CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Over 500 people have now graduated from Jobs & Hope West Virginia.
The program’s 500th and 501st graduates were recognized Wednesday, Sierra Mullins and Joshua Shane McCoy. Gov. Jim Justice and members of Jobs & Hope WV congratulated Mullins and McCoy during a ceremony at the State Capitol.
“It all began with a dream I had for a better life for West Virginians grappling with addiction,” Gov. Justice said. “Now, Jobs & Hopes has shattered so many records it’s unbelievable.”
What started as “Jim’s Dream” in 2019, Gov. Justice wanted to help those struggling with addiction to overcome their challenges and secure employment in the state of West Virginia. Jobs & Hope WV was then launched in October 2019 as a comprehensive program to assist those fighting substance use disorder. Those in the program can go through career training that ultimately leads to a job.
There have been 508 total graduates of the Jobs & Hope program with 1,619 active participants and 5,293 employed participants.
Both Mullins and McCoy started their journey with Jobs & Hope WV in 2021. Mullins began her path in January 2021 and eventually found employment at Peer Solutions. She shared part of her experience and how Jobs & Hope changed her life for the better. Mullins first heard about Jobs & Hope through the Harmony Ridge Treatment Center.
“A lifeline promising a path to a brighter future,” Mullins said. “I have embarked on a journey of self-recovery and growth.”
Joshua’s journey with Jobs & Hope WV began in March 2021. He’s now employed as a Heavy Equipment Operator with Orders Construction. McCoy has stumped his addiction and has found success in his new career. He thanked everyone from the program, Recovery Point and his colleagues.
“I couldn’t have done any of this without Jobs & Hope,” he said. “I want to thank my family because I’m actually able to be there for them today and that means more to me than anything in the world.”
Gov. Justice called Mullins and McCoy “heroes” for the challenges that they have overcome.
“You got to keep on being heroes because it’s not going to be easy,” he said. “We’ll always have setbacks but we see lives changing.”
Jobs & Hope West Virginia has 23 transition agents positioned across the state that help in peer recovery services, regional support networks, workforce development, vocational training, and higher education opportunities.
Jobs & Hope has also helped 1,811 people attain their drivers license. 1,326 other individuals are no longer on SNAP benefits.
Those interested in signing up for the Jobs & Hope WV program can find more information at jobsandhope.wv.gov.