In May 1993, Delfi Bueno, graduated from the Fashion Industry High School, and her only work experience was as a cashier in a local supermarket. She heard about Opportunities for a Better Tomorrow (OBT) through friends and family members, and she decided to give it chance.

“I didn’t want to continue being a cashier in Pathmark, so I decided to come to OBT to upgrade my skills and get a better job”, said Ms Bueno about what motivated her to come to OBT.

Ms. Bueno enrolled in OBT along with two friends in February 1994. Of the three, she was the only one to complete the program, a testament to the tough standards and high expectations OBT has for its trainees.

“When I came to OBT I had no skills. But in the time I was there, I learned how to type, handle a computer and how to prepare for an interview,” remarked Ms. Bueno. “The world of work classes I will never forget – especially being video taped during a mock interview. I was very nervous, but that helped me to be more confident in myself.”

Today she is the Senior Human Resources for the Northeast Division at Washington Mutual. Her first placement from OBT was at Greater New York Savings bank as a Teller. In between, she worked for Kelly Services and for Spherion, two recruitment and placement firms located in New York City.

Recently, Washington Mutual, through Ms. Bueno, has turned to OBT for its hiring needs.

“Its great when successful OBT alumni like Ms. Bueno give back to the organization. In this case, as a recruiter who fully understands our program model and its high standards, Ms. Bueno is creating a win-win scenario for us and the company,” said Randy Peers, OBT’s Executive Director.

“Coming to OBT was the best decision I ever made, and I am proud to contribute to development and success of these young adults”, concluded Mr. Bueno.