Watch Jamara's video

Updates

Jamara picked up his welding gear! Jul 1, 2014

Jane Addams Resource Corporation wanted to thank Jamara's donors:

"Thanks so much for your support of Jamara! He has been working steadily for the past 4 months and we are so proud of him. Today he came by JARC and picked up his welding gear, which will help him continue in his current job with gear that properly fits and is specific to his needs. Thank you again to all who supported him!"

BIG NEWS for Jamara! Mar 24, 2014

Jessica, Jamara's validator, says:

Jamara got a job! He is working full-time as a welder. His gear should arrive next week. He stopped by the classroom today to say hi to staff and to take his final welding certification exam. Jamara thanks everyone for all their support and wants you to know he is now an employed welder! Thank you all so much!

Overview

I need equipment to start my new career in welding! This includes welding sleeves, gloves, jacket, auto-darkening welding helmet, and steel toe boots.

My goal is to become a full-time welder. If I'm able to bring my own welding equipment, I am more employable and can more easily retain employment once I've been hired. Meeting this need will help me because the equipment and tools are things that I need for a welding job so that I can become a great welder. When I go to job interviews I would have the equipment and tools already to perform the test. If I get a job in welding I would already have the tools and equipment needed to start.

My current situation is that I am unemployed and receiving unemployment right now. At this time I cannot afford to buy the tools and equipment I need for welding. I have 4 kids that I take care of and also provide a roof over our heads. Before I can get a welding job with my new skills I will need this equipment.

I'm from Chicago, IL. I live in Riverdale, IL now with my son. I'm most proud of my kids and how well they are doing in school by being studetns of the month and staying on honor roll. I have 4 kids: 3 beautiful girls and 1 handsome son. Something interesting about me is that I love to cook food for my family and watch sports, and I'm happiest when I'm spending time with my kids!

Validated

Validated by Jessica from Jane Addams Resource Corporation (What does this mean?)

We met when I first interviewed Jamara to be a part of the welding training program. Jamara works hard in class and has a great attitude. He helps newer students to learn as well and is always willing to help the instructor when necessary.

I think meeting this need is important because welding equipment is an expensive investment, one that shows employers a commitment to the profession and one that allows a student to make that transition to owning the profession as his own.

Initially his test scores in math were not high enough to get into welding, so I sent him to our Bridge program to work with our instructor. Once Jamara had improved his math skills 2 grade levels, he was able to move into our welding class. I see Jamara weekly when I distribute CTA passes to the students, and he is a dedicated student.

About Jessica

My job title is Program Coordinator. My work involves case management of all students enrolled in our welding class. What I like about my job is getting to see students get placed in employment and maintaining employment after working so hard. I love watching people pay off debts, save for houses,… Read more