Testimonials/Share Your Story
I’m the perfect example of why Vermont women need this program; it’s changed the course of my life. Without it I would have had to settle for $8.00 an hour, doing something that I don’t find fulfilling. I feel confident; I know I have the skills I need to do this.
Robin, Modular Home Program graduate earning $13 an hour in construction in Atlanta, Georgia
When I first read about the program, I thought how wonderful it was to offer women the chance to learn skills that not only were sought after but that would lead to a wage which could actually pay the bills. Compare that to the wage of a waitress or cashier and you know what I mean! I have learned that this program does even more than provide skills and promising future wages. It offers women the chance to develop self-esteem which is something many of our incarcerated women are lacking. It provides the opportunity for the women to be proud of what they learn and do. It teaches them that they can be successful and don’t have to rely on selling drugs or abusive relationships to support their children. I have talked to many of the past and current participants and found them smiling as they told me about how much they have learned and enjoyed the program. The Modular Home Program also assists women in locating employers and provides support after they leave the facility. This program helps the women become better individuals, better mothers, and better community members. If I could change one thing about the program, I would it expand it all over Vermont as we have many more women who need this opportunity.
Sara, Clinical Mental Health Counselor
I never had trouble getting a job – but I couldn’t stay in one…This program helped me find the confidence to know that I am good enough to be here. I do fit in. Out of 25 resumes, they chose ME! I have the skills, the talent – and now it’s up to me to prove myself. I love this job – and it loves me. I will do anything for Vermont Works for Women and the program; I’m a great success story.
Jen, TJ program participant who, after being hired as a temporary employee by the State’s Attorney, was offered a permanent job there
I am always willing to support a program that is so well run and so important to our community. We spend so much money incarcerating individuals and when they find themselves in the real world they do not have the skills necessary to succeed, consequently they, often times, end back from whence they came. Programs like yours are invaluable in getting this population to be successful, productive and happy members of our community. It seems like the prevailing issue among all these women (if I may generalize) is not their physical or mental ability but rather their severe lack of self confidence. Provide them with a foundation and some relevant skills and they begin to find self worth and self confidence. Kudos to you and all those involved for the great work you do.
Lloyd Grunvald, Preci-Manufacturing Inc. Employer, Transitional Jobs Program
I cannot begin to tell you how much of a difference the SULE program has made in my life. I have never felt so supported, encouraged and believed in as much as I do now! The professionals this program connects you with want you to succeed and make themselves available to help you achieve your dreams!Katy, 2010 Step Up to Law Enforcement program graduate now employed as a dispatcher by the Montpelier Police Department
A diverse workforce is a smarter and better service delivery team than a non-diverse one. The Step Up to Law Enforcement program is not only important to my department but to the profession as a whole.
2010 Policing Employer Partner
My mentor is the first person who is not paid to be in my life. She’s always there for me and reminds me about what my goals are.
Mentee/Mentoring Program
The Step Up to Carpentry program met my expectations in every way. I have regained confidence and a higher respect for who I am and what I can achieve when given the opportunity. - Brenda, 2009 Step Up to Green Carpentry Graduate, now self-employed in small scale renovation business
See more stories from women like you here>>
