Watch Jackie's video

Overview

Meeting this need will help me because I have been interested in driving positions, but my expired Arizona license is holding me back. I am ready to get back to work and try out something new.

My goal is to eventually have full time employment with benefits and to move on to my own apartment. Getting a job that fits my skills and my needs is the top priority. This will help. This includes the money necessary to get a driver's license in the state of Illinois.

My current situation is that I live in a recovery home and currently do not have any income besides food stamps. I am in a job readiness program where I have made a resume and practice interviewing for jobs and have even started an internship. I have years of work experience, and I know that being able to drive will open up additional career opportunities for me, like being a driver or possibly working outside of the city.

Right now, my biggest challenge is that I just do not have any solid income. My family does not live anywhere near Chicago, so I do not have anyone to borrow or help me right now.

I think of myself mostly as someone who loves her family very much, especially my 22 year old daughter. I am very compassionate and I do not mind helping anyone whenever I can.

I'm most proud of my daughter, who graduated from college back in May.

I've worked at jobs including Pep Boys, Chevron, and communications companies.

Something interesting about me is I like to laugh and be around people that have a good sense humor and sometimes I can get a little silly myself.

Watch Lauren's video

Validated

Validated by Lauren from The Cara Program (What does this mean?)

I have known Jackie since she came to The Cara Program in January 2013. I have watched her grow as a person, in both her confidence and her performance. She is an important part of the community here--from helping out other students at our facility to actually interning in a security position for our organization.

I think meeting this need is important because Jackie's occupational interests drift towards positions with manual labor and the need to operate a vehicle. I would not want her to miss out on opportunities.

This will move Jackie's life forward by allowing her access to jobs that she is interesting in pursuing, as she works towards her journey of self-sufficiency.

About Lauren

My job title is Individual Development Specialist, a combination of a job coach and case manager. I have been in this position since September 2011. My work involves providing career coaching and generalized case management services for individuals who have just become employed to ensure progress… Read more