A Path So Bright



Creation Date: 11/10/2025


Name: Ari Taylor
Career Pathway: Marketing, Sales and Services
Location of Service: 61107-3242
Program: DHS Youth
Organization: Boys and Girls Club of Rockford

Program Details

Impacted Geographical Area: State (Illinois)


After facing challenges in her job search and encountering employers who were unable to hire at the time, Ms. Ari Taylor joined our Boys & Girls Club RockForce Workforce Development Program in July 2025. Although she knew she wanted to build her employability skills, she wasn’t quite sure where to begin. From day one, Ari brought enthusiasm and a genuine desire to grow.

Working closely with our Workforce Navigators, Ari met weekly and participated actively in workforce development sessions. Through hands-on activities, she strengthened key employability skills such as effective communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. She also gained valuable experience in interview preparation, resume building, and navigating workplace challenges.

By August 2025, Ari secured a part-time position at Culver’s, where she quickly excelled. Her success there opened new doors, and by November, she joined our Boys & Girls Club team as a Resource Development Administrative Assistant. In this role, Ari has been able to explore exciting new areas, including fund development, marketing, and volunteer management within the nonprofit sector.

Despite facing transportation challenges, unanswered job applications, and periods of uncertainty, Ari’s perseverance never wavered. She remained determined, positive, and focused on her goals. Through our workforce program, she also found strong support — including mentorship, access to workforce training, and wraparound services that helped bridge gaps and keep her on track.

Ari Taylor shines brightly within our Workforce Development Program, and we are excited to see where her journey takes her next!