As the 19th Annual Taste of Soul Family Festival returns to the heart of Los Angeles, attracting more than 350,000 attendees with at least 150 food offerings, it brings much more than just delicious cuisine.
Among the many booths celebrating Black culture and community, Chrysalis, a nonprofit organization that empowers individuals navigating barriers to employment, will once again be present, recruiting new talent and offering vital services to the community.
Chrysalis, which has been serving Los Angeles since 1984, has participated in the Taste of Soul festival for the past three years. This year, they aim to continue building connections with festivalgoers by offering job opportunities and support services.
Mark Loranger, president and CEO of Chrysalis, shared his enthusiasm for their ongoing involvement in the event, saying, “We started doing the event three years ago because we understood the connection to the communities that Chrysalis serves.”
Chrysalis will have a vendor booth where attendees can learn about permanent positions available through the organization. Job seekers can even apply on the spot using a QR code that directs them to Chrysalis’ career page, www.changelives.org/careers.
In addition to recruitment, Chrysalis will be looking for new clients—individuals who need assistance breaking into or returning to the workforce. The nonprofit’s job-readiness program offers one-on-one support services at any of six centers and locations where clients receive help with resume building, interview preparation, and even professional attire for interviews.
Reflecting on the festival’s importance to Chrysalis, Loranger added, “Our booth allows us to engage directly with the community, hear client success stories, and offer our services to those who need them. It’s a special opportunity for us to connect with returning clients and encourage new ones to take advantage of the support we offer.”
Chrysalis focuses on helping those facing homelessness, those who have been involved in the justice system, and others struggling with barriers to employment. Their mission aligns with the spirit of Taste of Soul, which celebrates Black culture, resilience, and community. Over the years, Chrysalis has successfully recruited dozens of clients through their booth at the festival, often hearing inspiring stories from individuals who once utilized Chrysalis’ services and have since found stability and success in their careers.
“We’re proud to offer transitional employment opportunities, but we’re just as dedicated to helping individuals find permanent, long-term jobs. Our goal is to ensure that our clients not only get hired but also thrive in their positions,” Loranger said. He noted that in 2023 alone, Chrysalis’ clients secured jobs paying an average of $19.50 per hour—above minimum wage—and that the organization’s retention rate remains around 70%.
For Loranger, hiring from the local community is not just a business decision but a crucial way of strengthening the social fabric. “Hiring folks from your own community is a really smart business decision. They’re going to be your most hardworking, loyal employees,” he explained.
“We sometimes have to set aside the preconceived notions we might have about someone’s past. What might have been their worst day doesn’t define them for the rest of their life. If we focus on potential and the future, it’s the right thing to do and it makes smart business sense.”
Chrysalis is also deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as core principles in its mission. Loranger emphasized the importance of having an organization that reflects the community it serves.
“We’re serving probably 70% BIPOC communities, and our staff better represent that,” he said. “If not, how can we truly deliver on our mission? Whether you’re a nonprofit or a retailer, if you’re not hiring from your community, you’re not serving it effectively. Diversity brings value to organizations by enriching perspectives and improving outcomes.”
Chrysalis’ DEI efforts are more than just a box to check—they are an essential part of the organization’s success.
“We’re not backing down from DEI, we’re doubling down on it,” Loranger stated. “It’s not just about checking a quota; it’s about tapping into the richness of human experience that comes from diverse backgrounds. For us, DEI isn’t a trend—it’s a fundamental part of who we are as an organization, and it makes us better at serving our clients.”
The Taste of Soul Family Festival is the perfect backdrop for Chrysalis to continue making an impact on the community. Whether you’re seeking a new career path or looking to support a loved one in finding work, the Chrysalis booth is ready to offer guidance, support, and the chance to change lives through jobs.
For more information about Chrysalis and the job opportunities they offer, visit http://www.changelives.org/careers or stop by their booth at this year’s Taste of Soul festival.
