Essential Impact has been working with Mission Possible for a number of years. Mission Possible is in the business of helping people and changing lives. Essential Impact loves being involved with passionate people who want to make a difference and Mission Possible fits the mold. We wanted to share one story from Mission Possible to give you a bit of insight into how Essential Impact and Mission Possible has been able to affect people’s lives.

This is John’s Story.

In an area where life is often a daily struggle, coaching sessions at Mission Possible (MP) can transform people at a vital level. Many participants want something much better for their lives, and feel stuck and unable to get moving. This feeling can often exacerbate mental health challenges and increase anxiety.

“We learned to be cautious with giving even a gentle push,” Matthew explains, “and default rather to get real, vulnerable conversations started. Empathy is critical. We show our participants that we understand their fear. We must. Yet still: it’s our job to break the cycle of dependence. And help them uncover their own capacities, abilities, talents and gifts.”

John, even though suffering from depression, walked into Mission Possible one day feeling ready to examine his strengths. Displaying a notable contrast, his abilities were remarkable, yet his confidence rather bleak. A perfect coaching opportunity.

John was highly engaged in his weekly coaching and gradually came to trust his own ability to make good decisions. After some time working for MPs social enterprise, John was hired to work at Mission Possible’s front desk. “He shone! He was an expert at making participants feel seen and heard.”

John eventually wanted a more competitive job. His newfound confidence allowed him to step out and begin working for a great company assisting with accounting and administrative work and then arranged funding to go study Library Sciences. Thanks to his experience in coaching he’s now on to a career that fits his skills and love for people. “Working with John was tremendously fulfilling,” Jennifer continues, “and we have nominated him for this year’s MP Comeback Award.”

Written by, Jennifer Langerud, Employment Program Coordinator, Mission Possible & Matt Smedley, Executive Director/ CEO, Mission Possible