My name is Jessica Reyes, for over five years I’ve had the privilege of working at Gordon Food Service, the largest family-operated broad-line food distribution company in North America. I have worn several hats during my time here but currently serve as a member of our North American Diversity Equity and Inclusion Team. As a DEI Specialist, I support the development and implementation of different DEI-focused initiatives and programs, but most significantly Kindred—a program with the mission to create an inclusive and equitable work environment that welcomes long-term employability for forcibly displaced persons at Gordon Food Service. This program develops and supports initiatives that help individuals become self-sufficient in their new home country.
This program is not just a commitment for our organization but a shared passion among many of our employees. My passion stems from my upbringing; as a daughter of Mexican immigrants, this work is near and dear to my heart and deeply personal. Throughout my life, I’ve witnessed firsthand the sacrifices made and the resilience that is required to face the challenges that come with starting over somewhere new, oftentimes with nothing. It has provided me with a deeper understanding of how meaningful the work we are accomplishing through Kindred is.
We aim to empower displaced persons by offering job opportunities, access to resources, and support that help new Americans overcome barriers they face as they work towards self-sufficiency. Our teams engage in community events, allowing them the opportunity to make a significant impact–not just in the workplace, but in their communities as well. Collaborating with New American Pathways and their team has played a crucial role in helping us achieve these goals. Through their support and guidance, we’ve identified key talent and improved the program. We have been able to hire numerous refugees who have proven to be valuable members of our team. Our commitment to growing our program has only deepened as we continue to see the positive impact that refugee hires have on our business.
There is no doubt that navigating the complexities of supporting these individuals on their journey is no easy task; each has a unique set of challenges, and finding tailored solutions to ensure their success requires constant adaptability and understanding. The tangible impact, along with the fulfillment felt when seeing individuals we support achieve their goals and thrive, makes it all worthwhile. When they succeed, we succeed, and it reinforces the importance of these programs and partnerships like the one we’ve developed with New American Pathways.