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South Bend Redevelopment Commission <br />Regular Meeting –March 5, 2010 <br /> <br />was getting started at the time most all the <br />companies were laying people off. When <br />Mr. Summers was able to meet with a <br />decision-maker, they agreed it sounded like a <br />great program, but said they couldn’t imagine <br />hiring a person with challenges over the <br />twenty applicants without challenges who are <br />waiting at the door for any job they’d have <br />available. Mr. Summers pointed out to them <br />that resumes can sound great, but he would <br />be giving his personal recommendation to <br />anyone he would put forward. He asked that <br />his clients be given an interview and <br />consideration based on that recommendation. <br />There were not many jobs available at all. <br />Many decision-makers have promised to give <br />Project Impact clients a chance at jobs that <br />do become available as the economy opens <br />up. <br /> <br />Mr. Summers said he had a difficult time <br />getting in to talk with business owners. He <br />asked Steve Hartz, Value Production, to <br />create introductions for him with these <br />owners. Mr. Hartz has been very helpful to <br />do that. Mr. Summers believes owners have <br />a preconceived idea of what Project Impact’s <br />program is. He wants them to hear a full <br />explanation. <br /> <br />Project Impact held an open house on Martin <br />Luther King day. A number of individuals <br />came through, talked to representatives, and <br />saw the facility. Some were surprised to <br />learn it was different than they thought. <br />They were willing to discuss the possibility <br />of cooperation. <br /> <br />Mr. Summers noted that Project Impact also <br />said it would attempt to make Project Impact <br />self-sustainable. He believes that is a matter <br />of collaborating with other programs, looking <br /> 34 <br /> <br />