PAVED BY DONORS, VOLUNTEERS, AND ICS STAFF WORKING TOGETHER
When a person is living in crisis, there is no one-step solution. Moving from crisis to stability, then becoming self-sufficient, is a process that takes time and the kind of support ICS donors and volunteers provide. ICS programs deliver assistance and guidance for every step.
CRISIS
Laura had a medical emergency that used most of her savings and shortly after, she lost her job. She quickly fell behind on her rent and needed to find a new job that would help cover her basic expenses.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
ICS WFD staff and volunteers worked with Laura to update her resume and apply for jobs. They also worked with her to get a degree credential she let go of pursuing a few years ago, so that she can meet her ultimate goal of getting her teacher's certificate renewed and work as a substitute teacher.
FOOD BANK
WFD volunteers shared information with her about the Mobile Food Bank. She visited the Mobile Food Bank location closest to her home for several months to meet her basic needs.
EMERGENCY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Emergency Financial Assistance from ICS helped with rent so she could continue to be housed.
FROM JOB TO CAREER
Laura was hired by a local caregiving company. She also has an offer with a second agency. She plans to work both jobs to help get caught up on bills. She also plans to complete the renewal of her teacher's certificate so that she can return to full-time substitute teaching.
Next Steps
Clients like Laura can keep progressing toward self sufficieny with Life Advancement training courses like Bridges Financial Management. This 10-week workshop covers topics key to building a financial foundation, with coaching from local financial experts.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
From Struggling to Steady Work with Workforce Development
Jeannie began working with Workforce Development (WFD) in early January, and just three weeks later, she landed a job with the University of Arizona’s catering service. With years of experience in the hospitality industry, Jeannie had been juggling multiple jobs but struggled to find an employer offering steady hours throughout the year. Her determination and willingness to work with the WFD team led to a successful outcome that changed her career trajectory.
Jeannie worked with staff member Pam, to update her resume, ensuring it reflected her extensive work history and highlighted her valuable skills in hospitality. “I am really grateful to Pam and Larry, for taking the time to help me with my resume. Had I not had that resume, I couldn’t have even applied,” said Jeannie. Throughout the process, Jeannie also gained valuable computer skills, as she didn’t have access to a computer before working with the team. WFD Volunteer Larry, a former HR manager, helped Jeannie apply for jobs and prepared her for interviews, providing essential support along the way. “Larry gave me the confidence, and we worked together to prepare for the interview. After leaving here, I felt very good about myself,” said Jeannie.
LIFE ADVANCEMENT
Bridges Financial Management Course Begins June 11
Create your financial future story! To enroll in the class, please contact Maryann Moulinet at mmoulinet@icstucson.org or (520) 477-0272.
Classes are held on Wednesdays from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The course runs for 10 consecutive weeks. The first class and final “graduation” are held in person at the ICS Central office (122 N. Craycroft Road), and the other meetings are virtual.
In this class, participant “investors” work with mentors and financial experts to create their financial future story. Classes are made up of 50% prepared material and 50% discussion. Participants are paid a small stipend for their time and expertise.
The course is FREE and is open to the community.
Jeannie and volunteer Larry Bearden.
Spring 2025 Bridges Course Graduates.
Overcoming Struggles with ICS Support
ICS provided emergency financial assistance to over 943 people in 2024. Raymundo was one of those who received support. Here is his story:
Raymundo came to ICS seeking help with several challenges. He was behind on rent, needed a job, required reading glasses to be able to work, and wanted to start rehabilitation to address an addiction issue.
ICS helped by providing him with glasses, assisting with his rent, and connecting him to a rehabilitation program.
Raymundo shared his thoughts on his experience with ICS: “They are there to help people like me do better in life. Thank you, ICS family!”
Helping Families Stay Housed
Jennifer's life took a devastating turn when her mother passed away from cancer. Shortly after, she lost her job at a local car dealership. Left with the heavy burden of supporting her four children, Jennifer feared they would lose their home, as her mother had been helping to pay the rent.
ICS stepped in to provide much-needed assistance with rent and utilities, giving Jennifer a sense of relief and hope. With their help, Jennifer could keep her family stable during this difficult time.
Jennifer shared her gratitude: “I don’t know what I would have done without this amazing community, and I am forever grateful.”
