Lakeesha Townsend: I know I can do this
Lakeesha Townsend, a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participant, was working hard to complete her high school education through a Southern Missouri Excel Center, which is a tuition-free, accredited program that helps adults earn their high school diploma. Because of her SNAP participation, she was eligible for the SkillUP program, where she was assigned a Case Manager, who was helping her stay career-focused, while she was completing her education.
During this time, Lakeesha’s Case Manager encouraged her to attend a hiring event at the Popular Bluff Excel Center. Knowing that there would be potential employers at the event, her Case Manager helped her choose business-appropriate outfit from the onsite SkillUP clothing closet. This helped Lakeesha look and feel interview-ready. Representatives from the JCPenney® Corporation gave a presentation that outlined career paths with their company. They were also accepting applications at the event, and Lakeesha applied and was hired on the spot!
After a short time on the job, Lakeesha began to earn enough income that she no longer needed SNAP benefits. Additionally, on October 20, 2021, she proudly called her SkillUP Case Manager to tell her that she had earned Employee of the Month! Because of her stellar work, she was promoted from her position as Salon receptionist, to train in the warehouse. From there, it was determined she would train in different store departments, with the ultimate goal of promoting her to a management position.
At the same time, she was still working towards her high school diploma at the Excel Center and doing so well, she was labeled as a role model for other students.
Lakeesha’s Case Manager was so impressed, she nominated her for the SkillUP Student of the Term, saying that she was “committed, respectful, and always does her best.”
When asked how the SkillUP program helped her, Lakeesha first shared that it was the, “encouragement and counseling” that impacted her life so greatly. She spoke of the numerous employers available at the Excel Center, allowing students to truly find and apply for careers that interested them.
“I was so stressed out at my previous job,” said Lakeesha, “my SkillUP Case Manager helped me get back on my feet and encouraged me to apply for several jobs.
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Of her entire experience, Lakeesha says the SkillUP program changed her whole career perspective. “I now have a more positive outlook on life, and I’m excited to see what the future brings. I now know that I can do this!”
We know you can do this too, Lakeesha, and we are so proud of you! A huge shout out to Lakeesha’s Excel Center and SkillUP team. Thank you for all you do!
Read more SkillUP Success Stories.
This publication/program is supported by the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) of the United States (U.S.) Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award by ACF/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACF/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
The SkillUP program is Missouri’s employment and training program for Food Stamp (SNAP) recipients. The program is funded through the United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service. The program is also funded through the Administration for Children and Families, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grant.
Additional Resources
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