Coming from South Korea, Charlotte Kim was finding it hard to break into the Canadian job market, especially in her dream field – working with non-profits and community organizations.

But with the support of the Mike Braga Community Fund and the help of the Social Sciences Careers and Experiential Education team, Kim landed a position as an operations coordinator at Habitat for Humanity Halton Mississauga Dufferin (HMD) and is gaining valuable work experience and connections as part of her degree program.

Kim, a level III student in the Work and Labour Studies co-op stream, works with ReStore, Habitat HMD’s social enterprise operation that raises funds to build affordable housing for lower-income families.

For Kim, the placement presents an opportunity to work in a fulfilling role that promotes strength, stability and independence by providing affordable housing that enables financial equality and lasting change.

“The reason I wanted this job in the first place is that housing justice is such an important aspect in helping less privileged communities,” said Kim. “I feel really fulfilled working here, as I get to support the work to provide proper housing and uplift families. It’s crucial work.”

She helps make sure everything runs smoothly by working on process guidelines and volunteer training. In addition to gaining valuable and in-demand human resources experience, Kim is building many other skills.

“I’m more confident in my communications skills than ever before,” Kim said.

“Everyone is very friendly and have supported and accommodated me during my time here. They’ve been amazing.”

The position was created with the support of the Mike Braga Community Fund, created in 2023 through the generosity of a 2001 McMaster graduate. The fund supports emerging opportunities to create more inclusive work placements.

“Thanks to Mike Braga and Habitat HMD for making this valuable co-op placement possible,” said Jeremiah Hurley, dean of Social Sciences. Initiatives like this are vital for students seeking meaningful career opportunities, Hurley said.

“I really appreciate the Mike Braga Community Fund because without the financial support this position could not exist,” Kim agrees.

“It’s a great opportunity because I finally got Canadian experience and I felt that I could not step into the job market without this.

“I feel much more confident about my future now.”