When Charley entered the WIOA program through a referral from Shawano Drug Court in June 2024, he was determined to rebuild his life. Facing steep barriers — unemployment, lack of reliable transportation, significant financial obligations, and limited support — Charley set clear goals: find employment, pursue career growth, and build a new life free from substance use. Today, he stands as a shining example of how resilience and workforce development programs can change lives.
Rising Above Barriers: A Fresh Start
At the outset, Charley’s situation was daunting. Without a steady income or a reliable vehicle, his job prospects were limited. Yet his determination never wavered. He quickly secured part-time employment at Family Dollar — a vital first step toward financial stability and self-confidence.
Charley’s commitment to self-improvement was clear from the beginning. Through regular communication with his career planner and active participation in career development activities, he kept his eyes firmly on his goals, despite ongoing court obligations and the challenges of recovery.
Transportation: Unlocking New Opportunities
Transportation proved to be one of Charley’s biggest hurdles. Without a car, many job opportunities were simply out of reach. But thanks to a WETAP loan, Charley was able to purchase a reliable vehicle — a life-changing development that expanded his employment options far beyond his immediate surroundings.
With newfound mobility, Charley pursued better job prospects and attended career assessments, which confirmed his aptitude for industrial maintenance. He also began exploring certification programs at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC), further investing in his long-term success.
Career Breakthrough: Achieving Employment Success
Charley’s hard work paid off in March 2025 when he achieved a major milestone: full-time employment at Marion Body Works as a welder — a remarkable 72% increase from his part-time earnings. Even more impressively, Charley continued working weekends at Family Dollar to ensure financial stability, demonstrating an unwavering work ethic and commitment to his future.
His progress wasn’t just about income. With a full-time job, a reliable vehicle, and a strong support system forming around him, Charley found himself growing more confident, less anxious, and increasingly optimistic about the future.
Giving Back: Building Community and Confidence
Throughout his journey, Charley never lost sight of the importance of giving back. He volunteered extensively, offering his time and skills to projects that uplifted his community:
- Carpentry work for the Rise Wellness Center
- Assisting Habitat for Humanity
- Bell ringing for the Salvation Army
- Participating in the Recovery Walk
These acts of service not only strengthened his ties to the community but also reinforced his sense of purpose and empathy for others walking similar paths.
Looking Ahead: Dreams for the Future
Today, Charley has secured stable housing, maintained his sobriety, fulfilled his financial obligations, and built a foundation for a bright future. His next dream? Buying a house and moving in with his girlfriend — a goal well within reach thanks to his hard-earned progress.
Charley continues to explore opportunities for advancement, including apprenticeship programs with Local 400, demonstrating a clear vision for his continued career growth.
A Testament to Resilience and Support
Charley’s journey illustrates the transformative power of determination, community support, and access to workforce development programs like WIOA. From unemployment and uncertainty to a thriving career and hopeful future, Charley’s story is a beacon of hope for anyone facing daunting obstacles.
With a strong support system, a reliable vehicle, stable employment, and an unwavering commitment to personal growth, Charley has not just changed his own life — he is inspiring others to believe that change is possible, no matter how tough the road may seem.
