Power Up! 2014 showcasing Courage and Determination

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill

 

Courage can be measured in so many ways, but for Corinne Tulk, Power Up! program coordinator, courage is measured in the determined faces of six (6) women who, not only chose to accept change, but to embrace it. On February 10, 2015 a small group gathered to honor the accomplishments of those who completed all three phases of the Power Up! program.

A subsidized career development program, Power Up! engages Social Assistance Recipients (SAR) in skill building and work place employment that offers each an opportunity for reflection, self discovery and growth.  With pointed training sessions and practical hands on experiences, participants grow in self confidence, self esteem, determination and willpower to accept a positive change in their lives on their path to self sufficiency.

As Tasha Beaton recounted her experience with Power Up! she spoke of challenges and obstacles and how each sought to overcome them. “It showed our courage and strength, gave us determination that motivated us to complete our program.”

Ms. Beaton thanked supporters who pushed them each day, moving them closer to their goals. “Thank you Corinne and Kim and everyone else for standing by us and being there when we needed a push.”  For 40 weeks under the guidance and support of a program coordinator, community resources, and both sponsoring and funding agencies, participants build an employment and social network that enable them to successfully attach to the workplace or to pursue post secondary training.

Power Up! illuminates the career development pathway for those 25 years and up who recognizes the challenge yet exhibits the courage to strive for balance in both work and life areas.

During Pre-Employment Training participants engage in employment directed training sessions that assist them in building a strong resume.  In addition to skill building, participants engage in a 930 work hour placement while attending biweekly workshops that continue to offer support, social networking and life skills.

Among the six honored, Natasha Lee, a single mother of three spoke of the difficulty returning to the workplace. She spoke of her excitement at being accepted into the program nine months ago. “I was so excited, I said to myself, maybe I can do this.”

Today , standing in front of her peers, family members, CEN and AES sponsors, and community facilitators, Ms. Lee confidently shared her journey and expressed how Power Up! was influential in guiding her to her future goals. “Now that I finished the program, I’ve decided to go back to school and get training so I too can help others achieve all they can. Thank you everyone for believing in me, I will be successful!”