Dave

“Brick + Board believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. They gave me a sense of self-worth and responsibility. Now, instead of running from my problems, I deal with them right then and there. I’m proud of the work we do. I’m grateful.”

Due to a criminal background and history of drug addiction, Dave found it hard to find steady work – something he could “really hold on to.” It wasn’t until a member of his NA Fellowship introduced him to Humanim’s workforce training programs that he realized instead of doing it on his own, he needed help.

After completing Humanim’s customer service training program, Dave interviewed with Humanim’s social enterprise Details Deconstruction and was hired on the spot. His strong work ethic caught the attention of his supervisor, and six months later, he was recruited to work for Humanim’s newest social enterprise at the time, Brick + Board. Since starting his employment almost two years ago, Dave has quickly risen through the ranks to become Warehouse Foreman, overseeing the entire warehouse operations for Brick + Board.

Dave enjoys his work, especially the hands-on process of working with materials, and seeing the finished product which he says gives him a sense of pride. He describes his colleagues at Brick + Board as a “tight-knit group, a family,” and is referred to in turn as “more than just a great worker, he’s a leader, role model, and friend.”

Reyna

was brought to Akola Project through Advocates of Community Transformation. She had been seeking a higher income opportunity to support her family and further her education. Since starting at Akola, Reyna has shined both personally and professionally and is now empowering other Akola women to recognize their potential for success.

Marlena

For 80 years, Edmundite Missions, a Catholic social service agency, has served the poor in Selma, Alabama. Marlena is a life-long resident of Selma. She first came to Edmundite Missions as a client, seeking food and support, like so many in this Deep South town where 43% of people and 60% of children live in poverty. Soon, Marlena offered to volunteer in the Bosco Nutrition Center to which so many turn for their only hot meal of the day. Her dedication led to a part time job as a server. With the creation of Edmundite Missions Enterprises — the new social enterprise operating out of the Edmundit Missions soup kitchen and marketing foods nationally — Marlena was not only able to become a full-time employee with full benefits, but is training to be a baker and chef, under the tutelage of Chef Harry Dominick, the Director of Bosco. Her future is now one of possibilities.

Rob

“RecycleForce never turned their backs on me. I now have a sense of responsibility to
help people who did the same things I’ve done. When I started, I just didn’t want to be
back on the streets. As I got into the organization, I moved up. Now as warehouse
manager I know that RecycleForce needs me and I know that I belong. If I can do it, I
know I can help other people do it. It’s not just a paycheck; they helped me get a
driver’s license and a place to stay. I’ve been here almost 5 years and everything is
getting easier. Now I coach people to show up and get through tough days. Work is
therapy. People think of RecycleForce as recycling electronic waste. We really recycle
people’s lives to get back to their families or communities. I’m proud to be a part of this
organization. It works.”

Teiana

“I was battling addiction and in a bad relationship. I ended up living in a crummy camper. My partner was arrested and I finally had a chance to get away. It was easy to get treatment, and after a while I got into a shelter where I had my own room and could stay with my dog Cleo. I then got on a waiting list for permanent housing. These places had employment services, which really helped me. I got a referral to Central City Concern’s (CCC) Employment Access Center, and then began CCC’s On-call Staffing 6-month training program.
I hadn’t worked in a long time. The training program was flexible so I didn’t get overwhelmed or burned-out. It gave me confidence and helped me get my rhythm back. Now I have an ID, bank accounts, permanent housing and a full time job in property maintenance. I’m building my credit back up and hope to return to school. I feel like I’ve woken out of a long coma and can now enjoy things like walking my dog, celebrating holidays and watching the seasons change.”

Deron

discovered Landforce, and our combined workforce development and land stewardship opportunity, through one of our Crew Leader’s, Shawn. He randomly bumped into Shawn when he was running errands, and during their brief chat Shawn mentioned that Landforce was hiring and if he needed work he should apply. Soon after that conversation Deron did just that. During his time at Landforce he described his experience as challenging, but motivating. As he said in his exit interview, “It’s the hardest working job that I’ve had. I never enjoyed working at other jobs the way that I do here.” He expressed that the entire staff really encouraged him, especially Workforce Development and Outreach Manager Tiffany, and Crew Leader, Nate. Nate was instrumental in teaching trail building, tool use, and was a good role model. Tiffany helped navigate the court system and facilitated the process for him to get his driver’s license reinstated. Through his association with Landforce he successfully completed a construction training program with a partner organization and has secured a family-sustaining position with Ryco Plumbing as an apprentice.

Ursula

“When my son and I immigrated from the Phillipines to Seattle, Washington, I didn’t think I would be able to find stability and security in my life, especially after being diagnosed with the degenerative eye disease, Retinitis Pigmentosa. This eventually led to my complete loss of vision. Raising a son gave me the courage to meet my responsibilities to provide for him, and I was determined to take on the challenge! I started by going to the Orientation Training Center of the Washington State Department of Services for the Blind. Through DSB, I was able to find a job at The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. as one of their first Customer Service Representatives. My employment at the Lighthouse opened up new positive opportunities and skills. After a couple years of successfully maintaining a position in the Contact Center, I had the chance to take my administrative skills to a new role in the Purchasing Department. I applied and was hired! I still work there to this day. With my job here at the Lighthouse, I feel like a part of a family. I have wonderful support, a job that I love doing and I feel like I have developed into a whole person. The Lighthouse has brought me the stability and security I thought I would never have as a person with a disability. It is here that I found my wonderful husband and life partner! I am blessed!

Sokun

Sokun was born into a big family residing in a rural village in Cambodia. Her family grows crops and raises chickens to earn an income, but her mother’s illness and father’s elderly age often make it difficult to do so. Sokun has been enrolled in the Freedom’s Promise sewing program for three years; the first year and a half as a sewing student, and the other year and a half as an employee. When asked what she enjoyed most about her experience so far, Sokun said, “’I love everything about the program, particularly the sewing teacher. Neakro (Sewing Teacher) is very gracious, kind and loving towards me and my situations.”
Through learning sewing skills, Sokun has been able to earn income to lighten the financial burden of her family, build new friendships, and is optimistic about opening her own tailor shop in the next few years.

Gloria

: “I lost my job after 15 years when the company was bought out and the new owner brought in all new staff. I had to go on unemployment, but it wasn’t enough to pay rent. I went to the Union Rescue Mission, where I lived for seven months. Then, I got access to a permanent home through SRO Housing. I got involved with the Downtown Women’s Center in 2010, when its second building opened. I always liked hobbies and crafts, and I think the Center offers so much to the community. So I checked the schedule and got involved in every program and volunteer opportunity I could. I have a good life here. I do hand and machine sewing, and I make soap, block prints, book cover-bound journals, and candles. I’ve also always liked photography, and I’ve been able to take some classes to improve my photography skills. I’m thankful because if I had not come to the Skid Row area, I’m sure I never would learned about all these programs and gotten involved… A longer-term goal of mine is to start a website and sell my crafts and photographs online.”

Bryan

: “Every veteran has a story. My story took an unexpected turn when in 2010 I was injured in a vehicle rollover accident in Afghanistan. I was left with many injuries including a broken neck and a traumatic brain injury. It seemed that everywhere I went, everyone was telling me what I couldn’t do. As my depression spiraled out of control, I hit rock bottom and moved my family back to our home state of Indiana under the auspice that I needed “some space, “ when in fact I was planning to take my own life. After a failed suicide attempt, I was invited to a REBOOT Combat Recovery group. I began to healed and I kept coming back. Soon, I was leading others through the 12 week combat trauma healing course. Today, I lead a weekly REBOOT meeting for hurting military families and have just graduated with a degree in social work from Lipscomb University.”

Magdalena

: “I was living in Sacramento with my husband and children. My husband and I had a fight, and he left our family and took our children. I was very depressed after that. Nothing felt worth it for me anymore. I moved to Los Angeles in 2009, but when I got there, I couldn’t find a job or pay for housing. I spent three months at the Union Rescue Mission. One day, I needed a place to do laundry, so a friend introduced me to the Downtown Women’s Center and told me I could do my laundry there for free. When I got there, a staff member made sure I had everything I needed, and my laundry was done the next day. I filled out a housing application and moved into the Downtown Women’s Center (DWC) in 2011. I was invited to try the SET to Create program [DWC’s workforce development program] after moving into DWC. When I first tried the candle making workshop, I liked it right away because it was like aromatherapy. I found it very relaxing. I make a lot of products now — candles, soaps, ornaments, and block printed cards. It takes a lot of concentration and patience. I have a lot of fun here.”

Terry

: Terry is the kind of person everyone wants as a co-worker: reliable, hard-working, positive, approachable, friendly and fun. Over the past 31 years, Terry has become a part of the colorful landscape of Skagit Gardens where he works full-time in the wholesale division. “I love my job and the people I work with,” said Terry. Terry’s dream job began in 1985 with an interview arranged by Jim Halpin at Chinook Enterprises. Things could not have worked out better. “The money I earn allows me to travel, eat my favorite meal (biscuits and gravy) at my favorite restaurant, and even help buy the family car.” Terry loves earning and saving money. But you’ll often find him spending it on important items­—like flowers for his mother. When asked about a retirement date, Terry replied, “Maybe when I’m 70!” – many years from now! All who know Terry would agree that his smile and contagious laugh are guaranteed to bring sunshine, even on the greyest of days in the Great Northwest.

Glenn

: “After being released from a long prison sentence, I was placed in a halfway house until I could obtain employment and housing. I was concerned that if I was able to find a job at all, it would be in an environment where I might not be given the chance to demonstrate my character, utilize my skills or learn new skills. Mile High Workshop was an answered prayer. I was given those opportunities, and have been blessed to work with staff and other clients who have been wonderfully compassionate, patient and helpful with the challenges of reintegrating into society. Mile High has helped me obtain interview/training clothing, steel-toed shoes, bus passes, furniture and a computer. They’ve helped me interact with state agencies, process life issues in a group setting and further develop skills in areas such as conflict resolution. Now, I have graduated the Woodshop Apprentice program, and will soon be directing an industrial ceramics manufacturing education program being developed at Mile High. I have been so blessed to work with such caring people and be given such incredible opportunities; I am very thankful.”

Ruben

: “When I first got involved with Harvest Hands CDC, I had been in the United States for six months and I could barely speak the language. I was in 5th grade and I struggled in school because of the language barrier. The staff at Harvest Hands would always encourage and help me. When Harvest Hands opened their social enterprise microbusiness, Humphreys Street Coffee & Soap, I was the first employee. The job gave me a sense of purpose. At HSC&S I was always encouraged to do my best and to take pride in everything I did. I grew up in HSC&S and I went from being a shy student to a leader within my community. Now I train students on the roasting process, teach them how to take pride in what they do and how to be responsible young men ready for the next step in life.”

Greg

: When Greg left his job due to unfavorable working conditions, he found that options were extremely limited for a nearly 60 year old with a severely disabled knee. Despite his attempts at attaining employment, he became homeless, often staying at a local shelter or in a tent. But Greg didn’t give up – he knew he could be a great employee. Finally, he discovered OWL Inc., which provided him with vocational rehabilitation services and a position in their manufacturing division. His strong work ethic paid off and he was quickly offered a full-time position, allowing Greg to move into his own apartment, ending 16 months of homelessness. When asked about his story, Greg says, “OWL was my last shot at getting a job. I love it here. People are kind and treat me with respect. My life has completely changed.”

Robby

: “During my deployment to Afghanistan, I was injured during a foot patrol when an improvised explosive device detonated close to my fighting position. I sustained a Traumatic Brain Injury. After my service in the United States military I focused on finding my purpose again and started working with HEAVENDROPt, which repurposes used military parachutes while employing veterans with disabilities. I discovered that I could use my military background, my sales knowledge and my experience working with veterans with disabilities to help develop and distribute these products. This organization gave me a second chance at fulfilling my purpose and great respect for the people with disabilities that we serve. As a combat wounded/disabled veteran, there are hard times and difficult circumstances which make organizations like HEAVENDROPt a life-changer.”

Sandra

: After becoming unemployed, Sandra was trying to figure out next steps for herself and her 4 year old daughter. She joined Bright Endeavors to find support and stable employment. During her time at Bright Endeavors, Sandra has had the opportunity to reflect on who she wants to become and begin to shape a new vision for her life. She shares: “I want to stand out in a positive way, inside and out. I want my performance and the positive vibe I have to be noticed and appreciated. I want my family to be stable in all areas of life, mentally, physically and financially.” As Sandra moves on from Bright Endeavors, she is determined to pursue her goals. “I see my future and me accomplishing my goals. I need the skills and determination to get what I want. I want to keep growing in confidence and persevere even when I fall. You have to work for what you want.”

Mandie

: “My life was in a downward spiral. I was two months behind on my bills and my car was repossessed. I started living out of a hotel to be closer to work, but it was still two miles each way and soon my doctor told me that I had stress fractures in my feet. I coached myself that I could overcome the pain until one day the it became unbearable. Out of options, I started paying a cab $10 each way. The cost of cab rides was overwhelming. Unable to reach my goals of gaining transportation and independence, I started to give up. I couldn’t even count on my own two feet anymore and I truly felt hopeless. While on my route home one day, I noticed a Catholic Charities of Fort Worth Transportation Bus and felt a glimmer of hope. I called the number and the voice on the other end was full of grace. It’s hard to put into words how wonderful it felt to be treated so kindly, when I’d become used to being treated as less. After just one call to CCFW, I wasn’t having to walk anymore because I’d been provided an affordable, reliable solution. Within two months, my life turned around. I’d saved up enough to purchase my car. I’ve been promoted twice at work and am working on my Bachelor’s degree in Business Management. I am married. I am buying a home. Life will never be the same. CCFW is a true support system for the entire journey out of poverty. I’m here because Catholic Charities Fort Worth changed my life and I want to do everything I can to change more lives.”

Anthony

: Anthony had lost nearly everything when drugs hijacked his life. After completing a drug rehab program, he moved to Seattle but ended up living in a tent in The Jungle, a Seattle homeless encampment. He was tired of trying to survive when he heard about FareStart. After attending the open orientation, he knew he was in the right place. Anthony attributes FareStart’s ability to transform people’s’ lives to the quality of its chef instructors’ culinary knowledge, the positive encouragement during the hands-on training and the life skills education. “If you don’t master life skills, who would want to work with you?” he said. “You can be taught drive and ambition, but you also learn to accept encouragement, love and warmth.” Anthony now works in the kitchen of one of the country’s fastest growing mobile marketing tech companies. “Without FareStart, I’d still be in a tent in The Jungle, trapped having to survive day to day, struggling to get the essentials.”

Davann

: After Davann graduated from high school, her family struggled with financial challenges and were unable to send her to college. Despite these challenges, Davann was committed to helping her family make ends meet and began working as a manual laborer at a grocery store. There, she was required to lift and carry around 100 pound cases of beverage a day. The new-found job inflicted excruciating pain to her small body and she resigned after only a few months. Davann continued to work several odd jobs, but found that she wasn’t passionate about waking up and going to work each day. Since enrolling in the Freedom’s Promise vocational training program, Davann has a new-found sense of purpose and excitement. “I feel content to be part of this program,” Davann says. “My life is better. This program offers the knowledge and skills for me to be able to sew clothes for customers and to earn income to support my family. The thought of being able to sew clothes with my own hands for my children thrills me.”

Dale

: Dale is a single dad who struggled to find employment after his severe arthritis forced him to leave his career as a truck mechanic. His savings began to run out, and soon he and his daughter Melissa were homeless. “We didn’t have anywhere to go and we were forced to live in our car. I was lost and I didn’t know what to do. Ultimately, I reached out to the Department of Veterans Affairs and they connected me to UMOM New Day Centers. I enrolled in the Homegrown Training Program to expand my skills and find a job in the restaurant industry. While in the program I quickly discovered how much I enjoyed working with people and being a barista.” After Dale completed the Homegrown Training Program, he secured a job at Starbucks. He is happy and is on his way to saving money for a car. Dale and his daughter are now living in a two bedroom townhouse, and are both looking forward to a bright future. “UMOM has changed our lives in so many ways. They bring you in, they feed you, put a roof over your head and help you find employment. The staff really cared about my family and they have given us a positive outlook on life. Thank you!”

Kendra

: “I had just graduated from high school in 1990 and had a bright future ahead of me. However, all that was soon to end as I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in the fall of that year and hospitalized. It was the beginning of a series of hospitalizations and the beginning of my problem with kidney failure and weight gain. I thought there was no hope. My doctor told me I should be eligible for a kidney transplant, except for one thing: I needed to lose weight. How was I to do that? Then, I heard Tash from The New Beginnings Center speak about her program and the fact that the program would be free for me due to my income. But it was not until January 2016 – after I had fallen, bruised my knee and could not heal from it due to my weight – that I came into the The New Beginnings Center. I was 5’3” and wearing a size 20. Now, I have lost 40 lbs and am a size 16. My knee healed up and on February 2, 2017 I was approved for the kidney transplant. Where would I be without TNBC? I don’t know.”

Ignacio

: “When I was first diagnosed with the eye disease Macular Degeneration in my late twenties, I didn’t think much about how it would really affect my future. It’s a disease that deteriorates the center of the retina. Little by little, my eyesight diminished. Over time, I couldn’t read without magnification, I couldn’t drive, and tripped over obstacles when walking. I managed until age 50 when I found myself unemployed and facing the stigma against my age and vision. Determined to work, I attended a job fair where I learned about The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. in Seattle. They had a job opening for a Sales Clerk at one of their supply stores. My hope was renewed! With my sales background, I was a perfect fit. Their mission is to create job opportunities and independence for people who are blind. The mission means more than just a job. Working allows me support my family, my community, and gives meaning to my life. It helps me feel like I belong.” Ignacio, affectionately nicknamed “Nacho”, earned the prestigious Employee of the Year award from The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. He, along with other agency winners nationwide, will compete for the Peter J. Salmon Award presented at the annual National Industries for the Blind conference this fall.

Jill

: “At first, I didn’t want to get out.” That’s how Jill felt about being released from prison. Jill wanted her freedom, but she also recognized the challenges before her. After some further reflection, Jill left the prison determined and motivated to move forward. She didn’t wait long before coming to Project Return. “I had to do it for myself first,” Jill said. “But my daughter was always a top priority.” PROe – Project Return’s social enterprise – gave Jill the opportunity to get a job right away, contributing to the new beginning she was building for herself. After a few months, she was hired by Project Return’s employment partner onto their staff in a full-time position. “[PROe] made me realize that I’m capable,” Jill said. “I can do an honest day’s work, and it feels good.”

Joe

: Joe and his wife lost their jobs and, as the bills started to pile up, their home. “As a father, it was hard to tell my kids that we had to leave our house and had nowhere to go. It made me feel like less of a man.” With the help of the Family Housing Hub, Joe and his family found emergency shelter at UMOM New Day Centers. “With UMOM’s help we are working on ending our homelessness and getting back on track. The culinary program is helping me with job training. I am learning about the food industry including knife skills, food temperature, plating, and more. Once I complete the program I’ll be qualified to work in a restaurant and can one day launch a food truck business, something that I would really enjoy doing.” Now Joe’s family is on track to find full-time employment and move into a new apartment. “UMOM has given us hope and is helping me achieve my dream of becoming a cook and one day launching my own business.”

Tina

“If there was a new fad diet or a quick fix weight loss scheme, I had tried them all. I am 52 years old and I knew if I wanted to see 53, things had to change. A friend had been going to The New Beginnings Center and suggested I give it a try. After one class, I knew this program was going to change my life. The coaches and all the women involved are so helpful and encouraging. They have given me the knowledge and the tools I needed to succeed. In the last 12 weeks, I have learned to become a healthier me. I have become more determined, stronger and more self-confident. I can truly say from the bottom of my heart that Tash, Marielle and New Beginnings saved my life.”

Beth

: “When I started doing visual art, I started seeing the world for the first time instead of feeling like I was being watched or that everyone was looking at me. I’m a human sex trafficking survivor and a domestic violence survivor. Something heinous happened to me in 2013. Right now I’m working on this rag doll, which is giving me perspective on objectification, especially of women. This doll helps me to remember my body and myself as alive. Before, I didn’t believe I was seen as a person of agency, that I had an opinion, or experience, or even that I had an inner life, a life of the mind. So it makes me feel like a person of value and worth to see the thoughts from my head come to fruition in a visual and tactile sense, in something I can hold in my hand. I’ve done a lot of stitching and re-stitching on her, which is actually what rag dolls are for, in part: to work on your work. They’re easy to mend. Endlessly creating, endlessly created.” Beth is one of the artists at Poverty & the Arts, a creative community transforming homelessness in Nashville.

Brittany

: “Sometimes I think that when people look at me, all they can see is my tattoos. What they may not see is a driven young woman who wants to go to college and become a doctor so she can help others. As a child, I would play doctor all the time. One day my grandmother bought me a real stethoscope and for weeks I would go around listening to everyone’s heart beat. I dream of learning the secrets of the human body, but for years I kept my dream hidden because I was afraid that people might say I couldn’t do it. When I got to Civicorps, I finally felt like I had the courage to speak about my dreams. Nobody looked at me differently because of my tattoos. The teachers here pushed me to do my best – to chase my dreams. They believed in me. Now, I’m heading off to community college for a couple of years until I transfer to San Jose State University. After that, it’s on to medical school. Civicorps gave me the confidence to dream and provided me with the tools and opportunities I needed to chase my dream.”

Charlotte

: “My name is Charlotte and I am Women’s Bean Project. I come from a hard background. I was born a full blown heroin baby and was on Methadone until I was 8 years old. By about 10, I was off of Methadone and started smoking pot and drinking. That’s when my uncle began shooting me up with cocaine so that he and other family members could have power over me to do as they pleased. I never told anyone because telling could have your life taken from you, and giving myself up to them kept my younger sister and cousin from being hurt.

At 11, I got involved with meth, which I’ve been on for the last 19 years. Today I am serving a 3 year sentence at a halfway house and have been sober for one year and two months. It’s hard to not give up because every day is a continuous struggle. I never had a choice to grow up. I never had schooling and most importantly, I’ve never been given a chance. When I heard about Women’s Bean Project I didn’t think anything of it. I was just hard up for a job. However, now that I am here and involved, I realize it is more than just a job. They are helping me with my education, job skills, computer skills, and training that I didn’t know I needed in order to get a steady job.

Women’s Bean Project is giving me the opportunity to make positive choices and to figure out what I like doing, where I want to go in life, and who I want to be. The way they make this happen is by caring. All I ever wanted is to be cared for. I don’t want to feel alone or unloved or to have no self-worth. I’m judged all the time because of my background. Every day when I’m at work, I’m safe.”

JoAnn

: “For some time, I’d noticed a decrease in my strength and mobility – physical things weren’t as easy to do as they once were. Also, as a heart attack survivor on a variety of medications, my cardiologist had recently recommended, as a result of my blood work results, the addition of another medication that I would self-inject daily – for the rest of my life. It was time for a lifestyle change. I learned of The New Beginnings Center from a Facebook friend, whose praise of the strength she gained piqued my interest. Since joining the program in fall of 2016, my unfavorable levels have dropped significantly, that new medication is no longer needed, I can do strenuous physical activities again, and as a super-bonus, my weight is down nearly 35 pounds! Aside from these measurable improvements, through this program I’ve learned to care for myself spiritually, mentally, and physically – AND gained a network of caring staff and wonderful, new friends.”

Ida

: A year after here release from prison, Ida came to Primavera Works for employment assistance. She was temporarily staying with her sister, and was struggling with seemingly insurmountable barriers to finding a job – a history of drug abuse, criminal history and lack of job experience.

At Primavera Works, Ida found the support she needed. She was placed on a janitorial assignment, where she received on the job training and support services. More importantly, she found the motivation to succeed. “Primavera helped me stay focused, pushed me to get out there and get a real job and not give up”.

Today Ida has her own apartment and is working part time while she goes to school. She is now focused on the future – raising her kids, working to obtain her GED, and getting her civil rights restored.

Tevin

: Sometimes, all a young dreamer needs is a boost. Tevin graduated from Liberty’s Kitchen‘s training program in 2011, one of their first trainees to enter the workforce. He enjoyed cooking, but dreamed of a career in the arts. While he built security for himself through a series of culinary jobs, Liberty’s Kitchen staff worked with him on his dream. They connected him with a mentor in graphic design, and he did the rest. Five years later, Tevin is pursuing an art degree at Delgado Community College and working as a youth design mentor with the Youth Empowerment Project. He stopped by Liberty’s Kitchen recently with a big smile on his face and an invitation he’d designed, saying “Now, everything I do is something I’m proud of.”

Vanessa

: 25 years old, Vanessa has two children, ages 5 and 8. They live in a struggling village in Honduras called Monte de los Olivos.

Just a few years ago, the community was living in shacks made of old aluminum siding and tarps on the river banks of El Progreso, the more populated city just 10 miles away. The local government considered them an eyesore and wanted them removed. They were soon relocated to a small palm plantation where they now live. Here, they were left with no access to clean water, housing or means to make a living.

Over the next four years, various nonprofits came to their aid, building new homes, a school, and installing a water well. Despite this progress, one key element was missing: a long-term, sustainable way to provide for themselves and their families.

“I never thought I’d see myself like this,” said Vanessa. “I see myself as a hard worker, I don’t see myself as a failure because I’m always looking towards that better future.”

That hope for a “better future” is exactly what motivates Soles4Souls to provide an opportunity for Vanessa. She’s a hard worker. She’s resourceful. She just needs a chance.

Today Vanessa is involved in Soles4Souls micro-enterprise program, a unique, sustainable solution to poverty that repurposes new and gently used shoes to help entrepreneurs start small businesses. Vanessa and community members have organized a co-op and now have a small location to sell shoes from.

“If we are going to do this, we want to do it together,” says Vanessa. “It doesn’t help if I’m the only one in the village who is being prosperous. But it does help if all of us are being prosperous. We want to set an example, and grow together, so that we’re ALL successful!”

Ebonee

: By the age of 12, Ebonee was living independently on the streets of Seattle. The need for money, food and shelter drove her into learning the street trade of hustling and surviving.

After being incarcerated, she was sent to a Pioneer Human Services work release and learned that Pioneer Industries hired and trained formerly incarcerated individuals. Ebonee was hired and learned every machine she could get her hands on in the plant. She then applied and was accepted into the aerospace manufacturing apprenticeship.

“I figured if I committed myself to a life of self-destruction in the past, I could now commit myself to a positive lifestyle and conquer this program. When I graduate, I will be the first journeywoman from Pioneer. I feel very blessed to have such an opportunity, and I am really focusing so I can excel.”

In addition to Pioneer’s aerospace manufacturing apprenticeship, Ebonee is in college getting her Bachelor of Applied Science in Marketing and Entrepreneurship. She has a 4.0 grade point so far.

Willie

: “I was the class clown in school, but that led me to hang out with the wrong crowd.” Willie was a happy kid, but he was introduced to drugs and dropped out of school at 17. Willie also lost his sister and father. For several years, Willie worked a fast food job but it became a dead end. He bounced around after that between jobs. All of this led to Willie’s homelessness. “I went from couch to couch and spent some nights on the streets and in bus stops.” Willie eventually came to St. Patrick Center for help. “My case manager helped me with my resume and I was hired by the McMurphy’s employment training program, one of the best days of my life.” He learned a lot of food industry skills and was promoted to assistant manager at McMurphy’s Café. St. Patrick Center also helped Willie find a nice apartment. Willie is hopeful about his future. With his Serv-Safe license, he may help friends run their new restaurant or open his own barbeque stand. “I’m going to do something productive with my life.”

Abram

: “In prison I started to recondition my brain that I needed to study, find an apprenticeship and earn legal money. My past life was done – I couldn’t do it anymore.”

In the federal reentry center, Abram heard about Pioneer Human Services’ job training and aerospace manufacturing academy. After being accepted and graduating from the programs, Pioneer Industries hired him on the manufacturing floor and he was selected for the four-year aerospace manufacturing apprenticeship program that he will be graduating from as a master machinist/journeyman.

“Several people went out of their way to mentor me and help me along. When Pioneer offered to give me a shot at the aerospace apprenticeship it all clicked – this is what I had been planning for when I was in prison. Now I had the chance to earn good money and move up in my life using my brains.”

 

Katie

: Born into a family of untreated mental illness, at Katie 17 ran away with the first man who showed her affection. After giving birth to a little boy, her husband’s sole control of their income left them homeless. She found the courage to make changes and found work at Women’s Bean Project. “When I felt there was no hope and I had no strength left, the amazing people at Women’s Bean Project picked me up off the floor. The incredible support and compassion shown to me by every colleague and member of staff was powerful enough to keep me staggering forward. They cheered me on every step of the way to getting housing, taught me to love myself enough to not let an unhealthy relationship exist in my life, and prepared me to find employment elsewhere. Pushing me to always dream bigger. I have never had a truer family than the one that I have at Women’s Bean Project.”

A 2015-2016 graduate of Women’s Bean Project’s transitional employment program, Katie learned so much more than professional skills. “At Women’s Bean Project I learned that, sometimes when you find yourself in a dark place you feel like you’ve been buried, but in reality you’ve been planted. A dark place is nothing but an opportunity to grow, and this is exactly what I’ve done.”

 

Jahenda

: After joining Digital Divide Data’s work-study program in Kenya, Jahenda was, for the first time in her life, making some money to support herself as well as her mother and brother, when they were in a bind.

“I learned how to manage my salary,” she said. This was very important to her, because she wanted to learn how to live on her own, how to be independent. “Our work as women is often viewed as looking after our children or looking after our husbands. But if we women stand up and say ‘yes we can,’ then we can do anything. What a man can do, I can do it even better,” she added, determined. “Even the presidential seat—we can do it.”

Since September 2014, Jahenda has been studying for her Bachelors of Education Science in Chemistry/ Biology at Kenyatta University. After she graduates in 2018, she wants to earn her Master’s degree. Her plan is to teach at high school and eventually at the university level—and maybe, who knows!—go after that presidential seat.

Robert

: Though Robert was determined to find work after being released from prison for a first-time offense, a string of rejections from potential employers threatened to derail him. Homeless, unemployed, and ready for a change, Robert came to Chrysalis in search of a second chance.

The path to a new life started after Robert completed Chysalis’ series of job preparation classes and worked closely with volunteers to develop a resume and improve his interview skills. His diverse work history made him a great candidate for the transitional jobs program with Chrysalis Enterprises, and he quickly landed a temporary front desk position with SRO Housing. During this time, he continued his job search and, today, Robert is working full-time as a welder.

Being given a second chance and a renewed sense of hope means that Robert can finally envision a future that isn’t determined by his past. In his own words: “Chrysalis gave me a chance when nobody else would. You just have to keep trying. No matter how many times you get turned down, you can’t give up.”

Ray

: “If I had not started working at ACHIEVE Human Services, I would not be the man who stands before you today. Through this Agency, I have been provided a chance to exhibit my good qualities, and I have also been given a chance to express my knowledge in certain areas – writing, reading, working on computers, etc. ACHIEVE demonstrated, and continues to demonstrate, that there are always options for the temporarily incapacitated. ACHIEVE has provided me with an opportunity to believe that the only opinion I should care about is my own, and that belief is what led me to finally become a published author.”

Gary

: Employers would not look past Gary’s 10 years in prison to realize what a hardworking employee he could be. He spent years looking for a job to no avail, so he was overjoyed to be offered an opportunity – no questions asked – at Greyston through Open Hiring. Gary is proud to be a part of a team producing brownies for Ben & Jerry’s and Whole Foods Market and feels that he’s become a true team player, learning how to communicate well. Gary feels working at Greyston has also helped him with emotional, spiritual and physical stability and to overcome his fear of failing. “The opportunity has changed my life. I highly recommend that people who are looking for a chance look up Greyston and see how you, too, can become a team player!”

Larry

: Arrested for driving without a license, Larry had hit a few bumps in the road. He struggled with identifying his strengths and feeling like he wasn’t enough. He knew he was a hard worker, having spent years in the landscaping industry, yet wasn’t whole. As Larry says, “my wings were clipped.” After coming to Cleanslate, looking for a second chance, he got his wings again. He gained experience in graffiti removal and power washing, which fits neatly in his wheelhouse of skills. When asked what song describes his journey, there is no surprise that it is Fly like an Eagle by Seal. Spread your wings, Larry!

E

: As a survivor of human trafficking, E reflects on her work at Branded Collective: “We want people to understand where we’ve been. I try to balance everything I have to do and it’s not easy. Trying to find the balance between being the house mom, everything I have to do for myself, therapy, time with my loved ones and people who need support… It’s a lot – I get overwhelmed a lot. However, I’ve learned faith and patience. I found my faith in jail and I was taught a whole lot of patience. Now I know that everything happens at exactly the right time. Quit trying to rush it, just chill out.”

Nichole

: Before Human Technologies, Nichole described herself as vulnerable, in pieces and unsure. Now, working in Human Technologies‘ Environmental Services division, Nichole feels much stronger having a foundation of steady work. She happily describes herself as determined, happy and grateful. “There was a time when I didn’t know where my life laid ahead of me. I had to learn who I really was, set goals and learn what I wanted in life.” And her life is definitely much brighter and fulfilled these days.

Geneva

: “I had just completed a Certified Nurses Assistant certification, but I learned I was pregnant and I felt like I couldn’t go anywhere. I felt like I couldn’t find a job…I just couldn’t do it.”

Since coming to Bright Endeavors, Geneva says that she has changed: “I’ve learned a lot of personal and professional skills: I’m confident, I bring my resume to interviews. Now during job interviews, I research the company beforehand, look the interviewer in the eye, and ask good questions in the interview…I’m stronger now than I was when I started. I’m doing things I never thought I could do.”

Geneva loves making candles. In her role as a Finishing Specialist, Geneva cleans freshly made candles, affixes labels, and signs each candle she makes before passing it to Quality Control Inspection.

Once her baby is born, Geneva is excited to pursue her professional goals: “I want to be a social worker. I want to help families come back together so that no child feels outcast. I hope to begin with little steps first, moving to larger steps.”

Geneva continues, “Without this opportunity, I’d be home, sitting down, waiting for something to come to me. Bright Endeavors gives me a support system, and sees my value and worth. Now I have goals and aspirations. Now I know how to take care of myself so I can take care of my daughter.”

She smiles. “It’s going to be hard, but I’m ready.”

Chelle

: Chelle is a 2005 graduate of Thistle Farms, a community of women who have survived prostitution, addiction and trafficking. She has experienced growth alongside the organization.

“When I started, we were 5 women working at one table. Now I manage Accounts Payable for our $4 million budget. I started in manufacturing but over time I learned skills like Quickbooks and Peachtree. It is an amazing feeling to be trusted with the checkbook. It gives you your confidence back. Who knows, maybe I could be a banker now! I wish every woman on the streets could experience Thistle Farms – feel the love that can heal them. This is the place where we get second—and third and fourth—chances. I’m living proof. But the most important part of my life is that I’m a mother and a homeowner; and that my kids, Devione, Debria, and Devonte and I are together.”

Fernando

: “My experience with Nisolo has totally changed my life. I used to work 12, 14, even 16-hour days making shoes. I rarely saw my family. After 5 years of marriage and with a 2 year old son, I had to migrate to Argentina since my job in Peru didn’t provide me with a consistent working schedule and a stable salary. I worked abroad for four years without seeing my family. It was the hardest thing I have ever done and I often felt alone. A year ago I came back to see my family and was thinking about returning to Argentina until a neighbor told me about Nisolo… My job here has improved every area of my life. Now my family has healthcare and my son is receiving a better education than he was before. I also get to spend more time with my family. It’s great to work with a company that values family.”

Zeke

: Laid off from his previous job in the food industry, Zeke has found a living wage and his passion at Cincinnati Union Cooperative Initiative. “Working for Our Harvest is not like any other job I have had before. Here it’s a family. It’s a friendly environment to work in… you get really close to people. Here, I learned about sowing more jobs for people. Here, I learned about sowing and weeding and it opened my eyes about eating healthy. The healthy food we provide helps us and our customers get the fiber and nutrients we need.”

Felix

: As a newer jewelry maker at Nisolo‘s partner workshop in Kenya, Felix plans to use the craft to eventually pursue bigger dreams: “It wasn’t originally my desire to come work in brass jewelry, but after graduating high school, I found myself here through a friend. In the rural area where I come from, it is hard to find a job so when you find one, you take it. Slowly brass-making became something I enjoy, especially casting. Already, working at this company has allowed me to complete driving school and soon, I am going to be the best driver in Kenya! Next, I hope to go to school to learn how to be a mechanic.”