Organization: Reconcile New Orleans
Title: Education & Employment Specialist
Nominated by: Monique Robinson, Co-worker
Toya Crosby embodies the essence of dedication, passion, and excellence in her role at Reconcile New Orleans. What truly sets her apart is her unique ability to build authentic relationships with the students she works with. She doesn’t just mentor or educate; she connects on a personal level, creating a supportive and empowering environment for young adults striving to build a better future. Toya’s commitment to these relationships is unwavering, and her presence brings a sense of stability and trust to the environment. From Word of the Day check-ins to one-on-one career coaching, students know they can rely on her without any unwelcome surprises. Toya cares about delivering the highest quality programming and education. She’s focused on the big-picture strategy and goals of the organization but also pays meticulous attention to the finer details. Her organizational skills are impeccable, and she continuously seeks to improve her practices, making sure that routine activities are managed with maximum efficiency and effectiveness.
One of Toya’s recent achievements has been expanding Reconcile’s employer partner portfolio by an impressive 50%. This means more employment placements for graduates and a greater impact on their lives. But Toya’s contribution goes beyond numbers. She has also integrated mentorship and career exploration opportunities into the training programs, ensuring that the interns get a well-rounded experience that extends beyond traditional job placement. Reconcile has become a hub for career development, and employers now frequently visit not just for meals in the Café but also to engage with the students through Career Days, workshops, and Behind the Business Tours. Toya plays a pivotal role in coordinating these initiatives, making Reconcile a dynamic space for both personal and professional growth.
For the Catalyst Kitchens’ Southeast Regional Summit, Toya actively recruited employers and served as a panelist. She shared that for Reconcile, employer engagement is not merely transactional but rather an asset to the employer’s workforce. Her insights on establishing successful employer relationships and the significance of wrap-around services in supporting young adults during their transition into sustainable employment left a lasting impact on the audience.
Toya’s impact extends far beyond her role, touching the lives of students and fostering meaningful relationships with employers to create sustainable employment opportunities. Her work embodies the core values of Reconcile New Orleans and is a shining example of professionalism with a personal touch that drives positive change. We believe she is a deserving candidate for the David Carelton Catalyst for Change Award.
