SERJobs

The voices behind the mission! ⭐️

Our Constructing Opportunity Luncheon gave us the opportunity to hear from inspiring leaders and community voices who continue to champion opportunity through their work.

This post highlights two of our SERJobs members, ShaQuita Kibble and Terry McWilliams, who shared their personal success stories, alongside our two keynote speakers, A.P. Merillat and Art Medina. Together they empower individuals to overcome barriers, develop new skills, and build pathways toward meaningful employment and long-term stability.

Thank you to our incredible speakers for sharing your voices and helping make this year’s luncheon so meaningful!

A building can be more than just a building. 🏛️

Yesterday, we were proud to lend our space to the City of Houston's Office of Business Opportunity, welcoming District I Council Member Joaquin Martinez to the SERJobs Workforce Resource Training Center for his annual Certification Workshop, in collaboration with Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum.

It was a full house as dedicated Houstonians filled our multipurpose room with a shared goal: creating new possibilities for themselves and their families. It's a story we ourselves have told many times at SERJobs, and it's one we're proud to keep making room for.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, and a special thank you to the City of Houston, Council Member Martinez, the Office of Business Opportunity, and the Mayor Pro Tem's Chief of Staff Perdita Chavis and Deputy Chief of Staff Justice Coutee-McCullum for showing up on her behalf!

SERJobs is committed to remaining that space where potential meets people, people meet possibility, and possibility meets purpose. 💙

We are proud to introduce Daniel Saenz, Chair of the SERJobs Board of Directors.

For Daniel, becoming Board Chair was never the goal. Service was.

Nearly a decade ago, Daniel made an intentional decision to prepare himself to give back to his community. After completing United Way’s Project Blueprint board leadership training, he began looking for the right opportunity to serve.

That journey eventually led him to SERJobs. He first joined our Programs Committee in 2021, gaining a firsthand understanding of our mission and the lives being changed through our work. In 2022, he joined the Board of Directors, where his commitment to SERJobs and the people we serve continued to grow.

Today, Daniel steps into the role of Board Chair with that same sense of purpose.

“I realize now I’m here because I was intentional—intentional in wanting to serve, intentional in learning how to serve, and intentional in making a positive impact.”

That spirit reflects the journeys of so many SERJobs members who walk through our doors determined to create a better future for themselves and their families.

As Chair, Daniel is committed to leading through service—uplifting, supporting, and encouraging SERJobs as we continue our work under the leadership of President & CEO Liliana Rambo.

And as Daniel reminds us, this work has an impact far beyond our walls: SERJobs members are literally helping build the city and county we call home.

Please join us in welcoming Daniel Saenz as Chair of the SERJobs Board of Directors. We look forward to this next chapter of service, opportunity, and impact. 🚧💙

What a memorable afternoon at the Constructing Opportunity Luncheon! 🚧⭐️

We were proud to bring together community leaders, partners, sponsors, and supporters to celebrate the impact of SERJobs and the opportunities we’re creating across our community.

From honoring those who help make our work possible to hearing stories that highlight the power of education, training, and career opportunities, the luncheon was a meaningful reminder of what we can accomplish when we come together.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, sponsored this year’s luncheon, donated to our silent auction, and continues to support the SERJobs mission. Your partnership helps us connect individuals with the skills, resources, and opportunities they need to build brighter futures.

We’re grateful to everyone who made this year’s luncheon a meaningful day of connection, celebration, and community. 💙

🛒 MORE SPOTS NOW AVAILABLE!

Due to increased demand, we’ve expanded the number of available pre-registration spots for our Second Servings Grocery Store Pop-Up happening Wednesday, September 30th!

If you’re in need of grocery support, sign up to reserve your spot and join us for fresh produce, pantry staples, and more at no cost. 🍎

You can also join us for our Disaster Preparedness Workshop to learn how to better prepare for future emergencies. Participants who complete the workshop will have the opportunity to receive a $25 H-E-B gift card provided by United Way.

Walk-ins are still welcome and encouraged! Walk-in participants will be served on a first-come, first-served basis after all pre-registered participants have been checked in and served.

📍 1960 Tellepsen St. Houston, Tx 77023
📅 Wednesday, September 30
⏰ 11 AM

🎓✨ Celebrating our September 18 graduates!

We’re so proud to recognize our electrical students who recently completed their training and completed this milestone at our graduation ceremony!

This is more than just the completion of training. It’s a celebration of the hard work, dedication, and skills our graduates have built as they take the next step toward careers in the skilled trades. ⚡🔧

👏 A huge congratulations to all of our electrical graduates! We’re excited to see where your skills take you next!

Congratulations to our first-ever carpentry graduates! 🪚🔨🎓

We celebrated the hard work and dedication of our first carpentry cohort as they completed their training and took the next step toward careers in the skilled trades.

We were also proud to welcome Ricardo Menchaca from Marek, who spoke with our students about career opportunities in drywall and the skilled trades.

Congratulations to all of our carpentry graduates! We can't wait to see where your skills take you.

📣 Fort Bend County: Looking for Training or Employment Opportunities?

If you’re interested in training opportunities and/or employment and would like to check your eligibility, SERJobs is here to help!

For the remainder of this year, available training opportunities include:
🔨 Core Construction
🚜 Forklift
🧱 Drywall
🔧 Carpentry

Looking ahead to next year, HVAC and Electrical training opportunities are now accepting interested members for a waitlist.

Interested in learning more or checking your eligibility? Contact Jazmine Perkins directly to discuss available trainings, review eligibility requirements, and get assistance with the next steps.

📧 [email protected]
📞 281-207-2301

Take the next step toward building your skills and exploring new employment opportunities!

Every journey starts with a first step. For YouthBuild Houston participants, that step has opened the door to new skills, hands-on training, industry-recognized credentials, and new opportunities for the future.

Now, it’s your turn!

If you’re between the ages of 16 and 24, live in Harris County, and are ready to earn your GED while preparing for a career, YouthBuild Houston can help you build the skills and confidence to reach your goals.

🎓 GED preparation and academic support
🛠️ Hands-on workforce training
🏆 Industry-recognized credentials
🤝 Leadership development
💼 Career readiness and employment support

Applications for the new cohort close this week on September 18th.

Take the first step toward your future today: serjobs.org/youthbuildhouston

Questions? Contact the YouthBuild team at [email protected] or 713-773-6000.

🛒 Mark Your Calendars! Our next Second Servings Grocery Store Pop-Up is happening Wednesday, September 30th!

This event is open to all Houstonians in need of grocery support! Whether you're facing food insecurity or just need a little extra help this month, we’re here for you.

Join us for our Disaster Preparedness Workshop on the same day and learn how to better prepare for future emergencies. Participants who complete the workshop will have the opportunity to receive a $25 H-E-B gift card provided by United Way.

All pre-registered participant spots have been filled. Walk-ins are still welcome and will be served on a first-come, first-served basis after all pre-registered participants have been checked in and served. Thank you for your interest, and we look forward to seeing you at the event!

Enjoy fresh produce, pantry staples, and more, all at no cost. 🍎

Check out our ONE-OF-A-KIND Silent Auction!

We’re highlighting four exclusive art pieces created specifically for the SERJobs Constructing Opportunity Luncheon, featuring work from talented local artists:

⭐️ Frida by John Paul Segovia
⭐️ Welcome to East End Houston by Donkeeboy & Donkeemom
⭐️ Houston, FIFA World Cup 2026 by Jay Marroquin
⭐️ Custom Handbag: One-of-a-Kind Wearable Art by Alyssia Aguilar, aka The Lofty Mom

These unique pieces are just a few of the 22 auction items available to bid on from local artists, restaurants, and businesses.

🔗 VIEW ALL OF THE AUCTION ITEMS: https://givebutter.com/c/serjobs-constructing-opportunity-luncheon-mpav14

Every bid helps support the Constructing Opportunity Luncheon and SERJobs’ ongoing work to build stronger communities through workforce development and economic opportunity.

Another successful hiring event in the books! 🏗️

On Wednesday, SERJobs partnered with Building Talent Foundation to host our Construction & Trades Hiring Event, connecting our community with real career opportunities in the skilled trades.

The results speak for themselves:
✅ 22 amazing employers in the room
✅ 91 job seekers served (42 SERJobs members + 49 community job seekers)

From HVAC to electrical, carpentry & more, job seekers walked in with resumes in hand and walked out with real connections to employers who are hiring NOW.

Our Recruitment Team is now following up with employers and members to track job placements and keep the momentum going!

A huge thank you to our employer partners, Building Talent Foundation, and every job seeker who showed up ready to take the next step in their career. This is what workforce development looks like! 💪

Big things are brewing in District B!

Today, SERJobs had the honor of hosting Houston City Council Member Tarsha Jackson and her team for a powerful introduction and next-steps conversation. Council Member Jackson — founder of the Urban Community Network (UCN), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families and strengthening communities across Houston — sat down with our CEO, Liliana Rambo, and the SERJobs Recruitment Team to explore how our organizations can join forces.

We talked through the work each of our organizations does, Council Member Jackson's vision for District B, and — most importantly — how SERJobs and UCN can partner to strengthen Houston's construction workforce. From connecting residents to construction training and employment pathways to equipping local construction employers with the capacity to grow and hire, this collaboration is about creating real, lasting opportunity for Houston families and building up our city — literally and figuratively.

Thank you, Council Member Tarsha Jackson and team, for taking the time to visit SERJobs! We're proud to stand alongside leaders who are just as committed to lifting up our community, and we're excited for the work ahead. 🧡

Together, we're building a stronger, more skilled construction workforce — one partnership at a time.

LET THE BIDDING BEGIN ‼️

With 22 items donated by local artists, restaurants, and businesses, there’s something for everyone! From unique experiences and local favorites to one-of-a-kind items.

Place your winning bid today and help support SERJobs’ mission to connect individuals with education, training, and career opportunities. 🛠️

Explore all 22 items and get your bids in before the auction closes!

🔗 BID HERE: https://givebutter.com/c/serjobs-constructing-opportunity-luncheon-mpav14

SERJobs is honored to receive a grant from Houston Methodist through its Nonmedical Drivers of Health Grant Program! 🌟

This generous investment will support the expansion of SERJobs’ Construction Trades Workforce Initiative, providing low-income adults with industry-recognized credentials, career coaching, financial empowerment, and direct job placement into high-demand construction careers.

This funding will strengthen economic mobility for underserved residents by reducing employment barriers and creating pathways to stable, family-sustaining wages. It will also support training, wraparound services, and stronger employer partnerships to meet regional workforce needs.

We are grateful to Houston Methodist for supporting initiatives that create pathways to economic mobility and opportunity for our community.

📣 LUNCHEON CO-CHAIR ANNOUNCEMENT

SERJobs is honored to welcome Judith Cruz as a Luncheon Co-Chair of the 2026 Constructing Opportunity Luncheon.

A longtime Houston community leader and educator, Judith brings more than 25 years of experience in education, nonprofit leadership, and public service. A former Trustee and Board President of the Houston Independent School District, she continues to advocate for stronger schools, communities, and opportunities for individuals and families across Houston.

We are grateful for Judith’s leadership and support as we come together to celebrate the partnerships, employers, and individuals who are constructing brighter futures through workforce development.

Join us this Thursday, September 17, 2026, as we recognize the leaders and organizations helping construct opportunity across Greater Houston.

🌟 Sponsorships + Tickets - https://givebutter.com/c/serjobs-constructing-opportunity-luncheon-mpav14

📣 LUNCHEON CO-CHAIR ANNOUNCEMENT

SERJobs is honored to welcome Eric Cruz as a Luncheon Co-Chair of the 2026 Constructing Opportunity Luncheon.

A Houston community leader and energy industry professional, Eric brings more than 12 years of experience at CenterPoint Energy, where he leads a Project Management Office and a team of project management professionals. Passionate about leadership and workforce development, Eric is committed to bringing people and organizations together to create opportunities for others to succeed.

We look forward to his continued support as we bring together leaders and partners dedicated to creating pathways to success.

Join us, September 17, 2026, as we recognize the leaders and organizations helping construct opportunity across Greater Houston.

🌟 Sponsorships + Tickets - https://givebutter.com/c/serjobs-constructing-opportunity-luncheon-mpav14

Every journey starts with a first step. For YouthBuild Houston participants, that step has opened the door to new skills, hands-on training, industry-recognized credentials, and new opportunities for the future.

Now, it’s your turn!

If you’re between the ages of 16 and 24, live in Harris County, and are ready to earn your GED while preparing for a career, YouthBuild Houston can help you build the skills and confidence to reach your goals.

🎓 GED preparation and academic support
🛠️ Hands-on workforce training
🏆 Industry-recognized credentials
🤝 Leadership development
💼 Career readiness and employment support

Applications for the new cohort close on September 18th.

Take the first step toward your future today: serjobs.org/youthbuildhouston

Questions? Contact the YouthBuild team at [email protected] or 713-773-6000.

📣 LUNCHEON CO-CHAIR ANNOUNCEMENT

SERJobs is honored to welcome Dr. Frances Villagran-Glover, D.A., as a Luncheon Co-Chair of the 2026 Constructing Opportunity Luncheon.
As President of Houston City College Southeast College, Dr. Villagran-Glover is a dedicated leader committed to expanding access to education, strengthening workforce pathways, and creating opportunities for economic mobility. Through her leadership and partnership with organizations like SERJobs, she continues to help connect individuals and communities to training, employment, and long-term success.

We are grateful for Dr. Villagran-Glover’s leadership and support as we bring together employers, community leaders, and partners to celebrate the transformative power of workforce development.

Join us next week, September 17, 2026, as we recognize the leaders and organizations helping construct opportunity across Greater Houston.

🌟 Sponsorships + Tickets - https://givebutter.com/c/serjobs-constructing-opportunity-luncheon-mpav14

🛒 Mark Your Calendars! Our next Second Servings Grocery Store Pop-Up is happening Wednesday, September 30th!

This event is open to all Houstonians in need of grocery support! Whether you're facing food insecurity or just need a little extra help this month, we’re here for you.

Join us for our Disaster Preparedness Workshop on the same day and learn how to better prepare for future emergencies. Participants who complete the workshop will have the opportunity to receive a $25 H-E-B gift card provided by United Way.

Registration is required to attend, so be sure to sign up early to reserve your spot!
https://serjobs.jotform.com/team/programs/2nd-servings-pop-up

Enjoy fresh produce, pantry staples, and more, all at no cost. 🍎

Building Stronger Pathways in Construction & Trades 🤝

SERJobs is excited to spotlight a growing partnership with Artisan Design Group
and United Finishes, made possible through the continued support of Lowe's Foundation.

A huge thank you to Lowe's for opening the door and creating the opportunity for us to connect with the United Finishes team. Your confidence in our organization and your commitment to strengthening workforce partnerships mean so much to us.

Our team had the opportunity to tour United Finishes' warehouse and see their operations firsthand. Seeing their processes and hearing directly about their workforce needs gave us valuable insight into how SERJobs can support their growth. One of the biggest challenges we face as a workforce development organization is helping employers understand who we are and the value we bring. Conversations like this one prove that strong employer partnerships create real opportunity — for businesses and for job seekers alike.

At SERJobs, we strive to be more than a referral source. We work to deliver a pipeline of qualified, job-ready, "pre-approved" candidates — trained, assessed, and prepared to contribute from day one. Our goal is simple: help employers meet their workforce needs while creating life-changing career opportunities for the individuals we serve. We're proud to grow our presence across the construction industry and its many skilled trades — and partnerships like this one with Artisan Design Group, United Finishes, and Lowe's Foundation move that mission forward.

Here's to a long-lasting partnership and the meaningful impact ahead. 🛠️

Today, we honor the dedication, hard work, and contributions of workers everywhere — including the incredible members, partners, and employers who help our Houston community thrive. 🇺🇸

We will reopen for normal business hours on Tuesday, September 8th.

SERJobs is honored to be selected as a 2026 Community Grants Program grantee by Port Houston. This will support SERJobs’ continued efforts to expand workforce development opportunities and provide individuals throughout our community with the resources, skills, and connections needed to pursue meaningful careers.

We thank Port Houston for their continued commitment for recognizing the important work of community organizations like SERJobs. We look forward to putting this support to work and creating lasting impact across the communities we serve.

🚧🦺 Only 3 tables remain! If you’re planning to attend, now is the time to reserve your table.

This is more than a luncheon — it’s a room full of people who believe in Houston and in the power of opportunity. And we want YOU there!

Want to make an even greater impact? Sponsorship opportunities are still available, starting at $2,500.

📅 September 17 | 11:30 AM–1:30 PM
🤝 View our sponsorships: https://www.serjobs.org/constructing-opportunity-luncheon
✉️ Email our team: [email protected]

NEXT WEEK! 🦺 Construction & Trades Hiring Event September 9!

Looking for your next opportunity in the skilled trades? Join SERJobs and Building Talent Foundation to meet local employers who are hiring now.

📅 Wednesday, September 9, 2026
⏰ 9 AM–12 PM
📍 SERJobs WRTC | 1960 Tellspen St., Houston, TX 77023

Opportunities include:
🔧 HVAC
⚡ Electrical
🚜 Forklift
🔨 Carpentry & Drywall
🚛 CDL & more

Job seekers: Bring your resume and dress to impress. Registration is required.

ATTENDEE REGISTRATION - https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=jIuMUSswCk67SSprdEQ7b2rfQmJq4A1HlLbYNqSXJVtUQjNVRDU1M0dKTUtERDNIMUFMUENYN1k1Wi4u