Becoming a single mother of five boys in May 2025 changed everything for Shannen. Overnight, she found herself balancing full-time parenting with the urgent need to secure stable work, reliable child care, and refreshed job skills. Her journey with the Wisconsin Works (W-2) program reflects resilience, determination, and the power of support in moments of transition.
Facing New Challenges as a Single Mother of Five
Before connecting with Forward Service Corporation, Shannen was navigating overwhelming challenges. She needed child care for her five boys, assistance with job search and applications, and support strengthening her Microsoft Office skills so she could confidently re-enter the workforce.
She shared, “I became a single mom of five boys in May of this year. I needed help finding work, daycare, and brushing up on my Microsoft skills.”
Her confidence was limited, but her determination was strong.
A Referral and a Turning Point
Shannen came to FSC through a referral from The Lakes Church. Once enrolled in the W-2 program, she received the structured support she needed: child care resources, guidance in her job search, and space to rebuild her skillset. With encouragement from her case manager, she spent many hours practicing Microsoft Office, ultimately strengthening her abilities and her self-confidence.
Skill-Building That Sparked Confidence
Shannen poured herself into improving her computer skills, an effort that made a direct impact on her career readiness.
She explained, “I spent many hours working on Microsoft Office, which increased my confidence and strengthened my computer skills.”
These improvements opened doors she hadn’t thought possible just months earlier, creating momentum toward her long-term goals.
Achieving Employment and Renewed Pride
With consistent effort and support, Shannen completed applications, prepared for interviews, and found a job that aligned with both her family’s needs and her professional ambitions. She secured employment as a remote call center worker with Alta, giving her the flexibility she needed as a single parent.
“These strengths helped me find the job I now have as a call center worker from home with Alta, and I feel proud of the progress I’ve made.”
Her progress reflects a powerful shift—from uncertainty to self-sufficiency.
Dreaming Bigger for Her Career and Her Family
Shannen’s dreams extend well beyond her first step back into the workforce. She shared, “My dream is to build a stable future for myself and my five boys. I want to keep growing my skills so I can move onto better opportunities, like training or leadership roles in a call center.”
With steady income, renewed confidence, and a growing skillset, she is now planning for long-term stability and advancement.
A Future Built on Strength and Determination
As she looks ahead, Shannen hopes to continue growing professionally, aiming for training or leadership roles in the call center field. She also wants to maintain the flexibility that allows her to be present for her children while building financial security.
A Powerful Transformation
Throughout her time in the W-2 program, Shannen demonstrated remarkable growth. She moved from needing immediate help with child care and job search to securing stable employment and rebuilding her confidence. Her journey reflects increased motivation, strengthened skills, and a proactive approach to creating a better future.
Today, she stands proud. She is an example of resilience, hard work, and the impact of meaningful support.
The Power of Wisconsin Works
Shannen’s journey is a powerful reminder of how life-changing the W-2 program can be. For parents facing barriers like unemployment, lack of transportation, or financial strain, Wisconsin Works provides more than assistance. It offers hope, confidence, and the tools to secure family-supporting wages that move households toward lasting independence.
To learn more and/or see if you’re eligible for this program, visit www.fsc-corp.org/W-2
