When Jennifer Weldy came to the SEMCA Southgate Service Center at the Downriver Community Conference, she was a mother of two young children and five and a half months pregnant with her third child.
Her husband was out of work, and went to Colorado, saying he would call for Jennifer and the kids to join him as soon as he was settled and employed. In anticipation of the move, Jennifer sold or gave away nearly everything they owned. She spent virtually every dime she had on tickets that she and the kids needed in order to move to Colorado.
Jennifer, receiving her certificate in Lansing on January 23, 2002. (left to right) SEMCA Workforce Development Board Chair, Frank Lopez; EAG Chair, Charlie Mahoney; SACE Teacher Sara Brooks; Alumni of the Year, Jennifer Weldy; Senator Loren Bennett.
Jennifer made a list of things she would have to do just to keep her family together and safe. With the help of Work First staff, especially customer advocate Sandy Langlois and Job Developer Ruth Torok, Jennifer began accomplishing the things on her list. The list evolved to include more involved, longer-term goals—things that helped her gain confidence and strength.
Jennifer had been walking to the Service Center to participate. She was then provided with transportation through DCC’s transportation department.
(left) SACE Teacher Sara Brooks; and (right) Alumni of the Year Jennifer Weldy; help student (center) Debbie Laurenzi prepare for her GED exam.
She needed childcare for her two pre-schoolers and brand new baby. DCC arranged for childcare at Nanny’s Nursery, a childcare center located right in the DCC building.
Jennifer’s big break came when she interviewed with and was hired by Southgate Adult & Community Education (SACE). They work collaboratively with DCC on the Partnership for Adult Learning (PAL) Program. SACE has an office/classroom right in the DCC building, the same building as her children’s childcare center!
Jennifer was recognized for her achievements at the SEMCA Celebration of Success 2002. (left to right) SACE teacher Mark Piegza; Jennifer’s boss, Carole Betzner; Sara Brooks, also a SACE teacher; SEMCA Workforce Development Board Chairman Frank Lopez shaking hands with Jennifer; from the DCC, Sandra Langlois; Jennifer Weldy; in front of Jennifer is her daughter; and Ruth Torok from the DCC.
“Jennifer is vital to the success of our PAL program, and we consider her an indispensable member of our team,” said Carole Betzner, Jennifer’s supervisor.
But Jennifer wasn’t done with everything on her list and neither was DCC. She was assisted with purchasing a car, and given numerous referrals for suitable housing.
Jennifer worked hard to accomplish her goals and is now able to support herself and her children.