Oakland Planning and Development Corporation (OPDC) works to build a better Oakland where neighbors thrive. Emily Kraybill, a current PULSE fellow, works with OPDC’s JobLinks program. She helps Oakland-based employers find job seekers to fill their open positions and she assists job seekers as they navigate the job application process.
Bryan Perry, the assistant director for workforce and strategy, reflected on how PULSE fellows have positively impacted OPDC. Two PULSE fellows have worked for the organization.
SA: Why did your organization decide to work with PULSE?
Perry: PULSE fellows have a reputation for being well-prepared, amiable, and ready to take on multiple projects simultaneously. They are motivated, flexible, and willing to serve others. For us, working with PULSE is a smart way to test possible future positions for our organization, and a good value.
SA: What do you like most about your current PULSE fellow?
Perry: Our current PULSE fellow, Emily Kraybill, has added capacity to our JobLinks program, and by networking with other professionals in this sector, is helping our clients find work that matches their skill sets. She’s developing a mock interview process to bolster our existing offerings, and is helping test new processes for client flow.
SA: How has your partnership with PULSE impacted your organization?
Perry: Our PULSE fellows work hard, offer new ideas and perspectives, and engage our clients in friendly, respectful ways. They are gracious and committed, and ready to pitch in wherever we ask.
SA: What is the most rewarding part of working with PULSE?
Perry: At OPDC, we like that PULSE fellows draw on their experience living in community to bring energy to tasks at hand. Because PULSE surrounds its representatives with training opportunities and cares for their growth and development, we get well-rounded, energetic people that are far more engaged than short-term interns.
SA: What would you tell other Pittsburgh nonprofits about PULSE?
Perry: Working with PULSE is a smart way to bring value, build capacity, and draw on youthful energy as you grow your programs. Chris Cooke, the executive director of PULSE, and Mo Copeland, the program coordinator for PULSE, are thoughtful, dedicated, and strive to match the right person to your organization.
Story by PULSE Alumna Sara Alvarez.
Read more stories about the Nonprofit Partner experience with PULSE. If you would like to learn more about a Nonprofit Partnership, please visit our Partner Page.