Helping Federal Workers Move Forward
The recent wave of layoffs and furloughs affecting federal workers has sent ripples through our community. As the number of job losses increased, I began thinking about what Capital Photography Center could do to help those affected navigate through such challenging times.
Creating a Community Response
I reached out to my instructor, the exceptionally talented photographer Laura Hatcher, and the generous team at Eaton House Coworking, and together we came up with a plan to offer support and a sense of empowerment: "Life After Public Service – Empowering the Next Step." This two-day event was designed specifically to provide tangible assistance to former federal employees as they transition to their next chapters.
A Two-Day Event
The event offered attendees complimentary professional headshots, essential for job applications and LinkedIn profiles, day passes to Eaton House Coworking to provide a productive space for their job search efforts, and discounts on a future photography class. Nando's restaurant also joined our efforts and generously provided free lunches for all attendees.
This effort would not have been possible without the generosity and collaboration of our community:
- Marie Joabar/Capital Photography Center, took charge of administrative coordination, registration, logistics, and communication, ensuring a seamless experience for all.
- Eaton House DC graciously hosted the event, offering a welcoming and professional co-working space for attendees to include 5 free passes.
- Laura Hatcher Photography, brought a full portrait studio to give each attendee a complimentary professional headshot, helping them refresh their LinkedIn profiles and job applications with confidence.
- Sun Lee, Laura’s former intern extraordinaire provided invaluable on-site support, managing the image editing & review station and capturing behind-the-scenes moments.
- Nando's Restaurant ensured that no one left hungry, providing tasty box lunches each day.
Impact and Outcomes
The gratitude expressed by those who attended was overwhelming. As I greeted each person, they consistently voiced thanks and appreciation for this gesture of community support.
What emerged was far more than just a service event. The space transformed into a hub of activity: some participants stayed after their photo sessions to work on resumes, others engaged in spontaneous networking, while many simply appreciated the chance to reconnect with former coworkers in a positive environment.
A Powerful Experience of Community
The experience was simultaneously heartbreaking and heartwarming—a stark reminder of how sudden job loss affects real people with families and responsibilities, yet it was incredibly moving to see the resilience and hope that emerged from the community coming together to support one another.
In times of uncertainty, these simple acts of community can provide not just practical help, but also the equally important message that no one faces these challenges alone.
The gift of support, understanding, and empathy requires relatively little from those who give, yet it can make a profound difference to those receiving it.
Reflections from Our Team
This collaborative effort wouldn't have been possible without the dedication and vision of several key contributors. Below, Laura Hatcher, her assistant Sun Lee, and the team at Eaton House Coworking share their perspectives on the event and what it meant to them:
Eaton House: "At Eaton House, supporting our recently terminated federal workers was a deeply personal endeavor for us. It wasn’t just about offering a physical space but about creating a welcoming haven where those impacted could breathe, connect with others who understood their journey, and envision a new future with hope and support. Witnessing people coming together, sharing their stories, and uplifting one another was a powerful reminder that no one should face uncertainty alone.
While the event provided a modicum of encouragement for those in attendance, it is only the beginning. As part of our mission, Eaton DC and Eaton House are committed to continuing to be a third space, a sanctuary beyond home and work, where people are welcome to gather, heal, and rebuild amidst a community that believes in your next chapter.
Of course, none of this would be possible without the support of our inspiring partners Capital Photography Center, Laura Hatcher Photography and Nando’s who truly embody the spirit of community through their generosity and care."
Laura Hatcher "This event was about showing up for people when they needed it most—something I understand firsthand from my own career transition after military service. Suddenly having to reinvent yourself can feel overwhelming, isolating, and uncertain.
The occasion became more than just a resource; it turned into a networking space where attendees shared stories, found camaraderie, and supported one another. The gratitude and positivity exchanged over these two days were a powerful reminder that even small acts of kindness can create lasting ripples of impact.
To those who attended, we hope you walked away with more than just a headshot—we hope you left feeling seen, supported, and empowered for your next chapter.
If this story resonates with you, I encourage you to pay it forward. Whether it’s offering a resource, making an introduction, or simply reminding someone of their worth, every gesture counts."
Sun Lee: "What actions can we take to heal and repair our community? How can we offer service to those disproportionately affected by what is happening?
Supporting “Life After Public Service” as an emerging photographer taught me how we could harness the power of photography to serve a community. In a time of need, we were able to offer fresh headshots done with care and a space to gather & network, share food, and find solace in one another.
This was by far one of the most meaningful opportunities I was a part of—I got to witness creativity and collaborative businesses in action, something I hope I can practice as a photographer in the future.
It was so powerful to learn that you don’t have to have endless resources to take even the smallest of actions—and that you don’t have to do it alone. I am incredibly grateful and proud to be part of this effort championed by two local photography businesses."
A very special thanks to Eaton House Coworking, Laura Hatcher Photography, her amazing assistant Sun Lee, and Nando's Restaurant.