Success Stories

United Against Poverty of Indian River County

Like many others, Jenny lost her employment as a result of the shutdowns that came along with the COVID-19 pandemic. Unsure what resources were available to her, she learned about United Against Poverty from a friend.

UP’s Crisis Department conducted a stabilization meeting with her and recommended the Success Training Employment Program. Conscious of her need for motivation and a sense of purpose, Jenny joined STEP, which was being conducted virtually at that time. As a single mother, she found this arrangement convenient. She found the program’s daily emotional intelligence component particularly helpful. She gained insight and self-love through the curriculum.

The opportunity arose for Jenny to interview for a position at Marine Bank, where she was hired as a fulltime teller. “I walked into the interview with courage and confidence,” she says.

Jenny remains engaged with UP, working with her success coach on setting goals toward self-sufficiency. With the support of the UP staff and her employers, Jenny is well on her way to surpassing her goals.

UNITED AGAINST POVERTY OF INDIAN RIVER COUNTY

772-564-9365 upirc.org

MISSION: To serve those in poverty by providing crisis care, case management, transformative education, food and household subsidy, employment training and active referrals to other collaborative social service providers

MAIN EVENT: Burgers & Brews in downtown Vero Beach

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Hands-on work at the campus, family volunteer nights, supervised community service programs, committee and board membership

Founded: 2003

VETERANS COUNCIL OF INDIAN RIVER COUNTY INC.

772-410-5820 veteranscouncilirc.club

MISSION: To support all Indian River County veterans through the collective effort of veteran organizations, civic associations and the local community, thereby raising awareness of veteran needs and of their contributions to society

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Public affairs, emergency aid to veterans, student scholarships, fundraising, community outreach and assistance to veteran homeowners with home repairs, event committee participation, clerical support

Founded: 1987