Thirty years of Cincinnati Works can be measured in programs and milestones. But the clearest measure of impact is found in the lives of Members who used an opportunity to build something more.
Lirwane Tall: Turning Opportunity Into a Career
When Lirwane Tall came to the United States in 2015, she spoke little to no English. She enrolled in English classes, began working at The Gorilla Glue Company and connected with Cincinnati Works.
She later earned her high school diploma, continued her education at Cincinnati State and advanced from the manufacturing floor into an office position. She earned an Associate Degree in Pre-Business Administration and a certification in Organizational Leadership while raising five children.
Her story shows how education, employment and persistence can build on one another over time.
Juanita Guilford: Seeing the Next Step
After 11 years in housekeeping at The Christ Hospital, Juanita Guilford was offered a Patient Care Representative role but initially hesitated. Her Cincinnati Works coach helped her connect the opportunity to goals Juanita had already identified for herself.
After shadowing the position, Juanita accepted the role. Sometimes advancement begins with seeing your own potential more clearly.
Steve Nutley: Removing One Barrier at a Time
Steve Nutley’s job at Kutol Products was at risk because he lacked reliable transportation. Working with Cincinnati Works, he renewed his driver’s license, addressed reinstatement fees and insurance, used transportation support to stay employed and began saving.
About 18 months later, Steve was driving to work in a car he owned. The vehicle was tangible evidence of a larger change: greater stability and more control over his future.
Thousands of Lives, Thousands of Definitions of Success
Success can be a diploma, a promotion, reliable transportation or the confidence to pursue a new role. The details differ because every Member’s journey is different.
That is the human impact behind 30 years of Cincinnati Works: people using opportunity and support to write their own next chapter.