Heroes & Success Stories

 

Client Success ~ Glenda Leicht ~ Senior Community Service Employment Program

Glenda Leicht, a proud grandmother and hard-working mother of five adult children, heads to work every day with a smile on her face. It may seem as if she has the world in the palm of her hand, but for years, the weight of the world rested on her shoulders. At the age of 60, Glenda was unemployed and busy helping to raise her special needs grandson, while also assisting two of her children and struggling financially following a divorce. Glenda had plenty of experience in accounting and administrative skills, but felt her age was a barrier. Glenda was intimidated and reluctant to seek out job opportunities. Her lack of modern computer skills and confidence in her own abilities led her to seek the help of the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) with MERS/Goodwill.

SCSEP is a federally funded program administered by MERS/Goodwill, providing subsidized, work-based training to low-income persons age 55 or older that need help finding a job. Volunteers are placed at non-profit and government agencies, called a Host Agency, to assist in the organization’s operations working an average of 20 hours per week. SCSEP is meant to act as a bridge to unsubsidized employment opportunities, learning on the job skills needed to find permanent employment.

Glenda ran a decorating and reconstruction business with her husband for 32 years, until financial troubles forced them to close their business. She and her husband separated shortly after, leaving little time and money to care for herself and to help her family. Glenda read an article in her local paper highlighting SCSEP and felt the program may be the answer to helping her return to the job market.

“Glenda faced barriers in the workplace because of her age and she didn’t have the computer skills needed for many work environments, but her biggest barrier was her lack of confidence,” said Constance McCord, case manager for SCSEP.

As soon as Glenda qualified for SCSEP, she was placed at Nazareth Living Center for 20 hours of work experience per week. She began working with Constance and quickly completed skills training provided by SCSEP, perfecting her computer skills and boosting her confidence. Although Glenda started as an ice cream parlor attendant, she had opportunities to demonstrate her administrative and accounting skills. She was quickly given more responsibility including ordering shipments of ice cream, managing the stand and entering key data. She eventually became the part-time receptionist for five different departments within Nazareth.

Well liked and efficient in her duties in the business offices, Glenda became a valued employee at Nazareth Living Center but needed more hours and pay to support her family. Constance contacted Nazareth on Glenda’s behalf, but at that time they were not in a position to offer her unsubsidized employment. Glenda then had to move to another Host Agency to pursue unsubsidized employment; however, she was pleasantly surprised to be contacted two weeks later by Nazareth offering her a job.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today were it not for SCSEP and Constance’s encouragement,” said Glenda. “She really pushed me to break out of my shell.”

Glenda successfully exited from SCSEP in November of 2011, after receiving her first unsubsidized paycheck. Today, Glenda works an average of 38 hours per week as the assistant to the admissions coordinator at Nazareth. She assists in numerous departments at the Center, helping to arrange dinners, the golf tournament and other fundraisers, as well as completing general administrative tasks and brightening the faces of the nurses, residents and visitors she works with.

“I couldn’t be happier for Glenda,” said Constance. “Everything is just falling into place for her. She worked so hard to get this far and it is so encouraging to see that smile on her face when she talks about her career.”

From Left to Right: Michael McMillan, License Collector, Lolita Ramos, Darius Chapman, Department Manager of the Office of the License Collector, Heather Narx, Marnell Strickland, Shonisce Mure, Jahylyn Tillman

Roosevelt High School Graduates Take Future Success Seriously

While many high school graduates are enjoying the summer with trips to the lake, parties and days out in the sun, a very special group of Roosevelt High School graduates are working towards a brighter future. The MERS/Goodwill WIA Youth Program provides young adults with work experience, group education, job development, placement services and helps them to craft appropriate vocational goals. The initiative with Roosevelt, made possible by a close partnership between MERS/Goodwill, SLATE, and the St. Louis Public Schools, has resulted in 94 of Roosevelt’s 2012 graduating class receiving WIA services.

The WIA Youth Program, funded by the St. Louis Agency on Training and Employment (SLATE), was developed for youth 17-21. The program gives individual attention to each youth, providing the trust and support needed to succeed. This is the first year that WIA has partnered with the Office of the License Collector. Through MERS/Goodwill and the Office of the License Collector, students in the WIA Youth Program are working with the City of St. Louis to gather experience and knowledge for their future careers.

Michael McMillan, License Collector, and Darius Chapman, Department Manager of the Office of the License Collector, are constantly looking for jobs, internships and volunteer opportunities for the young adults in the WIA program. They also serve as a steady source of advice and counseling for the youth they have taken under their wing.

“When we received funding from SLATE for Roosevelt High School, I immediately remembered Darius’ past work with the SLATE program and knew that the Office of the License Collector would be a great fit for the Roosevelt High School Students,” said Rosalind Mack, Case Manager for the WIA Youth Program.

For McMillan, giving back and helping children and youth of all ages to achieve their educational aspirations has been a 25-year commitment.

“I want to give our interns educational experiences that reinforce good work ethics, expose them to professional role models that will coach and mentor them and emphasize the importance of values and accountability in everything they do,” said McMillan.

The MERS/Goodwill interns have the opportunity to benefit and learn firsthand in the Office of the License Collector. A vast majority of the students over the years, who have this experience, continue their education and secure jobs.

“This is one of the best groups of interns I have ever seen,” said Chapman. “I hope to provide them with an experience so they can become successful within our society. Our youth are very well prepared for the St. Louis workforce.”

On an average day the students are kept very busy. They are gaining a lot of experience, from working in a professional environment to harnessing professional communication and working to stay on top of their tasks. These graduates have bright outlooks on their future, including careers in health care, psychology, working with the City Hall and attending college programs.

“From the WIA Youth Program, I have learned how to tackle the work environment and how to stay ahead of the game,” said Jahylyn Tillman, a student with the WIA Youth Program. “After the program I am going to Harris-Stowe State University and taking classes in Health Care Management.”

  Congratulations James Elliott!

 It’s a rare occasion to spot James Elliott, MERS/Goodwill Case Manager and Employment Specialist, without a smile on his face. Recently awarded as MERS/Goodwill’s top placement person in the 61 bi-state offices for the past four years, he has lots to smile about.

 ”James is the epitome of a model employee,” said Dr. Lewis Chartock, MERS/Goodwill President and CEO. “He is constantly working to provide his clients with gainful employment, while creating meaningful and lasting connections with employers. We are proud of James’ accomplishments and excited to see his continued support of our organization.”

Serving MERS/Goodwill Industries of Missouri for more than 12 years, James loves his job and the organization he works so hard for to help its programs become a success. Since 2008, James has successfully helped more than 65 clients find employment each year; boasting a record year of 86 placements in 2010. James contributes his success to his clients and co-workers who continue to inspire and motivate him.

“James and I have been working together for 10 years,” said Erin McCuan, MERS/Goodwill Director of Aftergut Center. “He is respected by his clients, co-workers and Missouri Vocational Rehabilitation. James is tenacious in seeking out employers that want to partner with MERS/Goodwill and offer employment opportunities to our clients. His numbers speak for themselves!”

James is looking forward to another successful year, new opportunities and many more client placements. Congratulations, James, and thank you for your continued dedication and hard work!

 

Tori Long – Client Success Story – After her high school graduation and wanting to purchase her own car, Tori Long knew obtaining employment was the essential next step. With no work history and unsure about the application process, Tori knew she needed help. Tori learned about MERS/Goodwill’s Employment Services and decided she would give MERS/Goodwill a try.

MERS/Goodwill’s Employment Services, funded by Missouri Vocational Rehabilitation, assist persons in learning new skills and work behaviors that will lead to success in training or finding and keeping a job. The organization provides opportunities to develop employment interests and potential employment by providing employer-based, realistic training in the vocational area of choice.

“Tori is the epitome of what our program is all about,” said Tammy Thurman, MERS/Goodwill evaluator. “It would have been very difficult, if not impossible, for her to obtain employment on her own as she was very shy, had no past work experience, had no interviewing skills, and needed someone to encourage her along the way.”

With Tammy’s help, Tori completed the program, receiving guidance for filling out applications, proper interview attire and a series of mock interviews to fully prepare her. Soon Tori was ready to apply for jobs. The pair focused mostly on entry-level work at various retail locations, particularly cashier positions.

When Tammy found out about a job fair hosted by Dollar General she encouraged Tori to attend and apply. “The hiring manager was very supportive of our program,” said Tammy. “Dollar General is a small store with few employees. I felt Tori would receive the attention and training she needed to succeed.”

Tammy’s intuition was right. After a series of interviews, Tori was hired as a cashier.

Now employed for more than a year, Tori truly enjoys working for Dollar General, and has proved to be an essential member of the team. “I was Employee of the Month my second month working,” said Tori. She has also taken on responsibilities outside of her cashier duties, including training as Manager on Duty. If a situation would arise, she is prepared to fulfill the position.

“Since joining the Dollar General team, Tori has been a true asset to the store,” said Jon Fakes, Dollar General district manager. “Her experience, training and strong work ethic make her a model employee. In fact, she was recently promoted to lead sales associate.”

In her free time, Tori enjoys reading, hanging out with friends and leading a high school youth group. She plans to attend college in the future and enjoys theology and philosophy studies. She is a true supporter of MERS/Goodwill and would recommend the services offered by the organization to anyone.

“I saw Tori blossom into a confident young woman,” said Tammy. “I am proud that myself and MERS/Goodwill were a part of that.”

 

Patria Hill –WIA Youth Illinois Client

Standing at a mere 5’3”, Patria Hill is not the ideal basketball player. Her skills, however, say otherwise. Patria greets challenges, often overcoming them with sheer ambition. Despite her pint-size stature, Patria spent her high school career focusing on one goal, playing basketball at the collegiate level while studying to be an English teacher.

In August 2009, while a student at Cahokia High School, Patria enrolled in MERS/Goodwill’s WIA Youth Illinois Program. The program is funded by St. Clair County’s Intergovernmental Grants Department, which serves Clinton, Monroe, Randolph, St. Clair, and Washington Counties in Illinois. Hoping to receive assistance with college searching and applications, Patria also wanted to improve her job skills and resume while working part time through the program. After enrolling in the program, Patria would not only find the aid she sought, but also discover a life-long mentor and friend.

On occasion, Robin Pruitt, MERS/Goodwill Coordinator of WIA Youth – Illinois, would attend group meetings and talk to Patria. Although Robin did not serve as Patria’s main case manager, she took interest in the focus and drive Patria exuded. Their contact was often brief, focusing on Patria’s job readiness training and her employment. Robin, however, was determined to build a relationship with Patria.

One day, the opportunity presented itself. Patria knocked on Robin’s office door and pulled up a chair for a brief chat. After some typical questions, Robin hit the jackpot. “What do you want to do after high school?” Robin asked. “All I want to do is play basketball and be an English teacher,” Patria responded. Patria proceeded to tell Robin about her love for basketball and how she dreamed of playing in college.

Finding a place where Patria could live her dreams became Robin’s quest. There were a lot of options, but Robin’s own alma mater, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College in Indiana, rose to the top of the list due to her close contacts there. “I gathered Patria’s basketball stats and was persistent about getting her tapes viewed by the coaches,” said Robin. Within a few weeks, Patria attended a scrimmage with the team.

In the fall of 2010, Patria enrolled in Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, attending on a basketball scholarship. A permanent bond was formed between Patria and Robin.

“She’s an amazing person,” said Patria. “I always call her for advice, even though I’m no longer in the program, Robin still helps me. I use her as a reference for various applications, including school and jobs. She’s helped me out so much.”

Robin’s guidance has been a great aid to Patria, especially when Patria decided to transfer closer to home. As Robin always tells her clients, “Life’s one big do-over. If it doesn’t turn out right the first time, you just do it over. Plan A didn’t work out, now what’s plan B?”

Now attending Lindenwood University in Belleville, Patria plans to return to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods for graduate school. She is playing basketball and studying English education and athletic training. Although Patria’s plan A morphed into plan B, she continues to confidently work toward her dreams. Through her enrollment in MERS/Goodwill’s WIA Youth Program – Illinois, Patria was able to achieve her goals. She continues to utilize the skills she learned and developed through the program.

“Patria’s persistence and ‘never giving up’ attitude make her a great success,” said Robin. “She is a leader among her peers, and seeing her overcome difficulties is a huge inspiration to me.”

 

Robin Pruitt – MERS/Goodwill Coordinator of WIA Youth – Illinois

Most 9-5 p.m. jobs allow employees to turn off phones, email and thinking caps after hours, enjoying the evening and leaving work for the following morning. Although not required by MERS/Goodwill, Robin Pruitt does not adhere to these social norms. After years of working with teens and young adults, Robin knows the best time for a youth to communicate is when he or she is ready, and that can be any time of the day or night.

“When we get a new client, I always tell them I wake up happy,” said Robin. When the client responds with a questioning look, Robin explains that her phone is on 24/7 and clients are always welcome to call. It is small gestures such as this that make Robin unique and contribute to the tremendous success of the MERS/Goodwill WIA Youth Illinois Program.

“In a field full of compassionate people, Robin stands out,” said Hilary Wagner, MERS/Goodwill Vice President. “Particularly for some young people who may have limited support from family or friends, to have someone like Robin in their corner makes a world of difference.”

Hired in July 2007 as MERS/Goodwill’s Coordinator of WIA Youth Services in Illinois, Robin was to manage programs in Bond, Cahokia, Madison and Jackson Counties. As the years have passed, different grants have allowed Robin and her team to work with various counties in the state. Today the program serves youth in Bond County through funding from Madison County Employment and Training Department, and in Clinton, Washington and St. Clair Counties with funding through St. Clair County Intergovernmental Grants Department.

In addition to overseeing case managers in each county, networking within communities, building relationships with job sites, businesses and organizations, and increasing awareness of the programs in each community, Robin carries a case load of her own. She focuses on clients who need a little extra attention and encouragement, while working with startup grants, like her latest endeavor, the Belleville in-school grant. Unlike the other three counties, the Belleville grant focuses on students in school. Through the program, students receive job readiness training and college planning assistance including help with FASFA applications. Under Robin’s watchful eye and with a focus on education and community service, similar programs of the past, such as Cahokia, have proved successful.

“She’s like a second mother,” said Patria Hill, WIA Youth client – Cahokia. Patria became involved in the Cahokia program in August 2009, and Robin helped Patria pursue her dreams of playing basketball in college. Now at Lindenwood University in Belleville, Patria is shooting hoops while studying English education. “Even though I’m no longer in the program, Robin still helps me. I always call her when I need advice and use her as a reference for various applications, including school and jobs.”

Robin has dreams of her own that she is striving to fulfill. The success of the current four counties and clients of the past, fuel Robin’s hopes of growth for the WIA Youth Program in Illinois. She recently completed applications for new grants, hoping to expand into additional counties. To display the community support, Robin collected more than 30 letters from various businesses and organizations in Illinois.

“Robin is an absolute pleasure to work with, from a grant writing perspective,” said Ben Williams, MERS/Goodwill Program Development Specialist. “She epitomizes what a social service worker should be. She lives it: it’s not just a paycheck.”

 

Miranda Prince – Client Success Story

Donnie Edwards – Client Success