Success Stories

Success Story from CTC Workforce Development Stimulus Project

With a desire to increase his job readiness skills and obtain full-time employment, Mr. Michael Lowery enrolled in the CTC-Employment and Training Program.

After graduating from the two week program, Mr. Lowery secured a position as an AV Technician at the Hilton Hotel in Crystal City. Mr. Lowery started this position on November 30, 2009. Mr. Lowery still shares his experiences with prospective and current ETP Team members and students, encouraging his peers who are interested in rebuilding their lives to go back to school and continue their education or seek employment.

Success Story from Foster Grandparents

During the summer of 2009, Foster Grandparents program joined forces with Marion Robinson, the First Grandmother, and Arne Duncan, U.S. Secretary of Education by participating in the Department of Education's reading initiative, "Read to the Top!"

After serving over 800,000 hours of volunteer service for Washington D.C. children, the Foster Grandparent team members were honored with the Presidential Volunteer Service Award. In addition, lifetime achievement awards were given to 56 Foster Grandparents in recognition of the 600,000 hours given by this dedicated group of volunteers. In January, 2010 the UPO Foster Grandparent Program was recognized by President Obama and the First Lady at a National Mentoring Month celebration at the White House.

Success Story from UPO's Housing Program

Based under the AARA Stimulus Program, UPO foreclosure prevention counselors were able to stop foreclosures for seven UPO customers. UPO counselors were able to reduce the mortgage payments to less than 31% of the client's debt-to-income ratio. In addition, through the CSBG Program, UPO's housing counselors were able to assist 393 customers with eviction prevention and 292 referrals for rent payments since February 2010. There were 141 housing placements for customers who were homeless or seeking housing.

Success Stories from the Passport-To-Work Program

Teachers and parents alike express great satisfaction with the services and opportunities enrolled students receive from the Passport-To-Work program.

Success Stories

• Erin Boone is a 2008 graduate of Benjamin Banneker Academic High School. Erin is currently attending Virginia Commonwealth University where she is in good academic standing. She thoroughly enjoys college life and is prospering at VCU. Recently, Erin completed an internship with the Office of Disability Rights; the DC Federal agency which deals with matters of the disabled population. Her duties include compliance in the fair treatment of the disabled populous.
• Deonte Hudson is currently a sophomore at Benedict College where he is majoring in computer engineering. After college, he would like to begin his career as a Network Engineer. Deonte has recently completed an internship at the Federal Bureau of Investigation as a summer youth worker. Deonte tirelessly worked with the National Night Out, attended the 2009 Youth Peace Conference and also received the "Leadership Peace Award" while at the conference.
• Brianna Vega graduated from Benjamin Banneker Academic High School. She is fortunate enough to go to Delaware State University with a full ride! She sought full tuition so that she would not be a burden to her mother. Just recently, Brianna sent in a copy of her student report; She has all A's and one B for her first semester!
• Terrie Peterson is a junior at Wilson Senior High School, who loves math and is interested in accounting. She has recently submitted progress reports which show that she is on target for a 4.0 GPA this semester!

Success Story from Supportive Employment Services Program

On November 2, 2009, Michelle Garrett and Armand Chapman attended four weeks of SESP Employment Training Workshops. After successful completion of the four week training, Ms. Garret and Mr. Chapman along with other selected peers began their work experience at Prevention Works!, Inc.

After the hard work and commitment during their work experience with Prevention Works! Inc., Michelle Garrett and Armand Chapman's success could simply be measured by one statement - "You're hired!"

On February 8, 2010, Mr. Chapman was offered a full-time position with Prevention Works!, Inc., as the Administrative Associate/ Executive Assistant to the CEO at the Northwest Satellite Site. Mr. Chapman also attends Devry University, pursuing a Degree in Technical Management.

On February 22, 2010, Michelle Garrett was offered a full-time position with Prevention Works!, Inc. as Administrative Associate/ Executive Assistant at the North East Office. Ms. Garrett is really excited about her new position, stating, "I am learning so much at an alarming rate!"

SESP staff continue to provide Ms. Garret and Mr. Chatman with Ongoing Supportive Services, such as case management; employer/employee relationship concerns; and needed referrals.