Blessings!

Cashmere Bentley remembers first hearing about StepUp Durham from a close friend. At the time she was employed - but she loved what she heard and her friend’s enthusiasm for StepUp really stuck with her. Just a few months later Cashmere unexpectedly lost her job and endured several difficult months of unemployment. Facing the biggest employment gap she had ever had, as well as some rescinded job offers due to her background, she knew she needed help. That’s when Cashmere called her friend and enrolled in the Employment Workshop. “I knew StepUp would help me find employment regardless of my background and also give me the confidence needed in order to not only find but maintain employment.”

She did not have to wait long to find a job after going through the workshop. She was quickly offered part-time employment through StepUp’s build apprenticeship where she got to work closely with the StepUp team and serve in the community. “The apprenticeship was the most fulfilling job I’d ever had. Working around people who were so passionate about helping others and who truly loved what they were doing was a breath of fresh air.” Soon after the apprenticeship ended she was offered the role of Employment Counselor Contractor, which she currently holds today. Aside from finally having a job she loves, she was also thrilled to realize she would be able to go to school full-time to pursue her degree while employed. “It has been a major blessing.”

Finding housing had also always been a major struggle for Cashmere. After completing the first phase of Step2 she found out she was eligible for StepUp Durham’s Restorative Housing Program. In September she and her boyfriend moved into their new home and are so grateful to finally have stable, affordable housing. Through Step2 she is learning the importance of saving and has also been able to raise her credit score. “Step2 has also provided me with a community in which I’m surrounded by people who have been through the same struggles as I have and understand where I’m coming from. I look forward to attending each week.”

Looking back Cashmere realizes her employment and housing issues not only impacted her financially, but also took a toll on her emotionally. When she was without work she was stressed about falling behind on bills and constantly worried about making ends meet. Now, with stable employment and housing, she feels much more secure and happy. “I’m not 100% stress free, I’m in a way more stable and happy place than I was before.”