Yolanda poseYolanda’s Story –

I Never Thought I Would Be Homeless

I have a Bachelor’s degree and over 15 years of clerical-administrative experience.  I was working in an office till I suddenly lost my job and eventually my apartment.  I never thought I would be homeless – it was quite a shock.
[space height=”10″] DuPage Pads Employment Program – “I felt like Cinderella

Yolanda Using a computerWhen I first came to DuPagePads, my Case Manager immediately referred me to the Employment Coordinator who assessed my skills, advised me on resume writing and interview techniques and helped me search for job opportunities that met my experience with their more than 30 community employers.

Before my interview my Case Manager took me to get fitted for a suit jacket – I felt like Cinderella.

My interview went really well and I got the job!  Now I’m a recruiter for a bus company which allows me the rewarding opportunity to come back to DuPagePads and help others find a career.

DuPage Pads Volunteers – “I’ve never seen anything like them

I am so impressed with DuPagePads volunteers.  They are taking time away from their families to come out and provide meals, services and make sure you have everything you need.  To be honest with you, I have never seen anything like that.  I have definitely been inspired and want to give back to DuPagePads.

Lemons into Lemonade

DuPagePads has been a blessing for me and I feel like we are a family.  They have helped me turn the lemons in my life into lemonade.

~Yolanda, a DuPagePads Program Participant