In 1996, Connie Friets moved to Michigan from Colorado in search of a better life for her family. She was divorced, raising two kids without child support, unemployed and suffering from back problems. Her medical condition eventually led to surgery and resulted in her no longer being able to work as a house painter.
To help provide for her family this single mother of two turned to the Family Independence Agency (FIA) for assistance. Through the Delta County FIA she received Family Independence Program (FIP) benefits, Medicaid, child day care and food assistance.
Connie did not want assistance to become a legacy for her children. She was determined to do whatever was necessary to increase her employability and gain self-sufficiency. Through the local Work First provider, Michigan Works! The Job Force and PROSERV, a temporary agency, Connie found a part-time job at the Michigan Center for Truck Safety.
In 1999, Connie began attending Northern Michigan University to pursue a bachelor of social work degree. To support her efforts, Michigan Works! The Job Force provided funds for textbooks and assisted with car repairs. In addition, Michigan Rehabilitation Services helped her purchase additional textbooks, car insurance and a word processor. They also assisted her with refining her resume and developing a structured job.
For several years, Connie maintained a high grade point average while balancing employment, classes and child care. She graduated from NMU with honors in 2001 with a bachelor of social work degree.
Unfortunately, after completing her degree she was laid off from the Michigan Center for Truck Safety. Despite this set back she refused to become discouraged and immediately began looking for new employment. She quickly got a temporary job through PROSERV at the Bay de Noc Community College bookstore. Connie continued to look for work, even applying for a number of positions at human services agencies in the community.
After several months of job searching Connie came across an ad in the local paper for a legal secretary position at the law offices of Viau, Chapekis and Economopoulos. She applied for the job, interviewed and was hired. She is still employed there today.
In September 2001, Connie’s FIP case closed due to her earnings. She continues to receive transitional Medicaid and food assistance benefits.
On June 21, 2002, Connie Friets of Escanaba was the proud recipient of the June Achiever of the Month Award.
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In 1996, Connie Friets moved to Michigan from Colorado in search of a better life for her family. She was divorced, raising two kids without child support, unemployed and suffering from back problems. Her medical condition eventually led to surgery and resulted in her no longer being able to work as a house painter.
