When people are facing instability — whether related to housing, income, or family safety — completing workforce training and transitioning into employment can feel out of reach. That’s why coordinated investments that address both economic security and career pathways are critical to workforce success. This video, produced by YWCA, highlights Candice’s journey from housing instability to a career in banking. During a period of crisis, Candice was connected to YWCA’s domestic violence and housing programs, which provided immediate safety and stability. That foundation allowed her to focus on the next step: building a sustainable career.

Every quarter, workforce programs across our region support people who are navigating career changes, training, and the search for stable employment through the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Below are three recent participant stories that offer a snapshot of that work. We’ve lightly edited them for clarity and length, but otherwise share them as they were reported, highlighting real moments of progress, transition, and next steps. (Stock photos are used to protect participant privacy.)

Gabe was “in a tough spot,” according to case managers with King County Community and Human Services: Children, Youth and Young Adults Division. After becoming paralyzed from gun violence, he was at a crossroads: continue down the same path of destruction or transform his life for the better.

Leilah survived domestic gun violence and fled to Seattle, where she sought refuge with YWCA and enrolled in domestic violence (DV) services, and later the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). After getting urgently needed safety services, Leilah worked with her career navigator and DV advocate to review her strengths, background, employment history, and career goals, and came up with a plan to achieve them. She also created a safety plan, received mental health support, and joined a survivor’s support group.