Individual Achievement Award: 2022

Jodin always listened to his grandmother, and knew when she suggested he visit the Job Center of Lake County to help with his job search he should listen.

McHenry County Workforce has multiple tools in the program toolbox to build a skilled workforce. Some job seekers may require more than one.

Christopher Robare was homeless and wanted to work in an office or customer service setting, but he lacked the experience. His previous work experience was in retail and factory work. He wanted to change careers. Living at the Mission and contending with Covid restrictions and lockdowns made the situation even more difficult.

Shayna resides in Bureau County and had been working as a Certified Nursing Assistant in the local nursing homes and our hospitals. Her love of wanting to help others and making an impact in a patient’s life is what kept the passion strong in her nursing path.

Tony proudly served in the US Army for 8 years.  When he returned to civilian life, he didn’t expect to find himself unemployed in the middle of a global pandemic. With a family to support and a baby on the way, he was getting discouraged.

Richard Arsenault came to workNet DuPage seeking help after unsuccessfully searching for employment for several months. Richard was previously employed in the hospitality industry and lost his job at the height of the Pandemic.

Armando is a job seeker who was able to launch a new career with assistance from the team at the Mid-South American Jobs Center (AJC) operated by E&ES.

Jenny first came into the Workforce Center in July of 2021 seeking assistance with her college education. She completed all the necessary steps to be considered for a career scholarship in a timely manner. After completing testing, eligibility, and career readiness classes she was on her way to complete her dream of graduating from the Radiology Technician Program.

Dasheka began her journey long before she arrived at the Kankakee Workforce Service office, working as a CNA at Healthcare Nursing Facilities. She was working for minimum to midrange wages, and at that time a desire began within her to make a change. She knew that the challenge would feel like climbing a mountain, but she was committed to making a better life.

Meiah came to our One-Stop with a drive fueled by the pandemic. After 13 years as a Licensed Practical Nurse, the Covid-19 pandemic helped her realize the limitations she had as a nurse and the drive she had to do more. Meiah had barriers in her way—single motherhood, sole provider, pandemic were barriers she had when she walked through our door.

Sarah epitomizes what WIOA customers can achieve.  She was determined to make a better life for herself and her children.  She knew she was capable of more, and she was right. Sarah first applied for assistance in late July of 2021 as a single mom of 3 girls, a Certified Nursing Assistant, and, although working full-time, she still qualified for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), struggled financially, and lived in a tiny, cramped two-bedroom trailer.  Sarah wanted to be a nurse but decided to wait until her children were just a little older, as she did not want to miss their early development.

Kimberly Knollenberg was having difficulty finding self-sufficient employment even though she had EMT experience and a Science background.  In a household of three,-she had two sons relying on her-this was a very difficult time. Kimberly’s Assessment and Individual Employment Plan indicated that she had the ability to successfully complete the Bachelors of Science- Nursing Program.  In addition, she was determined to obtain her Registered Nursing License.

Dominique Jones came to First Institute Training and Management (FITM), the Youth provider for Local Workforce Area 18, in December of 2017 seeking to obtain her High School Equivalency.  After her initial assessment, she knew she had a long road ahead to reach her goal, but demonstrated a determined attitude to succeed. She was enrolled in Adult Education classes at Danville Area Community College, and also received support from FITM to assist her in achieving her educational and employment goals.

My name is Kenyota Hudson. I am 32 years old. Workforce Investment Solutions has been my support throughout my journey to become a registered nurse. WIS in a way became my family. When I needed help, I could always reach out to my career planner.  My career planner, Sherrie Manney, has been my biggest supporter even before I was accepted into the program. She would always make sure I received the help I needed.

19 year-old Abigail White was expecting her first child when she enrolled in the WIOA program.  She was a high school graduate, enlisted member of the Army National Guard, and had her nurse assistant certification. She was employed on a very part-time basis at a nursing home in Virginia, Illinois.

Before leaving prison, Marshall went through a re-entry program to prepare him for life on the outside.  Marshall arrived in Carlinville 4-22-22, homeless, after being incarcerated for 7 years.  Marshall met John at Catholic Charities who guided him through the process of obtaining a State ID as well as possible assistance with rent when Marshall found housing and employment.  Marshall came into the Carlinville Job Center to search for jobs.

Elizabeth contacted the Jersey/Calhoun Employment and Training office in Jerseyville, Illinois in April 17 2020.  She was employed as a CNA at Calhoun Nursing and Rehabilitation Center earning $13.00 per hour. In this position, Elizabeth was not able to fully support her family. She want to obtain her License Practical Nursing to increase her employment opportunities and income.

Sydney was 21 years of age, unemployed, single, pregnant, and receiving SNAP benefits when she came into the Robinson Workforce Center in July 2018 to inquire about the WIOA program for youth. She had heard about the WIOA program from her local college and was interested in classroom training.

Jadon Small was referred to the Workforce Development Group of St. Clair County Intergovernmental Grants Department by our partnering group, Community Services Block Grant. He was a Senior in high school and would sleep on the couch of whomever would allow him to stay a night or two. Jadon was enrolled in the WIOA Youth Program and under Paid Work Experience went to work at Soulcial Kitchen in Swansea. Through incentives, such as gas cards to help cover the cost of transportation, Jadon was able to demonstrate his work ethic and culinary skills.

Career Specialist Dana Marlow reports on her customer. “In October 2018, Amanda came to Man-Tra-Con Corporation seeking training assistance. She needed our help with getting her GED. While working toward her GED at John A. Logan College, she also enrolled in our Work Experience Program (WEP), where she worked at Man-Tra-Con’s Du Quoin office from January to March of 2019,” Dana explains.