My Dream Job At Starfish Project
NOV 15, 2022
Fall has turned to Winter and all shopping, even grocery shopping, has magically turned into gift shopping. (It’s not just us, right?) As the holiday season approaches, we’d love to introduce you to our Distribution Center superstar, Esther, who makes sure each and every Starfish Project gift gets to you and your loved ones.
Here is Esther’s Starfish Project Story:
Meet Esther from our Goshen, Indiana, Distribution Center
I'm the distribution coordinator for Starfish Project. Generally speaking, this means I wear multiple hats, and I take care of shipping needs and customer service and assist/train our volunteer staff.
"Being part of this critical work has been healing for me."
When the opportunity arose for me to apply to Starfish Project, I jumped on it. I heard about the company and its work 15 years ago and didn’t want to miss this opportunity. As a survivor of sexual assault myself, I connected with the vision and mission of Starfish Project. At the time of my assault, I felt I had no resources or support. So working on the Starfish Project team that gives hope and opportunities to women who have endured far more and provides them with the resources they need to escape such hardship is very personal.Being part of this critical work has been healing for me.
"You may wonder if people who work with jewelry try on everything and admire the pieces in front of mirrors and incredible lighting, well… we do!"
There are so many great perks here at Starfish Project. Our staff is a close-knit team of women with the same goals and a lot of compassion. Working with other women is encouraging and empowering – we hold each other up, and that's how we keep going even when times are hard. It probably goes without saying, but our jewelry is gorgeous too. Every day we are surrounded by beautifully designed pieces of art that we can wear to bring awareness to our cause. That in itself is a serotonin rush. You may wonder if people who work with jewelry try on everything and admire the pieces in front of mirrors and incredible lighting, well… we do! And we share those pieces with as many people as possible because we love to share the joy and hope they catalyze.
As a mom, balancing home and work life has always been hard to do at other organizations where I have worked. Yet, Starfish Project has made it so much easier by being flexible with my time so that I can take my children to doctor's appointments and school events. As a single mother, flexibility is one of the most important assets a company can provide. Starfish Project also pays a fair wage so that I can provide for my little family. Although I have gained many qualifications over the years, none of these are related to shipping. Starfish Project took a chance on me, so I will always strive to do my best for them.
"I love that my kids can participate in our incredible impact too."
My children love coming to the distribution center and volunteering. They feel welcome amongst the staff and other volunteers. They tell all their friends about our mission and take pride in being part of it. I love that my kids can participate in our incredible impact too.
I am beyond grateful for the opportunity Starfish Project has given me and excited for what I can give back. When people talk about a dream job, what they mean is a job where they have purpose, feel valued, and are respected. I have that, so working for Starfish Project has been my dream job.
When you shop holiday gifts at Starfish Project, know that Esther and her incredible team of volunteers in Goshen, Indiana package each with much appreciation for your partnership that provides dream jobs!
Esther's Favorites
