From the Sterling Office
Jarred attended our Job Search Workshop at the Sterling Public Library in July with Tammy Nehrkorn, Jack Kromer and Colleen Neary. He was unemployed due to an injury at his previous employer. He worked with Colleen from IDES, and she discovered that he was eligible for unemployment. He worked with Tammy Nehrkorn and Matt Gingrich of BEST, Inc. and was placed in a Work Experience with Lee County IT Department under the supervision of Paul Gorski. Paul worked with BEST, Inc. staff and made some modifications to accommodate his injuries so he could succeed at the work experience. Jarred received lots of training and encouragement from Paul and his team. He learned many new skills in the work experience and was able to gain unsubsidized employment at an area hospital in their IT Department.
Jarred credits the decision to come to our Job Search Workshop at the Sterling Public Library with turning his life around in a few short months.
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In June 2025, Zack reached out to me regarding his employment situation and his goal of finding a stable job. He had recently lost a position through a temporary agency and was in urgent need of work.
As part of the intake process, Zack completed assessments to help determine the best way to serve him. At the time, he was 23 years old, unemployed, and relying solely on SNAP benefits for income. He was not originally from the area and was living in Rock Falls with his girlfriend and her family.
Based on his eligibility as a low-income adult, Zack enrolled in the CDL training program at Sauk Valley Community College in mid-July. While he encountered some challenges during training, he remained dedicated and ultimately earned his CDL in August. Shortly after, he began his job search and was offered a position with Roehl Transport. He is scheduled to begin orientation and training in early October.
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From Dixon Office
I’m so happy with my job and how far I’ve come in such a short amount of time here at SAH! ! I can’t tell you how much
I appreciate the opportunity I’ve been given through the BEST program! You guys are a true blessing Paige, thank you so
much for all you’ve done to be here with me done through this journey!
