Blog

Public Service Committee Leads Job Search and Interview Skills Workshop at Metropolitan Ministries

Posted on Feb. 28, 2023  /  Public Service  /  0

By Heather Grzelka, APR

The Public Service Committee returned to Metropolitan Ministries on February 8 to host another resume review workshop. PRSA Tampa Bay has proudly been helping disadvantaged job seekers participating in the Metropolitan Ministries Life-Skills Program since 2019. 

Seven chapter members generously gave their time to support a two-hour workshop and coaching session that focused on job search strategies and interview skills. 

  • Danielle Bayard Jackson
  • Betty Carlin, APR
  • Steven Feldman
  • Heather Grzelka, APR 
  • Joseph Priest, APR
  • Kristine Rogowski, APR
  • Michelle Young


"Not only did I get a great sense of personal satisfaction from helping those at Metropolitan Ministries, I found the information and advice presented by my fellow PRSA volunteers to be especially inspirational and informative as I am currently going through my own job search," said PRSA Tampa Bay Chapter Volunteer Kristine Rogowski, APR.

While the committee had anticipated a larger turnout, the small number of attendees allowed our volunteers to provide a great deal of individualized support, thanks in part to being able to connect in person again.

PRSA members talking with resume review participants

“As convenient as virtual formats are, there's a distinct energy with in-person events like this.  These events are best-suited for open exchange of ideas and building upon one another's thoughts,” said Chapter Volunteer Steven Feldman. “And, especially when working with people early in their careers, the format allows for a greater sense of connection and empathy to come through, as opposed to hearing advice from a series of boxes on the screen.”

After learning about public relations, one participant even expressed interest in finding job opportunities within the field. Chapter volunteers gave pointers on how to build a portfolio and leverage real-world experience to their advantage. Danielle Bayard Jackson went the extra mile by staying late to provide additional information and support to an attendee who may become a future PRSA Tampa Bay member.

“Although our first focus at these sessions is helping the job seekers, I had an experience with my colleagues that was almost as rewarding as my experience with the job seekers,” said Joseph Priest, APR, Public Service Committee Chair. “The attendee turnout ended up being much less than expected, but everyone in our group was able to quickly pivot and readjust their presentations and planned one-on-one discussions to fit the smaller number of attendees, and in doing so, they were able to make the best of what could have been an awkward and unproductive situation. I feel so privileged to be able to work with professionals like these. Go PRSA Tampa Bay!”

The Public Service Committee is dedicated to leveraging the power of public relations to help deserving Tampa Bay organizations and people achieve their maximum potential. All chapter members are encouraged to get involved. Ideas for service projects are always welcome.

Please reach out to the Public Service Committee for more information.

Return to list

0 Comments