How Worksystems’ Economic Opportunity Programs helped John build a career, find stable housing, and become a leader in his community.

Just a few years ago, John was experiencing homelessness and incarceration. Today, he’s a Care Coordination Manager at Urban Alchemy, overseeing a site serving 210 people and supervising a team of 13 employees.

It’s a future he once couldn’t have imagined.

“If you’d have asked me … three years ago when I was incarcerated or four years ago when I was out on the streets, if I would be managing a site of 210 people … there would have been no way I ever thought that was possible,” he recalls.

John’s journey began to change when he connected with career coach Deb Carabajal through SE Works. Their relationship continued when Deb transitioned to Our Just Future, providing a consistent source of guidance as John worked toward greater stability.

Through Worksystems’ Economic Opportunity Programs (EOP), John received practical assistance with housing, transportation, and work clothing, along with ongoing career coaching.

When John moved into transitional housing, Deb helped him access emergency rental assistance that covered his move into a clean and sober living environment, followed by additional rent support over the next two months.

“That’s what gave me a little push start into being on my own and independent,” John explains.

But the support went beyond financial assistance. As John began building his career at Urban Alchemy, he continued turning to Deb for advice and encouragement, especially when work became challenging.

He recalls moments when he felt ready to quit and called her for support. Having someone to listen, offer perspective, and help him navigate difficult situations made a lasting difference.

Today, John has stable housing, reliable transportation, and a leadership role helping others navigate challenges similar to those he once faced. His work in care coordination connects people experiencing homelessness with housing and other essential services.

For John, his success reflects the combined impact of employment support, housing assistance, recovery services, and the people who believed in him along the way.

“Without programs like this … and all these different people, some mentors and support people, there’s no way I would have got out of it all.”

His story demonstrates how workforce programs that address both employment and everyday barriers can help people achieve lasting stability while creating opportunities to give back to their communities.

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