Shelterhouse, Cincinnati OH

I interviewed for a position (residential aide) with this non-profit and came prepared. Two college degrees, former active duty Marine, more than six years volunteering experience (four years with mentally handicapped students at the high school I attended, and two years working with recovering addicts/homeless persons), excellent references and work history, etc. I was grossly overqualified for the job, but didn't care. I'm medically retired from the military and technically never have to work again due to a generous benefits package from the VA, but really wanted the opportunity to give back to my community and use my own experiences to help those in need.

Arrived to the interview and, admittedly, was probably overdressed (dress slacks/collared shirt/fitted vest with tie. I'd rather overdress than underdress). Met two staff members and we spoke in private for about 30 minutes. I felt it went perfect, as it was obvious this was an opportunity I was passionate about. We then toured the facility, and they answered my questions as they arose. At the end, I thanked them both for their time and said I'd need a day to go over the proposed pay, schedule, as well as other options I had. They seemed receptive and understood.

Although the interview went well, one of the two staff members didn't seem to like me. He didn't say anything outright, just a vibe I felt that seemed off. Two days later I received the following text from them (I still have it on my phone) : "Hi NAME HERE, I finally touched base with XYZ and with the position being offered yesterday and another early today, I have the slots filled I needed filled. I apologize but as we said, we had to move quickly due to being short staffed. I wish you the best in your search for employment. "

My response: "Hi NAME HERE. I totally understand and sincerely thank you and XYZ for your time. Would it be possible to have my resume kept on file, in the event you have an opening down the road? I'd still be very interested in being a part of your team should the opportunity present itself. "

Was left on read, zero response. Checked their website afterwards, and the job was still listed and remained open for weeks until I stopped looking. So, it's not that the position was filled, but that they didn't want me as an employee.

Fair enough, nobody is obligated to hire anyone. However, from a professional standpoint, I found their response rather cowardly and much prefer honesty from others. In hindsight - and to give them the benefit of the doubt - I suppose I should have "dumbed down" my resume and aspirations. Perhaps they thought with my credentials, I wouldn't last as an employee and eventually quit; I'm really not sure, as I never gave the impression this was a possibility.

*I've since amended my review and added an additional star to their overall rating. Shelterhouse's mission and what they provide to the community is invaluable, and I deeply respect the effort. However, it seems strange they wouldn't even give someone with my background a chance - someone who was completely fine with the less-than-stellar pay and truly wanted to contribute in any way possible.

Also, as of 9/4/2023, they're still hiring for the same position I applied to. This doesn’t surprise me, as jobs like these tend to have a high turnover rate

I wouldn’t mention at any time that you’ve traveled anywhere if you plan on getting a bed in this place. I came here specifically to settle down and relocate, but because I’ve traveled, they refuse to give me a bed.

I went here with the understanding that I could get help. Not only has this place been the biggest thorn in my side. I did everything that was asked of me to receive assistance. Spent entire days getting paperwork, got two jobs, just to ne told without a discussion of any kind I wouldn’t receive any help in housing placement. Fine. But right in the same area I sleep in, there’s a man that drinks like no tomorrow, doesn’t work at all, he’s moving into an apartment that they helped him get. They want everything done for them just do nothing for you, and they don’t at all try to help those who help themselves. A man urinated on the floor near the bed I sleep in, and they simply told him to “take a walk” while someone else cleaned it up. Meanwhile they put a man over a can of arizona tea. If I could give zero stars I would. You’re better off under a bridge than dealing with this place.

We were doing some concrete work here. Place seemed busy. The few staff I interacted with seemed pleasant. Place was clean and seemed well kept

Was very helpful that others, (halfway house) didn't provide. They respect you if you follow protocol's

They don't tell you that you have 30 days to get your ID birth certificate social security card a drug assessment a doctor's appointment and a job or else they just one day don't let you in b*******

This place is worst than prison it's filthy & disgusting been here 2 months and Noone here has done anything for me but I'm black if you're white they will bend over backwards for you