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Before discovering JARC, Tonce’ faced significant challenges. Her past created barriers that made finding stable, traditional employment difficult. She knew that she needed to find a new direction, one that would accommodate her background and provide her with a fresh start. This realization led her to explore the trades, a field where she believed she could build a promising future.

Tonce’s turning point came when, back in 2015, she attended an orientation at JARC. “Patricia made me feel so authentic and genuine in wanting to help someone with a background like mine. She said, ‘No matter where you come from or what you’ve done in the past, come to us, and we will make sure that we take care of you.'” Inspired by this message, Tonce embarked on her journey with JARC.

"JARC worked with me all the way through the financial coaching, the soft skills classes on Fridays, and the hands-on training with welding

Tonce

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

Enrolling in JARC’s welding program, Tonce’ committed herself to reinventing her life. JARC’s comprehensive support was instrumental in her transformation. “I needed help with those soft skills, you know, because I was a little rough around the edges. JARC worked with me all the way through the financial coaching, the soft skills classes on Fridays, and the hands-on training with welding.” This holistic approach not only taught her a valuable trade but also prepared her to navigate and sustain a professional career. While in the program, Tonce’ received 37 financial coaching sessions, 6 employment coaching sessions, and 23 income support counseling sessions. She also attended nine workshops about financial literacy and job readiness.

Enrolling in JARC’s welding program, Tonce’ committed herself to reinventing her life.

After completing the program, Tonce’ secured a job at Freedman Seating as a robotic welder. She was quickly promoted to shift lead and received an Individual Achievement Award from the Workplace Innovation and Opportunity Act Program. Despite her success in the welding industry, Tonce’ realized that her true calling lay elsewhere. She was able to leverage the soft skills and financial stability she had gained to smoothly transition into a new career in retail at Dollar Tree and later into housekeeping at Indiana Wesleyan University. Reflecting on her journey, Tonce’ emphasized the profound impact of JARC. “JARC was definitely my springboard that catapulted me to where I am now.” With the foundation she built at JARC, Tonce’ continued to grow, eventually starting her own business, Restored and Delivered Cleaning Company LLC. She attributes her resilience and adaptability to the skills and confidence she gained through JARC’s program. Tonce’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative potential of supportive educational programs,

like JARC’s Careers in Manufacturing Programs. “If you’re ready to do the work and utilize your resources, JARC is the place to be.” Her journey from overcoming a difficult past to becoming a successful entrepreneur and valued employee demonstrates the life-changing impact that a dedicated support system can provide. Today, Tonce’ is thriving, both professionally and personally. She is now 54, and she is working on her savings to ensure a comfortable retirement.  She cherishes the time she spends with her grandchildren. Her story is a beacon of hope and inspiration for anyone facing similar struggles, proving that with the right support and determination, it is possible to turn one’s life around completely. “No one can do the hard work for anyone. This is something that you have to do yourself, but JARC gives you the chance to make it happen.”