Story 11: Weatherization brings a new homeowner out of the cold

From a recent recipient of Community Action's Weatherization program services:

Thank you so much for all that you guys did!

I bought this house as a foreclosure four years ago. It was pretty nasty when I bought it. Luckily, I have an awesome dad who helped me fix a lot of things. I've been slowly trying to save up and fix/replace things where I can. 

I had a decent-paying job for five years, but lost it over the summer of 2012. I was on unemployment for a while when I learned about the Community Action programs. I have been working since June but still trying to catch up on everything. Hearing that you guys were going to replace my furnace was awesome! I knew that was a big expense that was coming up soon. On top of that you did numerous other things around here.

I know this email isn't much, but I just wanted to say thank you and everything you did was much appreciated!

Story 10: Building a work history and college-bound

At 20 years of age with a lack of employment history, Jernae Hooks’ future job prospects looked bleak. But with the help of some dedicated staff and a positive outlook from Jernae, she’s moving forward to securing a brighter future for herself.

                

Kelly Fallon from Beloit Memorial High School started working with Jernae and referred her to the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) program and Nicole Pfundheller, WIA Case Manager at the Community Action Pathways Center. 

“Jernae came into the program with poise, determination, and a set of goals that she developed for herself,” Nicole said. “She was excited to work, but had not held any gainful employment up to that time.”

                

Together Nicole and Jernae found a work site for her so she could complete her work experience and become acclimated to the workforce. After successfully completing that work experience, Jernae worked on career development goals and learned about the federal financial aid system and how to apply to various colleges. Her most important immediate goal, though, was to graduate from high school with her diploma, which she accomplished in January 2015.

                

“WIA has helped me and continues to help me to succeed…I am very grateful for this program,” Jernae said.

                

Jernae is not done working with Nicole or WIA yet. She is currently registering for college for this summer and is excited to be taking some general education courses. Although she’s undecided what career path she wants to pursue at this time, she’s following her dreams, and WIA will continue to provide support for her future endeavors.