The August 2001 Achiever of the Month Award was presented to Melissa Guggemos of Lansing. Ms. Guggemos is the single mother of two children. She first turned to the Family Independence Agency (FIA) for help in 1992. At that time, she had just moved to Michigan in search of a better life for her children and was trying to get established. Because of her rheumatoid arthritis she had difficulty obtaining employment and needed help providing for her family. Through the Ingham County FIA, Melissa received Aid for Dependent Children, now known as Family Independence Program benefits, food stamps and Medicaid.
Melissa, a high school graduate, finally found employment as a medical assistant with Lansing Management. She worked there for 18 months, but when her position was restructured, she was let go because she did not have the training and education to perform the duties of the new position.
Illness and a lack of job skills made it difficult for Melissa to find other employment. Although she was encouraged by one of her doctor's to apply for Supplemental Security Income benefits rather than go to work, she refused because she was determined to support her family.
In 1998, Melissa was referred to Work First. With the help of her Work First provider, Capital Area Michigan Works!, she secured a part-time job with the Capital Area Community Services (CACS) Head Start as a parent intern. In addition, Work First sent her to computer training through Career Quest. Attending the classes helped Melissa obtain a full-time position with CACS Head Start. Later, she was promoted to a full-time position with the CACS Action Center as a clerk/receptionist. She continues to work there today.
Melissa's hard work has paid off. In July 2000, her Family Independence Program case closed due to earnings. She continues to receive food stamp benefits, day care and transitional Medicaid. Currently, Melissa is taking social work classes at Lansing Community College. In the future she hopes to transfer to Michigan State University where she plans to major in social work.
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The August 2001 Achiever of the Month Award was presented to Melissa Guggemos of Lansing. Ms. Guggemos is the single mother of two children. She first turned to the Family Independence Agency (FIA) for help in 1992. At that time, she had just moved to Michigan in search of a better life for her children and was trying to get established. Because of her rheumatoid arthritis she had difficulty obtaining employment and needed help providing for her family. Through the Ingham County FIA, Melissa received Aid for Dependent Children, now known as Family Independence Program benefits, food stamps and Medicaid.
