When we recently connected with our client, Robert, to talk about his experience in our Resiliency Bridge program, we learned something amazing: He had recently accepted a new job as a general manager with a local restaurant chain. The role offers a significant salary bump, and Robert will be able to use more of his IT background as the company continues to grow.
Robert was first introduced to Home for Families when two of his three children began participating in our Dowd Education summer and afterschool programming. The family ended up losing their home in March of 2023, and Robert was able to work with Home for Families to secure new housing.
In addition to helping the family get into stable housing, Home for Families was able to provide Robert with crucial tools and resources to further his education. When a work-related shoulder injury left Robert unemployed, he was able to participate in our Resiliency Bridge program to pursue an IT certification.
While Robert was pursuing his certification, Home for Families provided financial assistance for his family, covering rent, utilities, and car payments. When tires on his car got damaged, Robert’s case manager waited with him to make sure Home for Families could pay for two new tires. And when he couldn’t afford a tank of gas, Robert’s case manager was able to assist with that, too.
Robert graduated from his IT program in July of 2024 and passed the test to earn his certification in January of 2025. And even though he just landed a dream job, Robert isn’t done yet. He’s currently working toward his certification in networking and plans to pursue his cybersecurity certification as well. He described his experience in the Resiliency Bridge program as “life changing.”
“A lot of people don’t know that this type of help exists,” he said.
