Robert is an Adult participant from the Greater Flint Health Coalition’s Flint Healthcare Employment Opportunities (FHEO) program, a GST Michigan Works! service provider. A year ago, Robert was working as an Activity Aid at a residential

nursing facility. Robert has always had a caring nature and wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. It was while working at the nursing facility that Robert knew healthcare was the field he was intended to work in. Robert didn’t know how he was going to achieve this goal, so he started calling around and reached GST Michigan Works! who then referred him to the FHEO program.

Upon reaching out to FHEO and going through a screening and onboarding process, Robert was paired with a Career Advisor from the FHEO program. Robert said his Career Advisor has been amazing and there every step of the way to answer any questions and ensure success. Robert completed Life Skills and Healthcare Career Exploration Training hosted by Flint Strive. Robert shared that Flint Strive gave him the opportunity to complete an exhaustive job exploration and enhanced information sessions on a variety of healthcare fields and the certification requirements for each. Robert stated, “After careful consideration, I choose to be a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA). The confidence I gained through being able to attend and graduate Flint Strive is priceless. Not only was I able to gain the knowledge I needed to make an

informed decision, but I gained so much more.” He shared that his biggest takeaways from the experience were to always remain professional and do your research.

Once graduated from the Flint Strive program, Robert began the CNA training at Charter Healthcare Training Center. The FHEO program covered the cost of this training including textbooks, uniform, and certification exam. Robert shared that his instructor was knowledgeable and helpful and that the entire staff at Charter Healthcare Training prepared the classroom to pass the certification exam.

While completing clinical rotations Robert had the opportunity to see firsthand what the day and life is like as a CNA. He had the opportunity to see firsthand what a day in the life is like and ask questions while observing and practicing what he had been taught. This experience led Robert to his first job as a CNA. Robert is currently employed with Willowbrook Manor. Robert said, “The residents are the reason I do this job. It’s at times challenging and can be very stressful, the rewards outweigh it all.”

Robert shared, “The FHEO program has been a game changer for me. Through my initial contact with them my life has taken on a whole new meaning. I have a completely different skill set and hopeful outlook on my professional career. With the help of FHEO and the partnership with Flint Strive I know that my future looks bright. Thank you.”