It’s all still new to me. I have a new reality. I was functioning and walking through life – but I was still in a fog. I can’t even put into words what “new” feels like!

Eight years ago, Rahelia walked through the doors of JobsWork MKE and attended one of its first workshops. She received coaching and support, and ultimately secured her job at Outpost Natural Foods.

Since then, Rahelia has excelled in her work, building her confidence, her commitment to work and her skills. She has a new outlook on life, and a sense of hope, joy, and spiritual renewal that continues to grow each day.

She’s helping others, and she’s continuing to learn and transform herself.

I tell them, ‘Don’t smother your dream. Whatever you want to pursue, JobsWork supports you to do that.’

As an alumnus of JobsWork MKE, Rahelia now helps others find their new own new reality. She often sits in on the two-week workshops, telling her story, encouraging others to trust the program and the process. She hopes each person who comes to JobsWork will believe that this is their time to find a new path forward.

I understand now that my Mama is a warrior. It’s deep, the wounds we carry. I’ve been able to reconcile with her.

In the process of helping others, Rahelia has continued her own journey. Through JobsWork, she has learned about trauma and brain science, and she has recognized the impact that trauma has had on her own life. That recognition has helped her to heal and reconcile with her own family.

JobsWork MKE has been like family to her. In fact, Rahelia says that JobsWork MKE is a foundation of support that she has never had before. The team at JobsWork are almost like my brothers and sisters, she says. I do have a blood brother – though I know he’s carrying his own baggage with two hands and his own name on it. But my Mama is my first heartbreak. Every moment I have with her, I’m healing.

JobsWork MKE prepared Rahelia to find – and keep – long-term employment. With our support, she has developed confidence, new skills, and a sense of purpose. But healing is also part of the JobsWork MKE process. For Rahelia and many others, this healing gives way to hope and a desire to grow. Rahelia has rediscovered her creativity, and she hopes to share her story to

JobsWork is my foundational family. Unconditionally, they love me. Non- judgement. No shame. They’re rooting for me too and it’s not fake.

inspire others on their journey. She is also exploring ways to continue to grow professionally.

In love with her new life, Rahelia is eager to keep growing and learning while developing her career. It’s all part of her continued journey, which began with the day she walked into

JobsWork MKE.