At its May 18, 2012 Board meeting, the Tri-County Workforce Investment Board, Inc. (TCWIB) awarded Beth Barnes a STEP Award for her success in the TCWIB EARN Program. Prior to enrolling in the EARN Program in June 2011, Beth Barnes was a single mother of three children. At that time, Beth’s children were in the care of her aunt as Beth struggled to maintain her sobriety. Beth did not have a driver’s license or learner’s permit and had focused solely on getting by day to day. Beth’s sobriety was of the utmost importance to her and she knew that her life had more meaning than the past she was about to leave. Beth knew that a change for the better was needed.
Upon enrolling in the EARN Program on June 14, 2011, Beth was involved in a sobriety program with an excellent counselor. Beth felt a connection to her and through the counselor’s support, Beth maintained her sobriety. At the time that Beth enrolled in the EARN Program she did not have a driver’s license and little work history. Together with the Operation’s Manager at the Shine Again Boutique, Beth’s Case Manager enrolled her into community service at Shine Again. There, over a period of four months, Beth learned extensive customer service skills, store operations, and Beth’s confidence in herself grew.
During that time, Beth also received an honor through the Drug and Alcohol Commission, as she was chosen to attend a Drug and Alcohol Conference in Harrisburg on September 20 and 21. There, Beth spoke about her sobriety and how she succeeded in living a drug-free life. Also during that time, Beth was able to reinstate the custody of her children. She felt that she was able to care for them in the way that she had always hoped; in the manner that was in their best interest.
In October 2011, Beth interviewed at Ross Ridge Manor and was hired as a Resident Aide. There she assists residents in daily living. Beth states that she truly enjoys her job and feels as though she is making a huge impact on the residents. Beth continues to work on obtaining her driver’s license and has maintained her sobriety, achieving her goal of showing her children how to “be successful and do right” in life.
The EARN staff witnessed Beth helping other young girls realize their self worth. She uplifted their self-esteem and remained an inspiration to others who struggled to maintain sobriety. Beth is an excellent mother and was a wonderful client. We are honored to present the May STEP award to Beth Barnes and feel that she is very deserving of this honor.
TCWIB’s STEPS Success Program recognizes Success with TCWIB Programs, Employers, Participants, and Staff.
Picture from left to right - Beth Barnes, Mia McMillen (TCWIB EARN Administrator), Jim Ferguson (TCWIB Chair)