When Opportunity Changes Everything
We believe in the transformative power of meaningful employment. When women have access to job training, career opportunities, and supportive resources, they can build the skills and confidence needed to create the future they envision for themselves.
Through our justice enterprises, where the mission is the workforce, we provide more than jobs. We create pathways for women to discover their strengths, pursue their goals, and build lives rooted in stability, purpose, and hope.
For Rachel, eCommerce & Web Specialist at Thistle Farms, that pathway began with an opportunity through AnnieCannons, a nonprofit that trains, prepares, and connects survivors of human trafficking to sustainable careers in tech.
"I came to AnnieCannons while I was rebuilding my life at BELOVED. When someone first told me about the program, I honestly didn't think I could do it," Rachel shared. "I was good with numbers, but coding looked confusing, and I didn't think I was smart enough. Even though I was scared, I gave it a chance because I wanted a better future."
What began as a leap into the unknown became a powerful journey of exploration and discovery. Through AnnieCannons, Rachel gained technical skills, but perhaps even more importantly, she began to see herself differently.
"One of the biggest things I discovered about myself is that I'm capable of a lot more than I ever believed," she said. "AnnieCannons taught me that I didn't have to know everything to succeed I just had to keep showing up. It gave me confidence, helped me find my voice, and showed me that I belonged in spaces I never thought I could be in."
With that newfound confidence, Rachel took another step forward and applied for an apprenticeship at Thistle Farms.
"AnnieCannons gave me the confidence to apply for an apprenticeship at Thistle Farms, even though I wasn't sure I was good enough," she said. "I remember being so nervous during the interview, and when I found out I got it, I couldn't believe someone believed in me enough to give me that chance."
That apprenticeship eventually grew into a full-time role as an eCommerce & Web Specialist at Thistle Farms, an opportunity Rachel describes as one of the moments that changed her life.
Today, she continues to learn, grow, and contribute through work that is both challenging and deeply meaningful.
"At Thistle Farms, I've found a job that I genuinely care about," Rachel said. "When I launch something and it works, I get so excited because I know I helped make it happen. When something breaks, I can't stop thinking about it until I figure it out. I love learning something new every day, and knowing that the work I do helps share Thistle Farms' mission makes it even more meaningful."
Rachel's story is a reminder of what's possible when women are given opportunities to learn, grow, and pursue new paths. Meaningful employment can do more than provide a job. It can build confidence, unlock potential, and create a foundation for a future filled with purpose.
Sometimes, all it takes is one opportunity. And sometimes, that opportunity changes everything.
