Leah joined the NextGen program with the local Workforce Board and was living at The Haven while working hard on completing her tests to receive her High School Equivalency. She tested and passed both her math and reading exams and scored college ready even though she left school in 9th grade.

Leah’s son was out of school due to COVID, and she was continuing to study virtually. She was able to find her own housing but decided to put school on hold due to her son’s schedule. The program kept in touch with Leah and accomplished many goals like getting her permit, a car, and keeping housing. She became ready to return to school and went back to Blue Ridge Community College to study for her diploma and passed two more exams. She took her final test and earned her high school equivalency diploma.

Leah also needed support for employment. The Career Coach for the NextGen helped set Leah up in a paid work experience that would give her professional experience, help start her career after gaps in her resume, and help support herself during school. Her worksite employers appreciated the work she did while she was there, and she learned many skills to translate to future work environments.

Leah’s hard work didn’t go unnoticed, and after her workplace experience ended, she received job offers from Blue Ridge Community College and her host site. Leah is now working at the business that she once interned and working at the community college to help other students follow in her footsteps. Her next goal is to save money and buy a house. With a work ethic like hers, we know that she will accomplish her goals! She appreciates the NextGen Workforce program and all it did for her!