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Success Stories

Mario’s Success Story

Before Mario found JARC Baltimore, life was uncertain. After a work injury at a seasonal factory, he was laid off and took on odd jobs to get by. “Before that I was working in a seasonal factory. I had an on-the-job, work injury, so they laid me off.” When a friend told him about JARC, he decided to give welding a try. “I liked what I was hearing, and I jumped on it,” Mario recalls. Expecting book work, he was surprised to find hands-on training that he loved. “When I saw the hands-on, I automatically fell in love with it because that’s the type of stuff I like to do, working my hands, and I can build stuff, break it down.” His instructors, Miss Kay and Miss Synnamin, provided crucial guidance. “They did a wonderful job helping me better understand everything, fusion of metal, the machines, everything.”

JARC Baltimore to me means family... They go out their way to make sure students are good in all aspects, personal and school-wise.

MarioWelding Graduate at JARC Baltimore

When I saw the hands-on, I automatically fell in love with it because that’s the type of stuff I like to do, working my hands

MarioWelding Graduate at JARC Baltimore

Although the first two weeks were nerve-wracking for Mario, he stayed focused and committed. “Once I really took a step back, listened to my teachers, and tried what they suggested, after that it was smooth sailing.” His dedication paid off: “I passed certification the first test plate I sent through.” Support at JARC went beyond training. “Everyone was wonderful. If I needed help with questions, anything about school or personal, people went beyond their measures to make sure not just me, but everyone was taken care of.” Mario even helped fellow students, calming frustrations and offering hands-on help. During his time at JARC, he received 17 income support sessions, along with one-on-one coaching in employment and finance. He also participated in 26 workshops focused on financial literacy, job readiness, and educational growth.

After graduation, JARC’s job placement team helped Mario find welding opportunities.

Despite some setbacks, he persevered. A call from Brian Miller at Local 219 changed everything: “I just got a phone call from Mr. Brian saying, ‘meet me here,’ and the next day I was a career apprentice with Western Industrial Union Local 219 making $17.60/hr.”

Now, five months in, Mario is thriving as a pre-apprentice welder and assembler, earning over $18.54 per hour. “I love it because I see all this working in my hands… Western has good people who don’t criticize you and are willing to help if you don’t know.” Mario’s life has improved in many ways. “Financially, physically, it did wonders. I bought another car, so I got two cars, me and my wife. Physically, I’m getting stronger from the heavy lifting.” He also treasures diversity at work. “I love meeting different people from other states and parts of the world, learning their culture and language.”

When asked what JARC means to him, Mario says without hesitation: “JARC Baltimore to me means family… They go out their way to make sure students are good in all aspects, personal and school-wise.” His advice to others is simple: “You must be willing to put the time and effort into it because they expect the same commitment from you that they give to teach us. Just show up on time, be willing to learn, and have a good attitude.” Thanks to JARC, Mario isn’t just building metal structures; he’s building a stable, fulfilling career.

Daniel – Success Story

After his mother passed away in 2022, Daniel was unemployed. Having lived in Florida for a couple of years, he returned to Chicago where he utilized the Howard & Evanston Community Center to work on his resume and job search. Someone at that organization was aware that Daniel had a background in computer numerical control (CNC) and recommended Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC). Daniel also became connected with JARC through Truman College and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).  

Daniel soon enrolled in JARC Chicago’s CNC program. He says that the technical aspects, especially software, were his favorite part of the program. In addition to class, Daniel visited JARC to network and use the computer and other resources. Daniel attended 13 employment coaching sessions, four financial coaching sessions, and two income support sessions. He attended nine workshops, covering the topics of interview skills, digital literacy skills, investing, finances, and resume writing, and had access to outside legal counseling. Daniel says that JARC also provided a stipend and work equipment, outfits, and shoes. 

“[I] never was turned away with a question or [when I] needed help."

DanielJARC Chicago, CNC Graduate

Since graduating from the CNC program and receiving his National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) certification in 2024, Daniel has found a job that he loves. He works as a CNC operator setting up machines and machining parts at Star Hydraulics & Pneumatics in River Grove, IL. Daniel describes it as a high-end industrial, automotive, and transportation company that makes mostly industrial hydraulic equipment, including jacks for carts used for pulling airplanes off runways. The company purchased a “three quarters of a million-dollar machine and…they won’t let anybody run it yet, except for me,” he shares proudly. 

When asked what JARC means to him, Daniel’s answer speaks volumes: “family,” he states decisively. 

To fulfill his current career goals, Daniel has chosen to continue his education at JARC. He hopes to pursue computer-aided design (CAD) and to do so, is now taking a CAD class offered by JARC. Daniel wants to work more in the engineering and design areas, and obtain more advanced technical and software skills. He believes that the CAD class will provide the foundation for that and create more opportunities for him.  

The greatest lesson that Daniel learned while at JARC was about the fluctuating nature of CNC machining and the importance of adaptability. When asked what advice he would give to someone applying to JARC, Daniel recommends taking in everything, honoring one’s own pace, and being patient. 

Daniel found a strong sense of community at JARC. He appreciates the welcoming environment that the organization provided, particularly noting holiday gatherings. Daniel says that at JARC, the people are fantastic and that he always had positive experiences. He “never was turned away with a question or [when I] needed help,” he shares. 

When asked what JARC means to him, Daniel’s answer speaks volumes: “family,” he states decisively. “I can’t say enough about it” he says, and expresses that he is deeply grateful for JARC. 

Support JARC and Change Lives on Giving Tuesday 2025!

On December 2nd, 2025,

Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC) is joining organizations around the world in celebrating philanthropy.

As JARC commemorates our 40 years of impact, we are striving to make this year’s campaign more successful than ever. Your support will help us reach our goal of raising $15,000 and make a meaningful difference in our trainees’ lives!  

With this year’s funding challenges, we are relying more than ever on people like you to support us!

Donate now to support JARC!Purchase JARC Merchandise!

A huge shout-out and heartfelt thank you to our incredible Leader Sponsor at Freedman Seating Company for their generous support in matching our Giving Tuesday donations!

At JARC, we ensure that those who work do not live in poverty.

We do this by offering free training for careers in manufacturing like Welding and Computer Numerical Control, focusing on lower-income and unemployed adults. We also provide wrap-around supportive services such as adult literacy education, public aid application assistance, employment coaching, and financial coaching.

“JARC was definitely my springboard that catapulted me to where I am now.”

Toncé, JARC Chicago Welding Program Graduate

Before discovering JARC, JARC Chicago Welding Program Graduate Toncé faced significant challenges. Her past created barriers that made finding stable, traditional employment difficult. Enrolling in JARC’s Welding program, Toncé committed herself to reinventing her life.  

JARC’s comprehensive support was instrumental in Toncé’s transformation. After completing the program, she secured a job at Freedman Seating as a robotic welder. With the foundation she built at JARC, Toncé continued to grow, eventually starting her own business, Restored and Delivered Cleaning Company LLC.  

Today, Toncé is thriving, both professionally and personally. She attributes her resilience and adaptability to the skills and confidence she gained through JARC’s program. “JARC was definitely my springboard that catapulted me to where I am now,” she says.  

This Giving Tuesday,

here are some ways that you can support us in sustaining our programming and mobilizing people out of poverty:

Donate now at your level of choosing—every dollar makes a difference! Support a specific area of our work that speaks to you, such as funding one week of hands-on manufacturing training, buying a pair of steel-toe boots for a new trainee, or helping design and create JARC’s first-ever mascot! 

Thanks to our generous sponsors this year, your donation will be matched dollar for dollar up to $7,500, doubling the impact of your gift!

Donate now to support JARC!

Enter Our Giveaway!

All donations over $100 enter to win a limited-edition mug and donations over $500 enter to win a limited-edition tote bag and mug. These items are designed by our trainees and graduates!

Donate now and enter our giveaway!

Visit our store and purchase our limited-edition t-shirts and mugs designed by our trainees and graduates! Every purchase helps us reach our goal, and fund free training and support services. Wear their story, fuel our mission!

Purchase JARC Merchandise!

Christopher, JARC Chicago Welding trainee, with his winning design! 

Thank you to our generous

matching sponsors!

Leader Level:

Partner Level:

If you have any questions, please contact us at development@jane-addams.org. We appreciate your consideration and hope you will join us in celebrating this special day! 

Important: All donations are designated as General Operating funds to support JARC’s programs and services. While we’ve included examples of what contributions at different levels could help achieve, individual gifts are not earmarked for specific items or programs. Your support helps us continue serving our trainees and community in the areas of greatest need. 

Kendall – Success Story 

Kendall

When Kendall lost his job during the COVID-19 pandemic, his future felt uncertain. He was on probation, working through a temp agency, and trying to figure out his next move. That’s when his probation officer introduced him to JARC. “When COVID hit, they laid me off from my job. So, I’m like, okay, I might as well go to school.” Kendall enrolled in JARC’s Welding Program in 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic. Welding had always been something he was curious about. “It was something that I always wanted to try to pick up anyway,” he said. With no work and the chance to pursue a new path, Kendall gave it a shot.

“JARC is the place to help you move your life forward.”

KendallJARC Chicago, Welding Graduate

Training wasn’t easy. Kendall faced real challenges learning the hands-on techniques that welding requires. “You have to weld something, then pour water and make sure you have no holes…I had to do that a few times before I got it,” he said. But with support from the JARC team, including staff like Liz, who stayed in touch and checked in regularly, Kendall was able to persevere thanks to the direct financial assistance JARC provided to help cover his bills while he was in training. During his time in the program, Kendall received 8 employment coaching sessions, 3 financial coaching sessions, and 6 income support services. He also attended 40 workshops covering topics such as financial literacy, digital literacy, budgeting, saving, networking, online professionalism, work ethic, and resume writing. “They even helped me with my bills that I had at the time because I wasn’t working. Liz helped me a lot,” he explained.

As a result of this support, Kendall made significant strides in his financial health. His career is steady, his family has grown, and he has a strong sense of purpose.

As a result of this support, Kendall made significant strides in his financial health. When he first came to JARC in 2020, his credit score was 685. Just six months later, it had increased by 41 points, reaching 726. By October 31, 2022, his score had risen to 760, and most recently, as of March 29, 2024, it climbed to 768, reflecting a total improvement of 83 points since beginning his career with JARC.

After earning his certification in 2021, Kendall began his career as a forklift operator earning $17.35 per hour. His journey then took him from Illinois to Texas, where he earned his commercial driver’s license (CDL) and transitioned into truck driving, making $26 per hour. Today, Kendall calls Ohio home and has been with the same company for nearly three years. His career is steady, his family has grown, and he has a strong sense of purpose. “I work for Welch Packaging, currently making $28/hr. I’ve been working with them as a driver. Next month makes three years,” he shared proudly.

When asked what advice he’d give others thinking about JARC, Kendall doesn’t hesitate: “It’s the perfect opportunity for you, and I’m gonna tell them just how much JARC helped me. I would suggest anybody to it, for real.” If he had to sum up what JARC means to him in one sentence? “Opportunity. If you want to move your life forward, JARC is the place to help you move your life forward.”

Michael – Success Story

Michael

Before Michael found his way to Jane Addams Resource Corporation Rhode Island (JARC RI), his work life was unpredictable. “From job to job, you know, never really having anything that I was like, set in any kind of career,” he recalls. For years, Michael bounced from one role to another, unsure of what path to pursue. Then one day, his wife came across JARC RI online. “Honestly, my wife seen it online,” Michael said. “That’s how I checked it out.” That chance discovery set in motion a transformation neither of them expected.

“Once we started working on the machines...it wasn’t overwhelming. It made me feel more comfortable.”

MichaelJARC Rhode Island, CNC Graduate

“I didn’t think I’d be able to do it at first, and then by the end of it, I was like, Oh wow. That wasn’t as bad as I thought.”

When Michael enrolled in JARC RI’s training program, it was a leap into the unknown. “The program was nice, I mean, I enjoyed it. At first, it was a little overwhelming,” he admits. But with persistence and support, he found his footing. “I stuck it out, and everybody was pretty nice there and helpful.” Like many adult learners returning to the classroom, Michael faced academic hurdles, particularly with trigonometry. “Trigonometry was kind of a pain,” he said. “I haven’t done it in so long, but once you practice it, it kind of comes back to you.” Thankfully, his instructor John guided him through, providing practice tests and encouragement along the way.

For Michael, JARC RI was more than just a training program; it was a turning point.

Michael also accessed support services during his training, like weekly gas cards to help cover transportation costs. While some funding support changed toward the end of his training, he remained focused on the bigger picture: earning industry-recognized certifications and securing a job. “Once we started working on the machines…it wasn’t overwhelming. It made me feel more comfortable.” Hands-on learning and personalized instruction helped Michael build confidence and real-world skills that set him up for success. While at JARC RI, Michael received three employment coaching sessions and 21 sessions focused on financial, work, and education coaching.

Today, Michael is employed as a Machinist at Senko Advanced Components in Bristol, Rhode Island. “I’m working on a machine, a [computer numerical control] CNC mill machine right now, and it’s pretty easy,” he shared with pride. “Actually, my 90th day was yesterday.” With steady work and a $19.19 hourly wage, soon increasing to $22.50 with a shift differential, Michael is building the stability he once only hoped for. “I just really want to make a decent living and save for retirement,” he said. “Obviously I’d like to move up in the future…I’m being very patient.”

For Michael, JARC RI was more than just a training program; it was a turning point. “JARC led me to a career that I probably wouldn’t have been in if I didn’t attend them.” When asked what he’d say to someone considering the program, his advice is heartfelt: “Give it a chance and not let the work in the beginning discourage you or overwhelm you. I didn’t think I’d be able to do it at first, and then by the end of it, I was like, Oh wow. That wasn’t as bad as I thought.”

Veterans Career Fair Chicago

JARC, in partnership with Total Spark, invites veterans, service members, and military families to join us for a Veterans Career Fair on November 6th from 3–5 PM at the Total Wireless Store (5601 W. Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60634).

This event is all about helping veterans launch rewarding new careers. Hear from a JARC Veteran trainee sharing their career journey, explore hands-on manufacturing training opportunities at JARC, and connect with veteran support organizations ready to help you take the next step.
Representatives from National Able Network’s Veterans Forward Program will be on-site to share resources on employment assistance, career coaching, and veteran-focused job connections.
Attendees who apply to JARC’s program and complete the interview process will receive a $25 gift card (while supplies last). Don’t miss this opportunity to network, gain career guidance, and access support for your next career move.
Register now!

Felipe – Success Story 

When Felipe first arrived in the United States, he worked in restaurants, starting as a dishwasher and gradually moving up to become a general manager. “When I got here, I started as a washer, and I moved up, moved up until I became a general manager,” he recalls. While he valued the skills and English he gained in the restaurant industry, Felipe realized he had reached a plateau. “Being a general manager, I felt stuck. I knew, there would come a point where I’d feel stuck. And that’s what happened. I was like, I’m a general manager, I don’t want to take the next step, but I also don’t see myself as a regional manager at 30 years old.” 

“The part I liked most was job development, practicing interviews. That, plus soft skills sessions, was excellent. I’d never done job interviews before. This prepared me well.”

FelipeCNC Graduate, JARC Baltimore

Looking for a change, Felipe explored opportunities that aligned with his background in mechanical engineering, which he studied for three years in Venezuela. He discovered JARC Baltimore’s CNC training program and immediately saw a path to a career that truly interested him. “When I saw this CNC program, I had the opportunity before to have a lab class back in Venezuela. It was called metallurgy, working with lathes, presses, and all that; but all manually, nothing automated.” Felipe was drawn to the computerized nature of the program and the chance to develop technical skills that would translate into a stable, fulfilling career. 

During the program, Felipe encountered challenges but overcame them with determination and support from JARC.

Learning to operate the CNC machines and programming codes was difficult at first, but he found effective ways to master the curriculum. “What I did was record a video of the instructor explaining each step, then at home I made notes. Step one was this, step two was that. The next day, I followed all steps and told the instructor I was ready to operate the machine. That helped a lot. That was the hardest part.” He also received crucial support from JARC, including gas cards and financial assistance to repair his vehicle, allowing him to focus on completing the program. While in the program, Felipe received two financial coaching sessions, one employment session, and one income support counselling session. He also attended three financial workshops, where he learned practical skills like budgeting and money management. 

Felipe’s experience at JARC went beyond technical skills. Job development sessions, mock interviews, and soft skills training prepared him for the professional world. “The part I liked most was job development, practicing interviews. That, plus soft skills sessions, was excellent. I’d never done job interviews before. This prepared me well.” These experiences, combined with the guidance of instructors and staff, positioned him for success in manufacturing. 

Today, Felipe is thriving in his new career as a CNC Machine Operator at Pace Worldwide. The stability and satisfaction of this role have transformed his life and opened doors for future growth. “If they want a career change and are interested in manufacturing, this is the place. The support team is great, and the program gives you freedom to succeed. It opens doors to new careers.” Reflecting on his journey, Felipe calls his experience at JARC Baltimore a true stepping stone: “It [JARC] opens doors and prepares you for success in a new career. The first door in manufacturing; after that, many doors open.” Thanks to JARC Baltimore, Felipe has transitioned from uncertainty to a career he enjoys, a testament to the power of dedicated training, supportive staff, and a clear path to opportunity. 

Christopher D. – Success Story

Before Christopher joined Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC), his life was a mix of creativity and frustration. With a BFA in Illustration, art was always at the heart of his identity. He worked as an apparel designer and later as a product development designer, cleaning up digital art files for overseas production.

He also poured his passion into freelance projects, painting basketball courts and collaborating with friends, but something vital was missing. “I never felt fulfilled,” Christopher reflects. “Since the day I started that job, I was applying for other roles, chasing that feeling I had back in art school. I felt stuck. I was comfortable, and once you’re comfortable, you stop growing.”

Adrian, my instructor, gives constructive feedback that helps me keep growing. He reminds me I can do this

ChristopherJARC Chicago, Welding Trainee

Determined to find new purpose, Christopher searched for free welding programs near him and found JARC. What began as a simple Google search turned into a pivotal life decision. “Welding felt like a whole different animal, but at the same time, it has similarities to art,” he says. Since enrolling in JARC’s Welding Program at the Austin location in February, Christopher has embraced the structure, intensity, and community that comes with it. He’s working toward his certification and admits that it hasn’t all been easy.

Christopher also highlights the support JARC provides beyond technical training. He receives transportation assistance and participates in weekly financial coaching with Britt. “She teaches us about financial literacy and the options we didn’t even know we had,” he explains. So far, Christopher has completed 5 employment coaching sessions and 6 financial coaching sessions and has also received income support. He’s attended two additional workshops on investing and digital literacy, resources that are helping him build a stronger foundation for his future.

While still training, Christopher recently found joy in winning JARC’s T-shirt design Contest. “I have some experience with graphic design because I went to school for it… I always liked the JARC website, so I was excited to get the opportunity to work on my design”, he shares.

As for what’s next, Christopher dreams of homeownership and financial independence. “[My goals] are very simple,” he admits, “but they feel impossible to achieve at the moment.” Still, he remains focused: “I’m hoping to become a homeowner, have things for myself, live comfortably, gain a little financial freedom, just build something for myself.” At JARC, Christopher has found not just a new skill, but a path forward. And as he continues to weld, design, and grow, one thing is clear: his story is just getting started.

Want to support our mission and get a great T-shirt? Click here to purchase a Chris T-shirt!

Every shirt sold helps us provide free training and wraparound support services for people like Grace, ensuring that hardworking individuals don’t have to live in poverty.

This initiative is proudly organized by JARC’s Associate Board.

Pearl – Success Story

When Pearl first heard about Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC), it wasn’t through a flyer or a website, it was a personal visit. “Somebody came from over there to my job,” she recalls. At the time, Pearl was working at Boye Needle Company near Montrose and Ravenswood. Back in the late ‘80s or early ‘90s, Pearl and a few coworkers attended a computer introduction class at JARC.

“We had Microsoft Word Core 2000, Microsoft PowerPoint and Excel, JARC showed us how to do a lot of stuff.” When her job later moved operations to Massachusetts, Pearl relocated temporarily. But when she returned to Chicago in 2003, she found JARC still standing and still teaching. She didn’t hesitate to dive back in.

JARC is the best place to go, and it’s free. You can learn for free.

PearlJARC Chicago, CNC Graduate

In 2003, Pearl enrolled in JARC’s Computer Numerical Control (CNC) program. Her passion for learning didn’t stop there, she went on to take additional classes in Access, Internet and Outlook, as well as intermediate Word and Excel by 2007. “They had a good graduation for us,” she recalled. “They gave us those little papers and everything. It was nice. I loved it.”

Though she’s now retired, the skills Pearl gained at JARC opened doors for her throughout her career. She held roles in warehouses, assembly lines, and CNC jobs, and even landed a position at Walgreens. “I wasn’t qualified with the computer before,” she said, “but it helped me with the machines they had”. Before long, Pearl found herself training others. “I was like, wow, I’m training people!”

In 2025, she entered the organization’s T-shirt design contest and won. Her entry captured the full scope of JARC’s impact.

“I tried to put everything that I knew that JARC did. My niece helped me put the design on the shirt. I was looking at pictures of people working on computers and machines, it was so helpful.”

When asked to sum up what JARC has meant to her, Pearl doesn’t hesitate: “JARC is the best place to go, and it’s free. You can learn for free.” She continues to advocate for young people to take advantage of the opportunity: “I tell them to go, especially young people. If they’re looking for a job, it helps.”

Pearl’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and the power of accessible education. From mastering CNC machines to designing winning T-shirts, she exemplifies the spirit of lifelong learning that JARC fosters in every trainee who walks through its doors.

Want to support our mission and get a great T-shirt? Click here to purchase a Pearl T-shirt!

Every shirt sold helps us provide free training and wraparound support services for people like Grace, ensuring that hardworking individuals don’t have to live in poverty.

This initiative is proudly organized by JARC’s Associate Board.

Grace – Success Story

Before Grace discovered Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC), she had spent years working in warehouses in Portland, Oregon. She didn’t mind the work, but she felt stuck. “There just wasn’t a lot of mobility,” she said. When she relocated to Chicago, she made herself a promise: no more jobs without a pathway forward. She was ready to level up.

That promise led her to JARC’s CNC machining program, something she hadn’t even heard of before. “Once I learned what CNC machining was, I thought, this seems great. There are so many directions you can take it in.”

Walking into JARC, Grace found more than just a new career path. She found a community of encouragement and practical tools that helped her thrive. “Everyone is just so welcoming right away. Start to finish, it’s a lot of great people and so much support. It’s really unlike anything I’ve been a part of before.”

“They [JARC] really think outside the box and meet people where they’re at”

GraceJARC Chicago, CNC Graduate

The road wasn’t without challenges. But JARC met them head-on, providing critical support services like transportation assistance, new work boots, and prescription safety glasses. “They really think outside the box and meet people where they’re at,” Grace shared. That kind of support made it possible for her to focus on building real skills. While in training, Grace received personalized support to help her succeed beyond the classroom. She had 9 one-on-one employment coaching sessions and attended 16 workshops on budgeting, digital literacy, and financial management. She also took part in 3 sessions focused on income support and financial coaching, giving her the tools to plan for a more stable future.

Grace earned three industry-recognized certifications, gained hands-on experience with machining equipment, and even won JARC’s T-shirt fundraising contest with a custom design she created using 3D software. “It was a cool opportunity to learn something new.”

Today, Grace is proudly stepping into a full-time role as an Associate Machinist at Woodward, MPC, earning $21 an hour, and walking confidently into a future she once couldn’t imagine.

JARC staff were right there with her, even accompanying her on a tour of the company where she now works. That support gave her the confidence and connection she needed to make a strong impression. “I definitely couldn’t have done that without JARC,” she said. “If I can do it, anyone can do it.”

Her message to others? “Just try it. You’ll probably end up surprising yourself with what you’re capable of.”

Want to support our mission and get a great T-shirt? Click here to purchase a Grace T-shirt!

Every shirt sold helps us provide free training and wraparound support services for people like Grace, ensuring that hardworking individuals don’t have to live in poverty.

This initiative is proudly organized by JARC’s Associate Board.