more comfortable entering unfamiliar professional spaces, asking questions, and advocating for what they want.
“We want survivors to be confident in this space,” Deidra emphasized.
The fair was also intentionally designed with families in mind. While mothers met with employers, their children had a room of their own, with MSP staff watching over and playing with them just down the hall — so for a few hours, no one had to choose between finding a job and finding childcare.
This is how Deidra deliberately eliminates barriers faced by many of the clients MSP assists.
What Does Success Look Like?
Of course, MSP would love to see clients leave with interviews, leads, and employment opportunities. But that isn’t the only definition of a successful Career Fair.
“I want them to walk away feeling supported,” Deidra said. “I want them to have an enjoyable experience and walk away knowing that D.C. has a lot to offer.”
Maybe someone discovers a career they had never considered. Maybe they find out about free training. Maybe they make a professional connection. Or maybe they leave knowing a little more clearly what they don’t want — and feel more confident saying no to something that isn’t right for them. Each is a step forward.
“We All Have a Role”
Behind the Career Fair were MSP staff, community partners, employers, educators, and organizations working together to create opportunities for survivors.
Deidra describes herself as a “guiding light,” but is quick to recognize the many people who helped make the event possible. “There are lots of boats and ships that make it successful,” she said. And that sense of collective responsibility extends far beyond one event.
“We all have a role in that success, whether or not you are a part of the MSP community and not just this event,” Deidra shared. “We have to talk to each other and be present.”
Her final message is simple: “The little things matter.”
A conversation matters; an introduction matters; sharing a resource matters. Encouraging someone to walk across the room and introduce themselves matters. Because sometimes a small connection can be the beginning of a much bigger opportunity.
A tremendous thank you to Accenture for generously hosting this year’s Career Fair, and to every employer, partner, and survivor who made the day possible.
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