It takes a community to lift someone out of poverty.
 

On Wednesday, Feb. 25, Lorenza (right) and John (left), residents at Ozanam Inn Men’s Emergency Shelter, were a part of the graduating class from Goodwill Kentucky’s RISE Program (Reintegrating Individuals Successfully Every Day) at its Downtown Louisville Opportunity Center.
 

“We couldn’t be more proud of Lorenza and John,” said Rena Sharpe, Chief Operating Officer at Goodwill Kentucky. “By working with our community partners, like the folks at St. Vincent de Paul, we create stability and opportunity for the people we serve.”
 

RISE is a two-month job-readiness training program designed to empower individuals who have multiple barriers to obtain gainful employment.
 

“RISE showed me what I want to do, which is to become a peer support counselor,” John said.
 

“When I started taking classes at Goodwill, I started feeling a little bit better about myself. I was like, ‘Man, I can really be the person I want to be,’” Lorenza added.
 

At 62 years old, Lorenza worked for the past four decades, including as a supervisor of a manufacturing plant. After experiencing homelessness for several years, Lorenza came to Ozanam Inn last fall.
 

“St. Vincent allows you the opportunity to grow,” Lorenza said. “When I came here, that’s when I started going to Goodwill because I had a foundation. I could get some rest, you don’t have to carry your clothes or bags everywhere you go, and you could take a nice, hot shower.”
 

“You will often hear Lorenza say, ‘If you want something, then you have to get up and do it,’” added Evelyn Peeler, Ozanam Inn Case Manager. “The best part of the referral is watching them blossom as they become successful.”
 

John’s Journey
 

Two months ago, John’s life looked very different. He worked as a forklift operator at a reputable company, rented a home, and enjoyed playing with his two-year-old son.
 

“I’m always used to having my own place with my kid and girlfriend. When I became homeless, I didn’t know what to do or where to go,” John said.
 

Everything changed when he lost his job.
 

“I lost everything that we owned. I lost my car, all my furniture, and TVs,” John added. “The only thing I have now is the clothes on my back and those under my bed.”
 

At 46 years old, John initially struggled with suicidal thoughts. The light at the end of the tunnel is reuniting with his loved ones. John has utilized our community kitchen, SVDP Drop-In Center, and case management, including help with record expungement.
 

“St. Vincent de Paul has been helpful because I can come and go as I please,” he said. “To go to Goodwill, I couldn’t do that at the previous shelter I was staying at. It’s been a nice place to be.”
 

Next Steps
 

On March 2, Lorenza and John were hired as full-time sorters at local Goodwill Donation Centers.
 

“Your support is really helping,” Lorenza said. “Everybody plays a little part in it. You’re helping somebody change their life when you donate your money or time.”
 

“I don’t have any family. My mom and dad both passed away,” John added. “Goodwill and St. Vincent have helped me through it … they will always be a part of my family.”