From The Circle Unbroken

Ernestine Taylor

In 2004, Ernestine Taylor found herself laid off from her job. In search of help, she went to Uptown Alliance, an employment-training agency. There she met Andrea Thompson Adam, who has helped train hundreds of women since arriving at the agency in 2004. Ernestine was a rather quiet person, but when she did say something, you would pay attention," Andrea remembers.

Like many women, Ernestine had become accustomed to setting her expectations lower than her actual ability. She could only envision her long-term future as a commercial housekeeper. The four-week training is designed to help not only build job skills, but to help women gain self-assurance and confidence in order to realize their own dreams. Ernestine worked hard to challenge herself, and by graduation she was singing a different tune.

"All the graduates have to stand in front of the audience and say a few words. Ernestine got up and said, "I thought I only wanted to be a housekeeper, but I want to be a supervisor or even a department manager," recalls Andrea.

For Ernestine, it marked a new beginning in the search for her own career. Ernestine was hired by the Marriott as a housekeeper approximately 16 months ago and was immediately respected due to her work ethic and outlook. Just as it seemed that she was on her way, things changed. "Ernestine is a fierce mother and protective of her children. Just a few months into her job, she was badly burned on her neck, arms and face. She sustained second and third degree burns while trying to protect her daughter and grandbaby from a burning stove," says Andrea.

The road to recovery took several months but during her absence the Marriott held her job. This was a testament to their belief in Ernestine's courage and ability. Recently Ernestine returned to work fulltime.

"She picked up extra shifts and took any extra work she could," says Andrea.

In October 2005, Ernestine earned Associate of the Month at the Marriott, and she became eligible for Associate of the Year. Despite the setback, Ernestine continues to be tenacious, unwilling to let anything get in the way for her goals. Andrea asked Ernestine to return to the Uptown Alliance and speak to new classes.

Was she nervous? Andrea laughs.

"Absolutely. At first I held her hand while she spoke. Now, she stands alone at the podium, telling her story."