A program offered by Willis Dady Homeless Services in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is making a significant impact by providing stability to individuals through employment opportunities.
The program has been instrumental in assisting individuals like Eric Fish, who, after facing homelessness, was able to find a place to live and regain his footing with the help of the program. Fish, now employed as a liter abatement representative, credits Willis Dady for helping him get back on his feet.
Empowering Through Employment
Fish's journey with Willis Dady's Employment Program began as a means to rebuild his life. While exploring different job opportunities within the program, he discovered his passion for cleaning up the city and working alongside a supportive team.
"I actually fell in love with it, it gets me out and about, and I get to work with great crew members, I could not ask for better," shared Fish.
Willis Dady collaborates with local businesses and organizations in Linn County to offer job placements to individuals in the program, currently serving 45 participants through referral-based initiatives.
Kelsey Culver, the Employment and Outreach Director at Willis Dady Homeless Services, highlighted the program's accessibility for individuals in need of additional support or who are at risk of homelessness. Through working with a case manager, individuals can be referred to various employment opportunities offered by the program.
Diverse Employment Opportunities
Participants in the program have the chance to engage in different roles, such as working with Frontier Co-Op, participating in liter abatement projects with the city of Cedar Rapids, or engaging in mattress recycling activities onsite at Willis Dady to minimize environmental impact.
The overarching goal of the program is to equip workers with the necessary skills for sustainable employment in the long term.
"We have room for people who need jobs, and we have room for people who want to employ kind of that more diverse group of people," stated Culver.
Through its inclusive approach, the program is not only creating job opportunities but also transforming lives.
Transforming Futures
"You've got to put your mind to it and when you go and do it follow through with it and then eventually everything will turn out better," emphasized Fish.
Willis Dady Homeless Services' Employment Program is not just about finding jobs but about empowering individuals to build a better future for themselves. By offering support, opportunities, and a supportive community, the program stands as a beacon of hope for those in need.