Region 2

As a Jobs & Hope WV participant, Bernard overcame obstacles in securing employment and housing. He completed Maritime Academy Deckhand Training and Blueridge CTC OSHA-10 General Industry training in one year. As a participant, Bernard had access to transportation to training and work via Modivcare. He also obtained a Transportation Workers Identification Card, work boots, and gloves with the help of Catholic Charities. These items were essential for his training and employment as a deckhand.

Jobs & Hope is an invaluable resource for people who are trying to recover, especially for those who need a little help while trying to help themselves. Most times in recovery employment is a major stumbling block for people. Housing as well, but to me the job training is more crucial than anything else. Those who want to learn and sometimes do not have a way and means to be able to do so and you guys have stepped in and really helped with that. Things that I could not afford to have done on my own to better myself the program has been there in order to help me achieve my goals. I have been able to better myself due to this program and it is helping with my education. I am a better person due in part to that education and that has been a benefit directly from the Jobs and Hope program.

One Cabell County participant has gone from living at the Huntington City Mission to moving into her own apartment. She recently received a job offer to work at the City Mission. She says “The Jobs and Hope program is a step in the right direction to help solve the issues surrounding addiction. It has personally helped me tremendously to be able to achieve goals and be comfortable and confident in my own skin. I don’t think you could have picked a more qualified person then Melanie. She is very knowledgeable, and she truly cares, while striving every day to make our community better.”

“As a woman in her 50’s with only a high school diploma for education and who found herself unemployed for the first time since high school, the Jobs and Hope program has given me more than just certifications or a diploma. It truly has given me self-confidence so when I am applying for jobs or positions, I know I am one of the best candidates that the company could hire.”