When Jeff found himself in a series of jobs that didn’t pay enough to make ends meet, he knew he needed a change. He heard about CitySquare WorkPaths from a CitySquare team member he encountered by chance at one of his jobs.

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Jeff enrolled in CitySquare WorkPaths Build4Success, the 6 week program that offers unemployed and under-employed adults basic training and certifications to get a living-wage job in the construction industry.

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He left the program fully certified and ready to work in 2016. After battling a back injury, he dove directly into the workforce. He was surprised to find many opportunities in welding, so he focused on building his skills and client portfolio there.

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Less than two years later, his hard work is already paying off. Today, Jeff is employed with his own car and apartment. He works from 5:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. and is able to help his daughter and grandson, who were big motivators in his path to success.

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Jeff would like anyone who reads his story to know that he came from hard times. He has been delivering people’s groceries and cutting neighbor’s grass for money since he was 12 years old. He advises people who find themselves struggling to maintain hope and remember that there are jobs and people who care about you out there.