Community Empowerment Programs

When Regina and her husband separated, she became a single mother. Regina had no choice but to file for bankruptcy because she was not working and could not continue her financial obligations. She did not let that get her down and soon afterwards, she was accepted into a job search training program. Soon after completing the training program, Regina was employed. Regina had a car that her father had given to her after her husband left, but it was beyond repairable. She needed a car for work, but wanted a vehicle that would not place a heavy financial burden on her family. When she applied for a loan through the Ways To Work program, she was worried her bankruptcy might impact the decision. However, the program was designed for people just like her and she was relieved to be approved for the loan. For Regina, having a dependable car has been a factor in getting to work on time and receiving a promotion to an administrative assistant. The loan has given her the opportunity to begin re-establishing credit, which will open up even more new opportunities. For Regina, having a job and her own car has helped her be an example to her children that with hard work anything is possible. She says, "I just want to be the best mother I can to my children, give them all I can, take them as many places I can, and show them by example what it means to be a responsible adult and a loving parent."