Special to the
Opelika Observer

On May 3, five local women were honored in a pinning ceremony held at the Epworth Center of Auburn United Methodist Church.
The event marked the completion of 24 sessions and 140 graduates of Christian Women’s Job Corps of Lee County. This session’s graduates included Soonyoung An, Brandi Davison, Nydia Gipson, Nhung Le (Amy) and Young Jae Lee. The five participants were “guided” by community volunteers Sandy Poe, Colleen Alsobrook, Amory Scott, Brenda Ramage and Jane Huntley.
Guides worked with their mentees weekly on making “Action Boards” where they established and monitored personal and career goals identifying specific steps or “actions” they would take as they worked toward reaching those goals. The theme for this session was taken from Ecclesiastes 4:12, “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
Those attending the ceremony viewed a DVD presentation of highlights of the 10 week session. Nine weeks included classes such as Computers, Communications, Budgeting, Health and Wholeness, Leadership Fundamentals, I Can, I Will, I Did, Living from the Inside Out, Career Direction, Money Smart, Bible Study and more. During week 10, internships were provided by Arbor Springs, Auburn City School Transportation Department, Auburn Jr. High School and City of Auburn Community Development.
During the pinning ceremony, Director of Lee County CWJC Neeley Caldwell challenged the graduates to live in community supporting each other as they exemplify the three stands of a strong cord “not quickly broken.”
Each graduate identified her “three strands” naming her own effort and support system as the first strand. The second strand included instructors, CWJC volunteers, and Guides. God’s power, love, and presence in their lives makes the essential third strand to forge a rope-like cord.
“I have completed my resume, cover letter and my application,” said one graduate about their experiences at CWJC. “CWJC also gave me knowledge of interview tips and mock interview practices, which helped my understanding more about what to say and not to say at an interview… I believe that I am ready to start my career with all the confidence and skills I have gained at CWJC. I hope I can be successful and be a great role model for my children.”
Following participant speeches, pinning, and presentation of certificates, all in attendance were invited to a reception honoring the graduates. For more information on becoming a participant, volunteer, or supporter of Christian Women’s Job Corps® of Lee County, contact Neeley Caldwell at 334-821-0591, 334-524-5529, or neeley@cwjclc.com. The Fall Session will begin in September.
Graduates in photo: Soonyoung An, Nydia Gipson, Brandi Davison, Nhung Le (Amy) and Young Jae Lee.