I started out with hardly anyone by my side to guide me in the right direction. I come from the streets of a life of selling drugs to get by. My self-esteem was extremely low, and I felt there was no hope as far as ever having a normal job due to my mental health. 

I started working with a job specialist about eight months ago. I have my therapist, Blair, and substance abuse counselor, Barbara, too. I had my doubts, but I slowly started putting in job applications. I was homeless and jumping from one couch to the next when I could. 

I started working at the local grocery store in town four months later. I got into a small studio apartment shortly after. It wasn't long before I was promoted to one of the managers. Since then, my self-esteem has gotten better. I feel good about myself, and I present myself in a professional manner. I can now walk with my head up. 

The key to this is continuing to take my mental health meds daily, remembering that I'm no better than anyone else, for I could easily be back where I was, and keeping my appointments. It isn't always easy, and I still have bad days, just like anybody else. On those days, I seek help from others, pray, use positive self-talk, and remind myself that this too shall pass.

I got referred to the IPS Program while I was trapped in an abusive relationship, strangled and held by finances.

I am now in my own income-based apartment, going to college for a Pharmacy Tech Certification.

This program was a game changer. I learned the difference between living and surviving and then taught how to get what I wanted/needed out of life. 

Thank you for the program and thank you to Tammy for helping me learn and grow.