Ask an Expert

Posted by christian on May 12, 2009 - 9:57am

When we launched the Unemployment LifeLine, it had information about more than 50,000 resources for unemployed people. Since then, the LifeLine has kept growing—we've added more than 10,000 food banks, health clinics, senior centers and aid organizations. Now we're adding a whole new kind of resource—live people.

Every day, the Unemployment LifeLine's "Ask an Expert" will feature a community services staffer visiting the LifeLine's discussion forums to answer your questions and give advice for your situation. We know that's important because everyone's situation is unique; there are no one-size-fits-all solutions.

Today's expert is Tom Ryan.

Tom's Bio

I’m the Community Services Director at SF Labor Council (SFLC)\ Community Services Liaison with United Way of the Bay Area.

I’m also the Executive Director of SFLC\STEP an agency within the labor council that provides job training, wraparound social services (I&R, case management, job development, job placement and retention) and emergency hardship services to low income and immigrant workers and their families.

I’ve been working and organizing in the labor movement and non-profit field for about 35 years. I graduated from Hobart College in Geneva, New York. My first union was International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT), unloading freight cars for A&P in New York. Since then I have been a member of the United Auto workers (UAW) Local 890, Carpenters Union, Hotel and Restaurant Employees Local 2 and now I’ m currently in Office and Professional Employees Union (OPEIU) Local 3.

Our goal in this work is to help folks get through the transition period after a layoff in the best shape possible. Usually a short, medium and long term plan is part of being successful in this transition period.

If you have a unemployment related question you need answered—ask Tom! He's today's expert. Post your questions below.

tryansf on May 12, 2009 - 2:56pm

Welcome to the Unemployment Lifeline. It's set up to help. There's a combination of local resources, a place to share comments and some other tools to help you during this transition period. If you have questions or comments write to us and we'll do our best to help. This is one way the labor movement has your back.
Please stay involved. We can solve these issues together better than we can on our own.
Tom

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