When Imari Alvarez joined CareerCatchers as a Fundraising AmeriCorps VISTA, she brought a strong foundation in community engagement and nonprofit storytelling shaped by her education at Coppin State University and early work in Baltimore-based organizations.
After graduation, Imari pursued a career in the nonprofit sector but experienced a prolonged period of unemployment that challenged her confidence and direction. Despite her skills and experience, securing full-time work proved difficult.
Her path shifted when she connected with CareerCatchers. During the interview process, staff recognized her strengths and encouraged her to build on her experience while pursuing her long-term goals in fundraising and development.
Since joining CareerCatchers, Imari has made meaningful contributions. She coordinated the organization’s Annual Appreciation Day in 2025 and is currently supporting the planning efforts for 2026. She has helped secure new community partnerships and increase attendance. She also supported the Spring Campaign through outreach and training efforts that contributed to raising more than $40,000 and gaining 16 new donors.
Now entering her second AmeriCorps VISTA term, Imari continues to grow professionally while supporting CareerCatchers’ mission of connecting individuals to opportunity.
“This is a place where people are reminded of what they’re capable of,” Imari shared. “I want others to know there are organizations that will stand with them while they rebuild and move forward.”
Imari’s experience reflects the heart of CareerCatchers’ work: creating space for people to rebuild confidence, gain experience, and move toward meaningful, sustainable employment.
When you invest in CareerCatchers, you are investing in stories like Imari’s—where potential is recognized, supported, and transformed into impact.