Community Action Helps Dislocated Worker Gain New Skills and Find a Job

Michael, a 55 year-old resident of Weinland Park in Columbus, Ohio who lost his warehousing job did not know where to turn. "I lost my job in 2011 and my whole world crumbled," Michael explained. "I lost my apartment, my relationship and my freedom. I felt defeated and I had no self-esteem. I thought that I was going to be able to bounce right back and get a job, but no, that didn't happen. I would apply for jobs and I would never hear back from employers. I felt punished by society. I wondered 'what am I doing wrong?' I am over 50 years old and suddenly for the for the first time, I felt useless. I needed help."

Weatherization Leads to Safer Home

Ramona, a single mom from Lorain, Ohio had been living in strife for seven years without any heat in her home. Her nearly 100-year-old home was in desparate need of major repairs, including a new boiler, but the expenses were beyond her meager budget.