David entered the Job Readiness Workshop with StepUp and found he could benefit from the skills taught. “I started working on interview skills and working on my resume. I thought I had things going well and doing things right with my resume and interview skills being a college graduate, but it couldnt've been further from the truth.”

StepUp taught David how to navigate discussing his criminal background during interviews, and it has made all the difference. “It’s been phenomenal. I’ve referred everyone that I’m talking to. Especially if you have a tethered background, gaps in employment history or if you’ve been incarcerated.”

Since joining StepUp Durham, David has been able to secure safe transportation and begin a career that has set his eyes on the future.

“When I first started StepUp, I really only thought I’d have a job in construction, nothing career oriented.”

Thankfully, David is now in a career as an Outreach Specialist at Housing for New Hope, assisting people who have had similar experiences to himself.

Because of the skills StepUp has given David, he has set goals to secure his own living space, reunite with his son, and to continue developing strong relationships like the ones he has cultivated in StepUp.

Vivian participated in classes and built lasting relationships with StepUp Durham sta  - then the global pandemic hit and she was faced with job loss again. “I reached out to StepUp and re-engaged to find work.” Through StepUp, Vivian was able to learn about Hope Renovations and secure a spot in their program. “StepUp wants to see me succeed. If they don’t know the answer, they work with someone who can help me.”

After her experience with New Hope Renovations, she pursued furthering her education through StepUp Durham’s Elevate program. Vivian chose to seek out a Forklift Certification from Durham Tech, not realizing how soon her certification would come in handy.

“I got the training before I knew about the job, and it ended up being exactly what I needed!” After receiving her certification, Vivian was able to secure a new position with an independent lumber company in Carrboro, NC and uses her certification often. Because of the skills developed during StepUp programming, Vivian has her eyes set on the future.

“I have a lot of goals, and with guidance they are attainable. I want to build a savings account and turn $1000 into $10,000. I want to create a retirement account so I am not uncomfortable in my old age. I want to prepare for my child’s retirement so they don’t have to struggle like I have. In our country many of us are one bad accident from being bankrupt and homeless. I would like to be part of the solution that helps people avoid that.”

Timing is everything, and luckily, one of the case managers for Volunteers for America recommended StepUp Durham to John. “I was having trouble finding a job because I am a felon, you know. One of the facilitators with StepUp made me feel comfortable because he shared my experience of having a criminal background. I told them about my experience and what I’ve been through, they made me feel really good, counseled me, prayed with me - everything a family could do for me. They were there for me when I didn’t have anyone else.”

Through collaboration with StepUp Durham’s Build program, John was given the opportunity to work with Scrap Exchange and met amazing, loving people there. He was able to secure permanent job with the Scrap Exchange because of this. After his initial success, John decided to pursue StepUp Durham’s other programs. Through Elevate, he was able to continue his learning to be better equipped to advance and serve the organization.