Success Stories
Community Action Program of Western Indiana - Covington
Employment & Training Success Stories
In October 2009, I lost my job. Five months later, I was very discouraged and money was running out. I had never been without a job and as a professional, I never thought this would ever happen to me. So when I was let go from a pharmaceutical position after 9 years of stellar sales numbers, I didn’t think it would be hard for me to fall into something else rather quickly.
Needless to say, that did not happen. I found myself having to make some really tough financial decisions (use retirement money, sell my house, buy or borrowa car, borrow money from my 80 year old parents). That’s when I “stumbled” onto the classes offered at Work One (Lafayette) and Carol. Everyone I talked with at Work One was so helpful but it was Carol that gave me hope that I really could and would find a job by “tweaking” some of my interviewing skills. I took advantage of many of the classes but it was through what Carol taught and her encouragement that I truly believe landed me the position with US Oncology.
The interview questions, ‘elevator’ speech, and especially the Power Point class is what set me apart from the competition. I felt so prepared for my inter- views with 4 oncologists. There were two things I specifically did from what I learned from Carol that gave me the “cutting edge”. Those invaluable tips were: leave a hand written thank you right after your interview as you are leaving the building and “think out of the box”. I honestly can’t believe I had the courage to do these things but I kept hearing Carol in my mind saying, “You got to do something different, something ‘out of the box’ so they remember you”. I would have never done it otherwise. You have a very valuable em- ployee with Carol. I know if people who are unemployed take advantage of your classes and “use” the information taught, I am confident that they too will land a job! Thanks again!
Senior Center, MAC Van and Homemaker News
Our recent American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant (or portion of a larger grant) has not created new jobs for our senior programs, but has and will continue to retain jobs and free up time for key personnel. The Transportation program and the Homemaker program will be able to: track transportation clients more closely and ensure they are being served, prepare reports and schedules more effectively and efficiently allowing more time to create fund-raisers and communicate with government and civic groups. The dispatcher for the Transportation Program will be able to gather information and schedule van trips in a more efficient manner. This will free up time for the dispatcher to be a driver also, truly retaining that position.
The Director of the Senior Center will be able to efficiently track clients and their daily activities. Assess what new activities might be needed. The stimulus money will also assist in managing the hot lunch program more efficiently, assist with transportation scheduling and tracking, track homebound meals, more accurately track all vehicles and volunteers. Overall improved efficiency for all reporting areas by the capability to pull specific data from the Serv Track program. Great to see the stimulus money at work to enhance services to our senior population!
