Gloria and Caryn traveled to New Hampshire to visit several Host Employers and participants this summer. It was a whirlwind trip through 8 towns, 10 Host Employers, 9 housing sites and 33 participants.
We stopped in Albany, NH to visit our Host Employer there. This is a wonderful remote “glampground” nestled in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Upon entering the welcome tent we encountered one of our participants who was tending the convenience shop onsite. She had nothing but positive things to say about her Host Employer and her experience. We then met with the Host Employer who gave us a tour of the entire campsite with further information about plans to expand.
Later we met with all of the other participants at their onsite housing. They live in a very spacious cabin with a large common area that houses a pool table. They showed us their living spaces and gushed about what a wonderful experience they’ve had. They explained that they are allowed to use all facilities when not on shift. They especially love the lake and all the water activities available to them. We provided participants with some Spirit swag and snapped some photos with the group.
The next day, we visited one of our Host Employers in North Conway. This is a “grand hotel.” We met with the onsite manager, who was able to take us to visit with participants who were on shift. We met with one in particular who was working the breakfast room. She indicated that she loved her job. She loves interacting with the guests and feels she is treated very well. She also likes that her housing is onsite.
We then met with another participant who was working a housekeeping shift. She is content with her program and is very happy that she lives onsite as well. We snapped photos with the participants and left some Spirit swag at the front desk for them. Lovely grand hotel.
Next we made our way to Lincoln, NH to visit one of our Host Employers there. We met with our contact and all of the participants. They were all on their way to a town fair but took the time to speak with us about their experiences. They were all extremely happy. They indicated that they’ve become very good friends and are sharing a great experience. They showed us pictures of a concert, The Weeknd, that they attended in Boston.
They indicated that their Host Employer helped them to book this wonderful experience and helped to coordinate transportation to Boston. After meeting with participants, the Host Employer gave us a tour of the facilities, which is a small amusement park, then took us to see both participant housing units. The Host Employer indicated that he is very grateful for these participants and this experience, as well.
It was a successful trip to a beautiful part of the country, where participants and Host Employers seem to be benefiting from the Work and Travel Program.