“I was struggling a bit, financially. It was harder for me to make ends meet,” explained Brookelyn who sought support from Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota (GESMN) to help her secure a job.

Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) referred Brookelyn to GESMN’s Individualized Placement and Support (IPS) program where she was connected to Sara, a career navigator. “Sara helped me build a resume and look for jobs I wanted. She helped me get a good job that I really enjoy,” Brookelyn added. The IPS program partners with mental health practitioners to support participant’s employment goals.

Brookelyn now works at Riverport Inn as a housekeeper, where she cleans the hotel property. “I can work at my own pace and listen to my music. The people there are friendly,” Brookelyn added. “I really enjoy my job there.”

“[GESMN] helped me gain more confidence with finding and getting a job. It pushed me forward to wanting a job, which has been motivational for me,” Brookelyn said. “Now that I have a job, I’m able to pay my bills. I have more of a routine and schedule. “I’m doing better in general and I’m a lot happier now.”

“I’m really proud of her,” said Sara. “From the first day we met until now, Brookelyn mentioned confidence, and it’s definitely showing. She’s getting her life turned around in the right way and it’s great to be a part of that,” Sara added. “She was able to find a job she wanted and is doing extremely well.”

Brookelyn says to others about GESMN’s IPS program, “If you’re working with the [IPS] program, I think you can get whatever job you’re interested in, but you have got to want the job and want it for yourself.”

GESMN offers nearly 20 career and job training services that help people secure and retain employment. Each year GESMN serves over 5,500 Minnesotans,88% of which report low income. Learn about how we help people open doors to brighter futures here .