Natasha Rhoden: 
Broken Down and Building Up

In May 2020, single-mother Natasha Rhoden was ready to start her career and began working with the SkillUP team, administered by the Southeast Workforce Development Board, out of the Sikeston Job Center.

While looking for full-time employment with the help of SkillUP, Natasha discovered her car was in need of a major repair. No longer having reliable transportation or the funds for major repairs, Natasha worried not only about the high cost associated with fixing her vehicle, but her ability to secure a full-time job without a reliable vehicle.

The SkillUP program was able to cover the cost of the vehicle's repair and, with tears in her eyes, Natasha expressed her gratitude.

Together with her case manager, Natasha found a full-time job as a Material Handler at her local "Do It Best" hardware store. Natasha enjoys her work, sorting incoming packages according to their mail carriers. Moreover, she is proud to be earning a living for her family.