Sarah came to the Western Maryland Consortium in hopes of rebuilding her life by creating a self-directed, fulfilling life through full-time, meaningful employment. Sarah feared her past struggles with addiction would impede on her motivations to enter the workforce, she was welcomed to the Consortium with open arms.
Upon first meeting with Sarah, WMC staff could see her desire to get back into the workforce. She explained that she was interested in office work and had some experience in that field.
Immediately, our Business Services Representative went to work looking for an opportunity for Sarah. Using WMC’s On-the-Job Training program (OJT) as a financial incentive to hire Sarah, a local Welding business took her on as an Administrative Assistant.
Through the program, 50% of the client’s wages were reimbursed to the business for the training period. During this time, the Consortium also provided supportive services, so no additional barriers prevented Sarah from succeeding in her goals, including professional clothing for work, and public transportation vouchers.
Within a month of her new employment, Sarah was able to purchase her own vehicle and no longer relied on the public bus service.
