Finding Purpose Through Service: Life After Public Service Event Recap

"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others."
- Mahatma Gandhi.

Support Our Civil Servants

On March 26 & 27, 2025, I had the privilege of teaming up with some incredible friends and local DC-area businesses to support our federal employee community, many of whom have been suddenly laid off due to the new administration’s downsizing efforts.

Together, we created Life After Public Service – Empowering Your Next Chapter, a two-day event designed to provide tangible resources, encouragement, and a sense of solidarity to over 60 displaced civil servants navigating career transitions.

This effort would not have been possible without the generosity and collaboration of our community:

• Eaton House DC graciously hosted the event, offering a welcoming and professional co-working space for attendees to include 5 free passes.
• Nando's Restaurant ensured that no one left hungry, providing tasty box lunches each day
• Marie Joabar, founder of Capital Photography Center, took charge of administrative coordination, registration, logistics, and communication, ensuring a seamless experience for all.
• Sun Lee, my former intern extraordinaire and friend, provided invaluable on-site support, managing the image editing & review station and capturing behind-the-scenes moments.
• Laura Hatcher Photography, I brought a full portrait studio to give each attendee a complimentary professional headshot, helping them refresh their LinkedIn profiles and job applications with confidence. We edited and emailed the image to the attendee within 5 minutes of finishing the session.

More Than Just an Event—A Community in Action

What happened over these two days was more than just a service—it was a testament to the power of community, kindness, and resilience. Attendees walked in with uncertainty and left with renewed confidence. The impact was evident not only in the incredible turnout but also in the heartfelt words shared by those we served:

"Laura Hatcher Photography is fantastic! Such professional headshot service, and the portraits look amazing. I definitely recommend Laura and her team—particularly if you're job-hunting and need some pro shots. Thank you!"

"Laura and her team made me feel comfortable and truly photogenic. Their work is commendable, helping professionals across different agencies regain confidence with beautiful, professional headshots. Thank you so much!"

"In a season of adversity, Laura Hatcher Photography LLC was a gleam of hope and humanity. I attended the Life After Public Service event, unsure of what to expect. But when I tell you my experience was the exact opposite of what I imagined, I truly mean it."

One attendee’s reflection truly resonated:

"Not only was the professionalism top tier, but Laura treated me like a valued client. She was warm, inviting, and attentive. She even adjusted my clothing to ensure I looked my best, took four photos, and gave me the opportunity to choose the one I liked most. As I walked away, my first thought was: If she treats a non-paying client like this, I can only imagine how incredible the experience is for her paying clients. Laura, thank you for being a bright light in such uncertain times."

Paying It Forward

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.