The Big Day Has Finally Arrived, "We’re Heading to D.C."

Morris (husband) and I arrived in DC on the afternoon of Wednesday, September 3rd.  The AARP had taken care of everything for us.  We stayed in a beautiful hotel, the Renaissance Mayflower.  This was our first time in D.C. so we were pretty excited.  That evening we familiarized ourselves with the area and things took off from there.  We were approximately 4 blocks from the White House and conveniently located in downtown D.C.  The next day we toured the White House (thanks to our Congressman).  The tour was informative, rewarding and lasted for approximately 30-45 minutes.

There was a dinner party planned for the next evening to honor the "Dream Job" Winners at Acardiana Restaurant.  This was the first time all the winners had met in person.  There we had the opportunity to meet the COO of AARP, Director of AARP Workforce (Deborah) and J.C. (WUSA-TV anchor) who were co-moderators of the upcoming sessions.  We had the opportunity to meet so many other wonderful staff members of AARP.  It was truly an evening to remember.  I was very pleased and exicted to see Heather and Carmenza from my state office in attendance.

After the dinner, we visited the Convention Center to see where we would be speaking and to enjoy the many activities/vendors that were available.  There was so much to see and do.  There were buses stationed outside the convention center as well as our hotel to shuttle us to and from the convention.  I could have stayed there another week to be honest, there was so much information.  From healthcare to firm mattresses, you name it, the information was there.  That evening we took in a concert (compliments of the AARP).  We saw Chaka Khan and Natalie Cole, two outstanding performers.  

The next morning we would be speaking at the Convention.  All the winners would be on a panel at the University Session.  Marci had asked that we meet at the conference room for a quick briefing at l0:30.  Session was ll:00 - 12:00.  Lights, cameras, action - - J.C. the news reporter, Deborah, Marci and all the winners were now there and ready to go.  It was show time!  There were approximately 150-200 people in attendance.  We were in a half circle position on the stage.  Deborah introduced us individually and talked about our dream jobs; J.C. asked the questions regarding our experiences thus far.  The questions portion lasted approximately  l5-30 minutes, with each winner having a chance to speak.  The question/answer session from the audience lasted for approximately l5 minutes.  This was clearly the most exciting thing I had ever been part of in my lifetime.  Afterwards, people flocked up to shake our hands and congratulate us on our "win" and the information we had provided.  I must admit, I was a little "celebrity shy" starting out.  That lasted all but 2 seconds and when the ball started rolling, I rolled with it!!!!!  

Speaking engagement was not done yet.  Later that day we met at the "Water Cooler" where Kathryn, Stephany and I spoke to convention attendees about how important "networking" is in all aspect of our lives, but even more so when job hunting.  I shared a story in  particular, where the AARP office in my state had invited me to a ribbon cutting ceremony.  During the ceremony, I met the Alderman’s Director.  I have been in contact with her since regarding my win.  Networking is an extremely important tool.  Quite a few people in the audience shared how they had networked and found jobs.

The next night we went to see the group Chicago (yes another complimentary treat from the AARP, and while we are on the subject, yes on the third evening, we were treated with tickets to see Paul Simon, can’t ask for more).  First time I had ever seen the group Chicago live, and I must say they "Rocked the House." 

Next day, back to "convention land."  We picked up more materials, visited the "Water Cooler" booth to support the dream job winner speaking that day, and decided to take a tour of DC.  The tour lasted approximately 3 hours and we saw some of the monumental areas of D.C.  So much to see and do.  

The evening before we left, I contacted all the winners and Marci to let everyone know what a wonderful time we had.  I also told Marci how much I appreciated all she had done for us, in putting all this together. 

I personally wanted to thank the AARP for  giving me such a opportunity.  You never know in life, at what age, you are doing to do something you have never done before.  I am the first in my immediate family to go to D.C., and tour the White House.  This goes to show you are never too old to dream, or to do or learn something you have never done before.  This experience has truly revitalized my life such that I want to do and learn more and more and more.  I also met some wonderful people during the convention and University session whom I will be contacting here in Chicago. 

I could go on and on, but I want to save some room on the site for the other "Dream Job" winners  AARP thank you again for making our stay such a memorable one.  And to the other winners, it was a pleasure meeting each and everyone of you.  I look foward to our continued friendship as our journeys continue........

The "Big" Meeting, August 20th, 2008

I had the good fortune to be able meet with Ms,. Holt (District Director to Congressman Bobby Rush) on Wednesday, August 20th at her office on East 79th Street in Chicago.  I want to personally thank Ms. Holt for taking the time out of her busy day to sit doan and talk with me about my "Dream Job" win.  Upon my arrival Ms. Holt introduced me to her staff, as teh AARP Dream Job winner, and the conversation went full force from there.

Ms. Holt has offered her assistance as well as that of her staff (Mr. Seals), who is her District Programs Coordinator.  Ms. Holt has also connected me to the Deputy District Director.  Mr. Suleman works closely with the SBA to sponsor business development. 

I look forward to continuing to work with Ms. HOlt as the venture moves forward.   

Meeting With Mr. Wilson

Well, finally on July 1st I met with Mr. Wilson Chief of Staff, to my alderman, Ms. Austin.  I presented Mr. Wilson with a packet, that included my biography, a copy of the AARP dream job win, and the plan for the family social center.  Mr. Wilson was impressed with my packet, and said he would certainly share my information with Ms. Austin when she is back in the office.    Mr. Wilson shared the lay-out as it stands now of the new mega-center and highly recommended that I meet with Major Harvey, sooner rather than later.  As I mentioned earlier, Major Harvey is the gentleman spearheading the new and upcoming mega center.  Further, he informed me Major Harvey will have an office in the area soon.   

I received an e-mail from Major Harvey earlier in the week, and we are in the process of setting up a meeting.  Stay tuned.............

Essays/Contact Information/Upcoming Conference Calls

On February 8th, AARP sent us a written copy of all the winning essays.  I really enjoyed reading the other essays.   I was just amazed.  Given AARP knew we would be interactng on a consistent basis throughout the year, they provided a list of everyone’s contact information.  

AARP informed us they were in the process of setting up two upcoming conference calls.   One call was regarding the on-line journaling site that AARP was rolling out for the group.  The other call would be with the State Offices of each winner as well as others who would be assisting throughout this amazing journey.

We spoke with the representatives from each office.  They outlined what would be expected from us going forward as well as plans that each state had for each winner.  It was a very exciting call........   

The First Planning Meeting

Bob, from RetirementJobs arrived in the Windy City for our first planning meeting on February 15, 2008.  Bob met me at my place of employment, where he spoke to my manager and other co-workers who have been extremely supportive of me during this process.  We then took the Metra train to my home where Bob met my husband and two daughters. 

That evening we had dinner at a neighborhood restaurant where we all got acquainted.  During this meeting, we talked about what I envisioned in the Center, i.e.,  possible locations, staffing, whether the center would be for profit or non-profit, contacts, and the next step.  

The next day Bob met the extended family, mother, sister and brothers.  Prior to their arrival, Bob and I canvassed the neighborhood to see what kind of other centers, churches, schools, etc. were in the area.  Based on our findings, the next step was for Bob to put together a "to do" list.  The family was now on board, and we knew what we had to do.  My first meeting with Bob was a real success,  and I look forward to his next visit and working with him in the future.   

Dream Job Site Goes Public"The WaterCooler"

"Lunch with AARP office in Chicago"

On March l9, 2008 I received an e-mail from Marci that the site announcing the "Dream Job Winners" had been launched.  This information was shared with the State Offices as well.  Phone calls and e-mails were coming from all over.  People were excited to have a chance to read the winning essays.  

On March 26, I had lunch with Heather and the AARP office in Chicago.  I was greeted with a very nice lunch, flowers and a certificate endorsed by the group.  During this get acquainted lunch, each person provided me with information as to what their role is in the organization and how they might be able to benefit/provide me with information as I move forward with this venture.  I in  turn shared information about myself, and discussed in more detail "the dream". 

I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with such an informative wonderful group of people.  I have volunteered for some of the upcoming events and contacted some of the resources they provided.

I look forward to working with this group as I make this dream a reality.  Thank you AARP in Chicago for your support. 

   Other Resources/Free Workshops 

     The AARP provided the winners with a resource sheet that included several helpful links.  One of the links I contacted was www.sba.gov.  I took several of their free on line courses.  This site is packed with helpful information about starting a business, is free and readily available to anyone interested in starting a buisness of any kind.

     Also, thanks to AARP in Chicago, I was able to get some hands on training at a workshop at the University of Illinois.  This workshop covered every aspect of business planning to potential business locations.     

     The resources provided are extremely helpfulin pursuring this venture. 

First Radio Interview 

Earlier in the month, I received a call from Heather at the AARP in Chicago.  Heather informed me, I would be receiving a call from the Illinois Radio Service who wanted to intervew on my "dream job" win.  The interview went very well and I understand it will be aired sometime in June.

Bob of Retirementjobs.com and I now have the plan for the center complete.  I recently learned after attending a council meeting in my area, that there are plans to put a "family social center" in close proximity to where I live.  I must tell you I was much disappointed when I first heard this.  This center is being developed by a very big worldwide organization. 

Since that time, however, Bob and I have made contact with the individuals who are spearheading this center.  Bob and I plan to meet with the organizers during the next week and we are confident the things will be moving in an upward direction on all fronts.     

    Further Communication regarding Mega-Center 

Given recent developments regarding the other orgnizations plan to put what I would call a "Mega-Family Center"  in the area, Bob and I felt it even more important that we meet sooner rather than later with the plan developers/organizers.   We have contacted the person who is instrumental in the planning of his center and he has agreed to meet with us.  Bob, Heather  of AARP in Chicago and I had a conference call on Tuesday, June 3 to map out our strategy going forward.  The plan is to meet with the Alderman and Senator in my area to go over our plan.   I  understand this center will definitely enhance the quality of life in the area, and I am hoping to be an asset in relation to the substance of the center as well as look into ways that my center and interface.  The center is planned for the West Pullman area, which is a landmark area in the neighborhood.  There were several cities targeted for this kind of center across the United States.  Chicago and in particular the West Pullman area was one of the chosen sites.  I am esctatic at hearing and look forward to ongoing conversationas/meetings to promote my plan and to assist in any way that we can.   

Radio Interview Airs on June 3, 2008  

Heather of the AARP in Chicago was instrumental in setting up a radio interview for me with Deb of Public News Service of the state of Illinois.

 On May 14th, I interviewed with Deb regarding my "Dream Job" win.  Deb asked me what steps I had taken thus far to fulfill the dream and how I felt about going into a totally differently field.  The interview lasted approximately 5 minutes.  The interview aired on June 3, 2008 on several radio stations throughout Illinois.

The banner of the story was: 

"Chicago, IL - More than 70 percent of Baby Boomers want to continue working beyond standard retirement age, according to AARP - and may want a new career for their golden years.  Seven thousand Boomers shared their idea of a retirement "dream job" in a national contest, and a woman in Chicago was one of six winners.  Jenette Guillory (GILL-or-ee) has details on the major career change she’s making as she readies for a working retirement. 

How exciting and thank you Deb and Heather!!!!!!!