In September of 2023, Jacob, a 24-year-old recent college graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, was referred to the WIOA Youth Program at the Wichita Workforce Center. Jacob, who has a disability that prevented him from holding employment since graduating high school, sought assistance in finding a job outside his field of study.

Jacob’s journey with the Youth Program began with earning his certificates in Labor Market Information and Financial Literacy in November 2023. By December 2023, he had also obtained his Work Readiness Certificate and Leadership Development Certificate. These achievements were just the beginning of Jacob’s comprehensive engagement with the program.

Throughout his time in the Youth Program, Jacob participated in various activities, including comprehensive guidance and counseling, job tours, and work experience. In January 2024 when he was hired for a work experience position at Rock Regional Hospital as a dietary aide. Jacob started at a wage of $13.50 per hour, working 40 hours a week. The Youth Program supported him by providing uniforms to meet the hospital's dress code requirements. Jacob also received fuel reimbursement assistance for five months while participating in his work experience.

In his role at Rock Regional Hospital, Jacob quickly adapted to his responsibilities. He learned to prepare food, stock storage units, and interact with patients, demonstrating excellent attendance and a strong work ethic. Jacob only missed one day of work due to illness and consistently showed progress in his skills and productivity. Through this experience, he developed vital time management, communication, and teamwork skills.

His performance did not go unnoticed and his dedication and hard work paid off and on May 25, 2024. Jacob was permanently hired by Rock Regional Hospital and is now earning $15.00 per hour and continues to work an average of 40 hours a week.