Not The Person I Was
Antonio’s Story
Antonio came to Love Columbia seeking rent assistance after being laid off a construction job. Since that first connection, he has participated in career and credit building coaching and completed Good Dads parenting and healthy relationships courses. He secured temporary employment and is in the hiring process with City of Columbia, after connecting with them at our job fair.
“I called for help with rent, and the person asked me if I’d also be interested in any career coaching," Antonio said. "I’m happy I wasn’t close minded and only wanting financial support because a rent check would have just been for one month. I would have missed out on all the amazing programs and friendships here, much more valuable than one month of rent. I always tell people, if they are in trouble they need to check out Love Columbia. They’ve become like my extended family. They did help me out with rent, but after I got my job, I was able to sustain myself.”
Antonio praised the benefits of career coaching where he received help with job applications, creating a resume, and practice interviewing. He also received help navigating a difficult work situation. “It’s all about your drive," Antonio said. "If they see you are willing to try, they’ll help you. It’s just unlike anything I ever experienced.”
Antonio also gained hope through credit building and pre-homeownership coaching. “I always thought it would be too much, but I realized it’s feasible," Antonio said. "I just have to work at it.”
Beyond the practical skills and tips Antonio learned, he said he experienced tremendous personal growth and found community through Love Columbia. “When I first came here, I can say that I know I wasn’t the person that I am now, as far as perspective or growth," Antonio said. "I came here not knowing which direction to go because I don’t have support people here in town. Love Columbia has made living in Columbia a hundred times better. I really feel like I’ve got some community, people that I can count on no matter how hard things get. That’s major for me. It saves you from feeling hopeless. I’m trying not to get too emotional about it, but I believe they really care about me and my kids and that means a lot. Hopefully, I'll make it big one day and I can help Love Columbia."
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