Profiles of Change
Every day at Rubicon, we are inspired by the courage, commitment and resilience of the men, women and families who partner with us on their journeys of change. Change is a process of growth and transformation. We are thankful for Edward, Athea and Renee, who have shared their personal journey of change with us and with you.
EDWARD
With a criminal history record, Edward knew it wasn’t going to be easy to find a job. Motivated to get his life on track, Edward turned to Rubicon. Rubicon worked closely with a Career Coach in Richmond, who helped him develop a resume, explore job leads, and linked him to Rubicon’s Training Program, so he could earn money and build his resume while he was looking for work.
In order to get to work, Edward walked, as he was no longer driving due to a suspended driver’s license. When he crossed the railroad tracks, Edward received a citation. Because he was on probation, this led to his re-arrest. Rubicon’s Legal Services team helped to clear the violation from his record, and helped him clear over $2,000 in parking tickets owed to the City. With the help and guidance of Rubicon’s workforce and legal services staff, Edward remains employed and eager to continuing to build a financial secure future for himself and his daughter.
ATHEA
Athea came to Rubicon Programs in 2008 after struggling with substance abuse, and losing her job as an Accounting Clerk. Athea discovered Rubicon and stopped by the Richmond Economic Empowerment site in hopes of dusting off her resume and finding a stable job and more permanent housing.
Athea worked with a Rubicon Career Coach, who helped her craft her resume and follow up job leads matching her skill set. Within several weeks, she was hired at a local business in Richmond, where she remains employed and was recently promoted. Athea also enrolled in our housing and financial stability programs to ensure her family maintains comfortable housing and that she continues to build her savings nest for the future.
RENEE
When you meet Renee, it’s difficult to imagine that she once felt like an animal – aloof and lost, sleeping wherever she could, and knocking on doors to find a bathroom. A history of substance abuse and homelessness took a toll on her mental stability.
Renee now finds comfort and recovery through her involvement in Rubicon’s Day Treatment Program, where she has since developed a personal plan, participates in crafts and builds a healthy and productive lifestyle.
Renee no longer roams the streets – she lives in a comfortable Rubicon apartment in Concord, which she shares with her daughter and precious granddaughter.
Renee shows off her colorful array of handmade scarves, a new hobby she pursues with passion. And, it’s a skill she now uses to give back to the community -- Renee donates these scarves to local homeless shelters.