From Addiction to Financial Stability

When Lacy began United Way's York County Impact Fund self-sufficiency program, she was celebrating two years in recovery. She had not held a job in twenty years due to her addiction, and she had lost her driver's license eight years prior. Thanks to your gift to the York County Impact Fund, Lacy participated in activities, discussions, and self-discovery. She realized she had a chance to "get ahead" in the future. 

Lacy's coach made a referral to a Workforce Development Program that helped her establish a professional resume, work through mock interviews, and help to resolve open, but very old, criminal charges that were supposed to be closed. Through many conversations with her coach, Lacy discovered that her additions masked traumas that went unresolved for years. She was concerned that if she would begin school or employment, she would not have the coping skills necessary to sustain either. Lacy found a trauma therapist and over the next year through therapy, Self-Sufficiency Program, and other recovery supports, Lacy was ready to begin exploring her career path. 

Now four years into her recovery, Lacy decided to help those struggling with their addictions by becoming a Certified Recovery Specialist. She was enrolled at Penn State-York when COVID-19 suddenly shut everything down. This halted Lacy's plans immediately.

Because you give, a York County Impact Fund program was able to financially support Lucy to pay fees associated with filing a reinstatement for her license. Lucy successfully got her license back, allowing her to explore other options to attain her certification as a recovery specialist. Lacy found a local program was offering the course required to take the certification exam. Again, through your financial assistance, Lacy began the course and successfully completed it. She passed her state board exam shortly after. 

Lacy is now a full-time employee at a local recovery center making a wage that makes her financially stable. Lacy's new goal is building her credit so she can purchase a home. Lacy feels the education she was provided has opened up many doors for her and wants the opportunity to provide the same experience to those struggling.

Your gift made it possible for Lacy to change her life.