Project Ezrah helped me land a dream job. I wish more people knew about it so they too could benefit. Free to the community, the organization helps individuals regarding anything job related.

I am not the first person in history to be laid off, but after having worked full time for 21 straight years, it was certainly the first time in my personal history. Knowing that others have been in the same boat wasn’t necessarily a comfort. Compounding the situation, my family and I had moved to New Jersey two years ago from a midsize Midwestern city—and the cost of living here, along with inflation, wasn’t making the situation any more palatable.

Thankfully, a friend suggested that I check into something called Project Ezrah, a Jewish organization that helps individuals in all aspects related to jobs, not just when someone is laid off. And it’s all free. I found the organization online (www.ezrah.org) and reached out. I was paired with Jeff Mendelson, who mentored me in so many ways, with practical methods such as creating a spreadsheet to keep track of my applications, what to say during an interview, when to follow up and how to approach salary, to name only a few.

The representative from Ezrah was not only professional but a total mensch—he really cared and was responsive throughout the entire process. I also appreciated that his outlook aligned to my Jewish values, especially when it comes to seeing the big picture: It’s all in God’s hands and “Tract gut vet zein gut,” “Think good and it will be good.” Thank God, I landed an amazing job.

Whether you still have a job but are considering new opportunities, or you’re struggling at your current job, or you find yourself in my predicament, or anything related to a job, I want to let the community know that there is an organization that can help.

Josh B.

Passaic