At its June 17, 2011 Board meeting, TCWIB gave a STEP award to Julie Davis. When Julie entered the EARN Program in September of 2010 she had recently separated from her husband. Julie had been at wife and stay at home mother for nearly 13 years and after her separation had no choice but to return to the workforce. Julie felt lost and unsure of what to do or where her life would lead. Julie stated that her world was turned upside down. She was unsure of herself and her future.
As soon as Julie entered TCWIB’s EARN Program, she began utilizing the WORK Keys program and then immediately went into job search. During that time, through intensive case management, Julie began to flourish. Her Case Manager helped her to see her potential and realize that she could provide a great life for herself and her three children. Julie is the mother of Scott and Joshua, both teenagers and Catherine, who is in middle school. During her time in the EARN program, Julie’s Case Manager helped her to realize that there is life after separation and that she had the power to do well on her own.
When her job search time ran out and after countless interviews, Julie was placed at the Shine Again Boutique where she quickly became one of the mentors to younger female clients. They saw her as an example of how to act respectfully and work hard. Julie was an example to all of the other clients both in the EARN classroom and at Shine Again.
When Julie first entered the EARN Program, she expressed a desire to work in the personal care field, though she had no experience. After updating her computer skills in the EARN classroom and her customer service skills at Shine Again, Julie’s Case Manager recommended a position at Sugarcreek Rest. Julie’s Case Manager placed a call to Sarah Heckert at Sugarcreek and recommended her for a position as a hostess, with the goal of pursuing CNA training. Julie applied and was accepted. After her interview, Julie’s Case Manager again spoke with Ms. Heckert who stated that she and the Director of Nursing were very impressed with Julie’s professionalism, work ethic and positive attitude.
Julie was on hired on January 24, 2011, 4 months after entering the EARN Program. After working as a hostess at Sugarcreek, Julie entered their CNA training program on May 2, 2011. She finished CNA training May 27, 2011 and will take her CNA certification test in June 2011.
Julie has been a model client, exceeded all expectations, and never gave up on herself or her pursuit for a better life for her children.
Mia McMillen, EARN Program Administrator accepted the award on Julie’s behalf.