A Goodbye

If you were to walk down any street in the Tenderloin, stop a person at random and ask them “Do you know Leigh James”, the most immediate response would be an ear-to-ear grin and an exclamatory “of course!”.  For the past 3 years, Leigh has been at the head of the job search department at the St. Anthony Foundation.  She has helped countless members of the community prepare resumes and cover letters, learn interview techniques and secure jobs.

Last week marked Leigh’s last days at St. Anthony’s.  It is difficult to measure her influence and impact on the clients she has had over the years.  As the Program Assistant at the front desk of the Tenderloin Technology Lab for the last 4 months, I have been able to speak at length with clients who have worked directly with Leigh.  The most common descriptions I have heard are ‘dedicated’, ‘personable’, ‘meticulous’ and ‘on top of it’.  You can tell that people have gotten more out of their time with Leigh than simply a resume or a job search tip; they have found inspiration, someone who is willing to take the time and energy to help them.

Ultimately, this is what St. Anthony represents.  Larger than the sum of it’s parts, it’s programs and services, it is about empowering the individual through community bonds. In this regard, Leigh has left a very large pair of shoes to fill.   The Foundation, it’s employees and it’s clients, wish Leigh the best of luck on her journey.