It was a rainy May day in Washington, DC, the kind of morning that makes you want to stay curled up inside. But for eleven determined clients, it was a day to step forward, toward something brighter, something new. 

Inside the gleaming downtown offices of Accenture, the mood was anything but gloomy. My Sister’s Place (MSP), in partnership with Accenture, hosted its 2025 in-person Workforce Development Fair, a day about offering opportunity. About new chapters. About the community. 

“This event provided an opportunity for clients seeking to increase their income and/or transition careers to connect directly with employers,” Kayla, an advocate for MSP clients, shared. 

The setting was intentionally calm, unlike the usual hustle and noise of traditional job fairs. Instead, each vendor table was thoughtfully arranged to foster genuine connection. 

 No long lines. No rush. Just steady, open conversations between clients and employers who saw not just résumés, but the people behind them. 

“I believe community made this event successful,” said Javonte. “The clients, vendors, advocates, and everyone else who came out to support the betterment of clients. Community is important in the work we do because we all need a helping hand at some point and we all need community.” 

One mother even attended with her young daughter in tow, determined not to miss the chance to speak directly with employers. As Kayla shared, “A client shared that although she had to have her daughter present during this event, it did not deter her from attending. She expressed that the information provided by the employers was exceptional and that she is looking forward to participating in more events in the future.” 

Community as the Cornerstone  

With care and intention, Ricardo matched each employer with MSP clients whose goals and skills aligned. Employers like DC Fire & EMS, Hope Project, and Stoddard Baptist Global Care were ready to engage, interview, and hire. 

The results spoke volumes. 

By the end of the day, 7 interviews had been conducted, 6 job offers were pending, and 1 client had already received a full-time offer. Three more were placed in educational assignments, critical steps on the journey to long-term careers. 

Not Just Jobs—Futures 

“The job fair offered preparation for re-entering the workforce, interview practice, and long-term career options that support self-sufficiency,” said Stephanie, an MSP advocate. One client even discovered she was qualified to apply to DC’s fire department, a moment that sparked immediate action. “She’s already started her application,” Stephanie added. 

Transformation was happening before our eyes.  

Cassie, MSP’s Volunteer and Engagement Manager, was moved by the simplicity and power of face-to-face interaction: “Nothing beats the opportunity to hand your resume to your potential future employer and have a conversation. So much of the employment game now is AI, ATS, and computerized filtering… not everyone has the time, or ability (or patience if we’re being honest to tackle that.” 

For Cassie, it was a grounding experience: “As the Volunteer and Engagement Manager, this was such a lovely opportunity to meet some of our clients and really get an ear to the ground on how my role can best support them.” 

A Space That Speaks 

From the sleek layout to the quiet spots where advocates could meet with clients one-on-one, every detail of the fair was designed to restore a sense of control and possibility. 

“The layout was spacious, the services provided for snacks and quick pick-me-ups added a personal touch to brighten the day,” said LeTrese. “It was a great experience.” 

Yes, there were challenges. Parking was difficult for some, and a few clients couldn’t attend because of it. But the weather couldn’t dampen what happened inside and outside the fair. 

As LeTrese reflected, “Despite the parking concerns and the gloomy weather, MSP’s 2025 in-person Career Fair was a success. I truly look forward to the next one.” 

And even for clients who couldn’t attend in person, Ricardo was still able to connect them with vendors, many of whom were eager to hold spots, a testament to Ricardo’s dedication and professionalism as well as the shared hope and belief in the strength of community. 

The Path Forward 

The success of the 2025 Workforce Development Fair wasn’t in the numbers alone, though they were promising. It was the confidence instilled in clients by their advocates right before entering the conference room. It was the spark in a mother’s eye when she saw her worth reflected back in an employer’s interest. It was the sense of being truly seen and finally coming to terms with a new independent and empowered future.  

Because a huge part of healing is about opportunity, and opportunity requires access, belief, and connection. 

To everyone who helped make the day a success, Accenture, MSP staff, employer partners, and the clients who showed up with courage and hope, thank you.  

Special Thank You to Accenture 

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Accenture, a long-standing and invaluable partner of My Sister’s Place. Their unwavering support over the years has made a meaningful impact on the lives of the survivors we serve. We are especially grateful for their generosity in hosting a recent event for our clients, a gesture that exemplifies their ongoing commitment to our mission. 

Thank you, Accenture, for standing with survivors and supporting My Sister’s Place throughout the years. Your partnership continues to make a difference. 

Special Thank You to Employers and Partners Who Made It Possible: 

This event would not have been the same without each organization’s willingness to engage deeply and support survivors on their journey toward stability and independence. Your continued partnership reminds us that we are stronger together, and together, we created something truly meaningful. 

DC Fire & EMS
Metropolitan Special Police Force
Hands on Dental
Hope Project
MedStar Washington Hospital Center
All Medical Personnel
Stoddard Baptist Global Care
Dudley Beauty School
MedCerts 

A heartfelt thank you to the incredible employers and partners who made our Workforce Development Fair possible. Your time and commitment to connecting with our clients created a space of empowerment that we cannot be more grateful for. 

By the Numbers: 

For anyone who would like to support our work in empowering survivors of domestic violence in D.C. you may donate to My Sister’s Place, sign up to volunteer, or email us about setting up domestic violence training in your community. Help us end the cycle of domestic violence and empower everyone to build healthy lives and relationships.