WorkSource Southwest Georgia March 2026 Newsletter

Service Delivery Locations and Contact Numbers:

Please use contact information below:



(229) 255-3940

swga_wioaworks@equusworks.com

One Stop Comprehensive Center:

Albany Department of Labor - (229) 430-5042

1608 South Slappey Blvd., Albany GA 31701

Affiliate Sites:

SRTC-Bainbridge

Moultrie Department of Labor

Southern Regional Technical College   

(Moultrie Campus)

Southern Regional Technical College

(Thomasville Campus) - (229) 225-5065

Thomasville Dept. of Labor

Introducing WorkSource Southwest Georgia's Newsletter! Look for it in your email inbox about once a quarter and check out our news and upcoming events. 

From the Team of WorkSource Southwest Georgia, we would like to wish you and your family a Happy, Health and Prosperous 2026!

Call To Action!

It’s time to take advantage of an opportunity that was awarded to WorkSource Southwest Georgia. 

“Georgia-Pacific Employment Recovery Dislocated Worker Grant Training Opportunity.”

Purpose

I.             The intent of the grant is to assist those Employees that were impacted by the plant closure of Georgia Pacific in Early County. (Including Employees who reside in Alabama and Florida)

II.           The grant can also assist those who have been laid off or given notice of an impending layoff.

III.          The grant can also assist those who are currently receiving or have exhausted Unemployment Insurance Benefits in the following counties: Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Terrell, Thomas, Seminole, Worth.

Job Seekers (Benefits)

I.             Paid, on the job training to rebuild and enhance careers

II.           Skills training in high-demand industries

III.          Supportive service assistance with transportation, childcare, and other costs.

Employers (Benefits)

I.             Wage reimbursement of up to 50% when you hire new workers for on-the job training.

II.           Access to pre-screened talent ready to work and gain new skills as they work.

III.          Community impact by helping local workers get back into stable, meaningful employment.

How can you Help?

I.             Post Stronger Together flyer on all your social media outlets

II.           Share the information within your community and family

Please send all referrals for the Dislocated Worker Grant and Adults (18 -older) to:  

Referral email: swga_wioaworks@equusworks.com 

Referral contact number: (229) 255-3940

OR

Share the QR Code found on the flyer

Opportunity for Out-School Youth!

• Do you know a youth between the age of 16 -24 years old?
• Did not complete High School?
• A youth who is within the age of compulsory school attendance, but has not attended school for at least the most recent complete school year calendar quarter;
•  A recipient of a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent who is a low income individual and is basic skills deficient or an English language learner;
• An individual who is subject to the juvenile or adult justice system;
• A homeless individual;
• An individual who is pregnant or parenting;
• A youth who is an individual with a disability;
• A low-income individual who requires additional assistance to complete an educational program or to secure or hold employment.

Please send referrals for Out-of-School Youth to Shirley Ingram, One-Stop Operator:

Referral Email: shirley.ingram@equusworks.com

Referral Contact number: (229) 878-4361

Spotlight on ordinary people who are doing extraordinary things. Team WorkSource Southwest Georgia (Amanda, Gerlissa, Rebecca, Pascha and Jerry) for always going above and beyond for both our internal and external customers. 

Until next time……………………………………………………Melody Pierce

6th Annual South Georgia Healthcare Summit

The 6th Annual South Georgia Healthcare Summit was held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at the UGA Conference Center in Tifton, Georgia. This year’s Summit once again brought together educators, healthcare providers, workforce professionals, and community leaders committed to strengthening the healthcare talent pipeline across rural South Georgia.

The day began with registration, networking, and vendor visits, giving attendees valuable time to connect and explore resources. Opening announcements were delivered by WorkSource Directors Roberta Lovett and Melody Pierce, setting the tone for a day focused on collaboration and action. Kristen Laarhoven, Executive Director of the Office of Workforce Development at Technical College System of Georgia, officially welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of aligning education and workforce strategies to meet the region’s growing healthcare demands.

Scholarship Award announcements were presented by Jerry Chapman, Melody Pierce, Urie Register, and Amy Jones, highlighting continued investment in developing the next generation of healthcare professionals. The Scholarship Programs include those for High School Seniors entering a Healthcare Pathway and Post Secondary Students already in a Healthcare Pathway. The programs are funded by sponsorships for the Summit. Since the Scholarship Programs started 3 years ago, over 60 scholarships have been awarded totaling $32,000.

Opening speakers were Tammy Bryant, Director of Curriculum for Allied Health with the Office of Technical Education, and Joseph Echols, Executive Director of Secondary Education Initiatives at the Technical College System of Georgia. Both speakers reinforced the importance of strengthening partnerships between K-12, postsecondary institutions, and employers.

Breakout sessions allowed attendees to dive deeper into key focus areas:

• Pathways – Education Pipeline: Strengthening connections from high school to postsecondary training and into healthcare careers.
• People – Employee Strategies: Addressing recruitment, retention, and workforce development best practices.
• Progress – Innovation & Technology: Exploring advancements shaping the future of healthcare delivery and training.

Mobile units stationed in the parking lot offered hands-on demonstrations, including the Phoebe Putney Health System Simulation Mobile Center, the Miller County Hospital Mobile Clinic, and the Southeastern Telehealth Resource Mobile Learning Center. These interactive exhibits showcased innovative tools expanding healthcare access and training throughout rural communities.

Following lunch, sponsor highlights and a vendor raffle added to the day’s energy and engagement. With approximately 265 attendees and 38 vendors, the Summit demonstrated strong regional support and collaboration.

The day concluded with a signing ceremony formalizing an Articulation Partnership between the American College of Education and the Technical College System of Georgia, marking a significant step forward in expanding educational pathways and career advancement opportunities in healthcare.



The 6th Annual South Georgia Healthcare Summit continues to serve as a catalyst for innovation, partnership, and workforce growth—building a stronger future for rural healthcare in South Georgia.

REAL Skills Day

On February 24, 2026, students from high schools across the region gathered at Albany Technical College for the annual REAL Skills Day — a hands-on, high-impact event designed to prepare juniors and seniors for life beyond graduation.

REAL Skills, which stands for Regional Employability And Life Skills Day, was made possible through a strong partnership between WorkSource Southwest Georgia, Albany Technical College, The YOU Network, and LifeLink of Georgia. The event focused on equipping students with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to transition successfully into the workforce or post-secondary education.

Albany Technical College President Emmett Griswold welcomed students and encouraged them to take full advantage of the day’s opportunities. His message centered on preparation, professionalism, and positioning themselves early for success.

Throughout the day, students participated in interactive life and employability skill-building activities. They learned how to connect professionally, complete job applications effectively, and strengthen essential soft skills that employers consistently rank as critical.

WorkSource Southwest Georgia Executive Director Melody Pierce led an engaging soft skills activity, challenging students to think critically about communication, teamwork, and workplace expectations. Her session reinforced the importance of attitude, accountability, and adaptability in today’s job market.

Breakout sessions exposed students to career pathways in high-demand industries, including the Military, Healthcare — featuring the Phoebe Simulation & Innovation Mobile Unit — Automation & Robotics, and the Georgia Power Lineman Program. These sessions gave students a practical look at real-world career options and the training required to pursue them.

Randae Davis, CEO of the Darton Foundation, delivered a powerful session titled “Secure the Financial Bag,” guiding students through scholarship opportunities and smart financial steps to support their educational goals. His message emphasized that planning early and applying consistently can open doors to funding and long-term financial stability.



Lunch was sponsored by Courtney Proctor with LifeLink of Georgia, who also led a meaningful “Lunch & Learn” discussion on the organization’s lifesaving organ transplant program. Students gained insight into how organ donation impacts families and communities across Georgia.

Lisa Stephens, Associate VP for Academic Affairs, Business/Healthcare Technology Albany Technical College, gave words of wisdom from the College.

Carla Hawkins, Founder of The YOU Network, closed out the experience with a dynamic REAL Skills exercise that reinforced the day’s lessons and encouraged students to take ownership of their future paths.

REAL Skills Day 2026 delivered more than information — it delivered exposure, engagement, and empowerment. By bringing together education, workforce development, industry leaders, and community partners, the event continues to build a stronger, more prepared pipeline of young talent for Southwest Georgia.

Southeastern Employment & Training Association

SETA Spring Conference

The Southeastern Employment and Training Association (SETA) hosted its 2026 Spring Conference March 1–4 at the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld in Orlando. The semi-annual event brought together workforce development professionals from across the Southeast and beyond for four days of learning, collaboration, and strategic networking.

Designed to facilitate professional growth and strengthen regional partnerships, the conference featured a dynamic lineup of workshops tailored to workforce development boards, service providers, and partner agencies. Sessions addressed timely topics impacting workforce systems, while also creating space for attendees to exchange ideas, share success stories, and troubleshoot common challenges.

Participants were encouraged to fully engage with presenters and peers, capitalizing on the collective expertise in the room. The conference reinforced SETA’s commitment to equipping workforce leaders with innovative strategies and practical tools to better serve job seekers and employers throughout the region.

Representing WorkSource Southwest Georgia, Executive Director Melody Pierce and Regional Planner Jerry Chapman attended the conference and led a featured session titled, “Collaboration Is the Lifeline of Sustainability for a Unified Workforce System.” Their presentation emphasized the importance of cross-agency alignment, strong community partnerships, and shared accountability in building a resilient and sustainable workforce ecosystem.

The session highlighted real-world examples of collaboration in action and sparked meaningful dialogue among participants about strengthening partnerships within their own communities. Through active engagement and knowledge sharing, the conference underscored the power of collaboration in advancing workforce development efforts across the Southeast.

The conference’s value extended beyond the knowledge gained or insights observed; it also came from the meaningful connections made with valuable resources, including potential funding opportunities and other key takeaways.

WorkSource Georgia Academy

The 2025 WorkSource Georgia Academy Conference convened workforce professionals from across the state on December 2–3 for a dynamic, high-impact gathering at the Jekyll Island Convention Center.

Designed for workforce development professionals and service providers, this year’s conference embraced the theme “Agents of Change,” highlighting innovation, collaboration, and leadership within Georgia’s workforce system.

Conference briefings covered timely and relevant topics, including Who Is Economic Development?, Inside HR: What Employers Really Want, Free Media: How to Do More with Less, and One Team, One Goal: Strengthening Internal Collaboration at the Office of Workforce Development.

WorkSource Southwest Georgia Executive Director Melody Pierce and Southwest Georgia Workforce Development Board Chairman Gabe Lord participated in a panel discussion focused on Local Board Engagement, sharing insights and best practices from their regional experience.

The conference opened with welcoming remarks from Karen Kirchler, Deputy Commissioner of Workforce Development for WorkSource Georgia, who introduced the keynote speaker, Stuart Countess, President and CEO of Kia Georgia and Chairman of the State Workforce Development Board. His remarks reinforced the importance of strong partnerships and forward-thinking leadership in shaping Georgia’s workforce future.

Jerry Chapman and Amy Jones Present at Georgia’s Workforce 2025 Conference

Jerry Chapman, Regional Planner for WorkSource Southwest Georgia and Co-Project Manager for the Southwest Georgia Healthcare Partnership, and Amy Jones, Workforce Development Director, Northeast Georgia Regional Commission served as a panel speakers at Georgia’s Workforce 2025 Conference, hosted by the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government.

The conference held November 18–19 at the UGA Center for Continuing Education in Athens, brought together leaders from across the state to explore strategies for strengthening Georgia’s workforce and enhancing regional collaboration.

Jerry and Amy participated in a panel titled “Regional Partnerships for Success: Examples of Collaboration Across Industries and Organizations in Georgia”. 

During the session, they highlighted the success of the Southwest Georgia Healthcare Partnership and the South Georgia Healthcare Group, including their collaborative initiatives, healthcare workforce scholarship programs, and the significance of the South Georgia Healthcare Summit. The 6th Annual South Georgia Healthcare Summit would take place on February 10, 2026, at the UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center. They also noted that sponsorships for the Summit directly fund the South Georgia Healthcare Partnership Scholarship Programs, helping expand training and education opportunities across the region.



Jerry and Amy’s presentation underscored the importance of regional partnerships in advancing workforce development, meeting critical industry needs, and supporting long-term economic growth across Southwest Georgia.

Rural Day at the State Capitol

WorkSource Southwest Georgia Executive Director Melody Pierce recently represented the region at Rural Day at the Capitol, held February 12, 2026, at the historic Georgia Freight Depot in Atlanta.

Rural Day at the Capitol brings together leaders from across the state to focus on the opportunities and challenges facing Georgia’s rural communities. The event provided valuable insight into current legislative priorities and statewide initiatives impacting economic development, education, workforce, and industry growth.

Highlights of the day included:

• Rural Development Committee Update – An overview of ongoing efforts and policy initiatives designed to strengthen rural infrastructure, business development, and community sustainability.
• Forestry in Georgia: Industry Needs and Policy Considerations – A discussion on the economic impact of forestry across the state and the importance of supportive policies to maintain growth and competitiveness.
• Education and Workforce in Rural Georgia – A timely conversation focused on aligning education systems with workforce demands to ensure rural communities remain competitive and prepared for future opportunities.
• Georgia Chamber Rural Update – Key updates on advocacy efforts and initiatives supporting rural economic vitality.
• Georgia Chamber Affiliate Updates – Regional insights highlighting collaborative efforts across local chambers and partner organizations.

Attendance at Rural Day at the Capitol reinforces WorkSource Southwest Georgia’s commitment to staying informed on state-level policy discussions that directly impact workforce development and economic growth in rural communities. By engaging in these conversations, WorkSource Southwest Georgia continues to position the region for strategic partnerships, funding opportunities, and long-term success.

Director Melody Pierce WALB Appearance

EARLY COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) - A federally funded program is helping individuals across Southwest Georgia recover from job loss and prepare for new career opportunities, according to local workforce leaders.

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, known as WIOA, serves adults, youth and dislocated workers who face barriers to employment, said Melody Pierce, Executive Director of Worksource Southwest Georgia. The program provides funding for job training and education, allowing participants to choose eligible public or private training providers.

Additional funding after mill closure

Pierce says that the recent closure of the Georgia-Pacific paper mill in Early County, impacted more than 500 workers, and led to additional funding through the National Dislocated Worker Grant. That funding now supports job seekers across 14 counties in Southwest Georgia.

“I see the purpose and the benefit of this program,” Pierce said. “The human factor kicks in. It keeps me very grounded and humble because I know at the blink of an eye, I can be that person on the other end that needs someone to assist them throughout the process.”

WIOA services are available through the Albany Department of Labor Career Center, with additional locations in Thomasville and Moultrie, Pierce said. The program also offers benefits for employers through on-the-job training, including reimbursement of up to 50 percent of an employee’s wages for as long as six months.

Job seekers and employers interested in learning more are encouraged to contact the administrative office at 229-336-2378 or visit their local career center for more information.

WALB Appearance Link

Mental Health First Aid Training

On February 17, a Mental Health First Aid training was sponsored by Mitchell County Children & Youth, led by Executive Director Jessica Jennings, in partnership with Baker County Family Connection. The training was conducted by staff from the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) and focused on equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to recognize and respond to signs of mental health challenges.

Attendees included Melody Pierce, Executive Director of WorkSource Southwest Georgia, and Shirley Ingram, One-Stop Operator. The training provided valuable information and practical strategies for supporting individuals experiencing mental health concerns, while also strengthening collaboration among community partners dedicated to improving the well-being of residents across the region.

WIOA Orientation

On Friday, January 23rd WorkSource Southwest Georgia Executive Director Melody Pierce, Shavonne Threats, and Shirley Ingram

facilitated an in-person W.I.O.A Orientation at the Albany Career Center at 1:00 p.m. Those in attendance from both Dougherty and Lee Counties had expressed interest in learning more about the services available through the program.

Georgia Department of Community Affairs Community Informational Session

On Wednesday, February 4^th, Executive Director Melody Pierce recently attended the Georgia Department of Community Affairs Community Informational Session focused on the Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV) Program. The session provided valuable updates on eligibility requirements, referral processes, and strategies for connecting individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing instability with critical housing resources.

Hosted by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, the informational meeting highlighted how community partners can collaborate more effectively to ensure vulnerable populations are aware of and able to access the Emergency Housing Voucher Program.

Also in attendance were Sharon Warren, Regional Operations Manager; Calandria Clemons, Employment Services Specialist; Shirley Ingram, One Stop Operations Manager; and Shavonne Threatts, Lead Talent Development Specialist. Representing community partnership efforts was Shaundra McCloud-Stephens, Program Manager with Liberty House of Albany, Inc..



The session emphasized the importance of strong partnerships between workforce development, housing agencies, and community-based organizations. By aligning resources and maintaining open lines of communication, local leaders continue working together to remove barriers and promote stability for individuals and families throughout the region.

Eckerd Connects, Paxen Graduation Ceremony

On January 30, 2026, Eckerd Connects, Paxen, proudly celebrated the accomplishments of the Class of 2025–2026 during a Graduation Ceremony held at Greater Faith & Deliverance Ministries in Albany. The ceremony marked a meaningful milestone for students, families, staff, and community partners as they gathered to honor the hard work, perseverance, and growth of each graduate.

Hosted by Eckerd Connects, Paxen in collaboration with WorkSource Southwest Georgia, the event highlighted the power of partnership in preparing young people for success in education, employment, and life. The evening served not only as a celebration of academic achievement, but also as recognition of the determination and resilience demonstrated by each student throughout their journey.

Graduates of the Class of 2025–2026 included:

• Keyondre Hall
• Na’Keshia Henderson
• Isaiah Holder-Keih
• Kelly Jean-Mary
• Jacorian Jones
• Kenya McDaniel
• Jayden McDonald
• Destin Rakestrau
• Llenaj Robinson
• Willie Stephens
• Zion Williams

As each graduate crossed the stage, applause filled the sanctuary—an expression of pride from family members, mentors, and community leaders who have supported them along the way. The ceremony reflected the shared commitment of local organizations to invest in the future of Southwest Georgia’s youth.



The Class of 2025–2026 leaves with new skills, renewed confidence, and expanded opportunities. Their achievements stand as a testament to what can be accomplished when dedication meets support. Congratulations to each graduate on this well-earned success and best wishes for the bright futures ahead.

WorkSource Southwest Georgia Shares Workforce Opportunities with Early County Leaders

On February 4th, Melody Pierce, Executive Director of WorkSource Southwest Georgia, delivered a comprehensive presentation to the Early County Family Connection in Blakely, Georgia, highlighting critical workforce resources available to the community.

Pierce focused on the National Dislocated Worker Employment Recovery Grant and outlined the wide range of services and opportunities available to eligible individuals. She explained how the grant supports workers impacted by job loss, providing funding for training, career services, supportive assistance, and pathways back into sustainable employment. Emphasis was placed on connecting displaced workers with in-demand industries and strengthening the local workforce pipeline.

The session brought together a strong group of community and workforce leaders committed to advancing economic opportunity in Early County. Those in attendance included Early City Councilwoman Margaret Davis; Erin Lee, Executive Director of Early County Family Connection; Charle Sol, Local Workforce Development Board Member; and Christopher Drake, District Director for Sanford D. Bishop Jr. and Geshebria Blocker, Business Service Recruiter for the WorkSource Georgia Office of Workforce Development.



The presentation reinforced the importance of collaboration between workforce agencies, local government, and community organizations to ensure residents are aware of and able to access employment and training resources. Through initiatives like the National Dislocated Worker Employment Recovery Grant, WorkSource Southwest Georgia continues to play a vital role in strengthening the region’s workforce and supporting economic resilience.

National Dislocated Worker & Employment Recovery Grant Presented to Blakey Mayor & Council

Executive Director Melody Pierce presented the National Dislocated Worker and Employment Recovery Grant opportunities to City of Blakely Mayor and City Council on Tuesday, February 3rd.

Pictured with Director Pierce are:

• Susanne Reynolds, Director Early County Development Board
• Matt Lee, City Council Member
• Travis Wimbush, Mayor

Brenton Nelson Success Story 

Mr. Brenton Nelson originally reached out to WIOA in February 2024 in attending CDL training at Wealthy Life Academy. Mr. Nelson began the training in March of 2024 but had to withdraw from training due to medical issues. Later on in the year Mr. Nelson was transferred to current case manager. In June 2025, Mr. Nelson inquired about re-entering CDL training. Mr. Nelson also expressed wanting to attend CDL training at Albany Technical College. Mr. Nelson expressed that it was one of his lifelong dreams to obtain his CDL's and become employed as a CDL driver. After providing medical, school and updated CDL permits, it was determined that Mr. Nelson would benefit from returning to CDL training to become a CDL driver. After initially experiencing barriers regarding medical issues, Mr. Nelson was even more determined to be successful. Mr. Nelson returned to CDL training at Albany Technical College in August 2025 and successfully completed training in October 2025. Mr. Nelson maintained all A's while working full-time. Mr. Nelson has applied for CDL driver positions and is very confident that he will become employed as a driver soon. Mr. Nelson has shown determination to meeting his goal to obtaining his CDL credentials throughout his training. It has been a pleasure to assist Mr. Nelson in achieving his goals. 

In Brenton's own words, "The WIOA program and Patricia Cain have been a beacon of hope in my life. Her kindness, expertise, and responsiveness have helped me overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. She is truly a living angel! I'm deeply thankful for her presence in my life and the profound impact she's had on my journey. If you're struggling, I highly recommend reaching out to the WIOA program!"

Lauryn Hurst Success Story

Lauryn Hurst was enrolled with Equus WorkSource SWGA in 2024 for work-based learning. She was 21 years old and living in a high poverty area. She attended transitional jobs training at Sweetly Shealy’s as a kitchen aide and did wonderfully. Lauryn was hired full-time upon the

completion of her training and is now the manager. Shealy Harrell, the owner of Sweetly Shealy’s, said that Lauryn has been an amazing employee. She also stated that Lauryn runs all aspects of the bakery and that she could not ask for a better manager for her business. Lauryn told her case manager, Crystal Livingston, that she loves her job and is very grateful for WorkSource and Shealy Harrell for giving her the opportunity to learn and advance her skills.

Myeshia Marshall Success Story

Myeshia Marshall has successfully completed her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) training and passed the NCLEX exam, officially earning her LPN license. Her journey is a powerful example of dedication and perseverance.

While working at DaVita in Tifton, GA as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Myeshia remained committed to her education, attending all her classes and completing three semesters of rigorous training. Her hard work paid off when she transitioned into a full-time role at DaVita Tifton as a Licensed Practical Nurse on October 12, 2025. This promotion came with increased pay and expanded responsibilities.



Myeshia's story highlights the strength of balancing work and education to achieve career advancement. We celebrate her success and look forward to her continued growth in the healthcare field.

From Checkout Counter to Corner Office; Unlocking her potential

Kenya McDaniel

Kenya spent most days behind the counter of a small convenience store, working long hours that left her exhausted. To others, it was an ordinary job — but to her, it felt like a cage. She had always dreamed of a career in business administration, a field where her natural organizational and leadership skills could shine. Life, however, took her off course after high school, and one year away from college turned into many. The convenience store paid the bills, but not her ambitions.

Everything changed when a regular customer told her about a local workforce development program. Kenya doubted herself at first — worried about balancing work, transportation challenges, and starting over academically. But she applied anyway.

The program became a turning point. With help from career coaches, tutors, and advisors, Kenya built a clear plan for her future. She received time-management support, financial-aid guidance, and encouragement that helped her believe her goals were possible again. Transportation assistance and referrals helped her eliminate barriers, and with her family’s support, she was able to attend every required appointment. She even earned her driver’s license.

As she completed training, Kenya discovered that the skills she used every day at the convenience store — managing inventory, handling money, assisting customers, and problem‑solving under pressure — were real, transferable business skills. Her confidence grew.

She completed soft‑skills training and earned the NRF Foundation’s RISE Up Retail Fundamentals Credential, proving her readiness for roles beyond retail. She set two goals: secure stable employment and return to school at the local technical college. After receiving guidance on transitioning into post‑secondary education, she enrolled in a paid Work Experience (WEX) program, gaining hands‑on, supervised job training that prepared her for professional office work. A structured job search with her specialist helped her take the final steps toward employment.

The day she completed the program, Kenya felt truly proud — she had pushed through financial challenges, family responsibilities, self‑doubt, and the fear of starting over.

Soon after, Kenya accepted a full‑time position as a Tax Specialist with the local County Tag & Title Department. Sitting at her desk on her first day, organizing her workspace and beginning her training, she realized she was finally living the career she once could only imagine.



Looking back, the convenience store wasn’t a dead end. It was the beginning of her story — proof that determination, support, and belief in yourself can reopen doors you once thought were closed.

Event & Meeting Schedule

Workforce Development Board Meeting: March 9th, 6pm - 7:30pm Workforce Development Board Meeting, WorkSource Southwest Georgia Admin. Office, 75 W. Broad St., Camilla GA

Workforce Development Board Meeting: June TBD, 6pm - 7:30pm Workforce Development Board Meeting, WorkSource Southwest Georgia Admin. Office, 75 W. Broad St., Camilla GA