Dakota was first referred to Easterseals VT’s Compass program last summer by his advisor at Vermont Adult Learning when he stopped taking classes to pursue his high school diploma. Compass is a prevention and stabilization program that serves at-risk youth in Rutland County in an effort to develop well-being, education, employment, stable living environments, and more. Faced with an unstable living situation and no employment or identification, Dakota needed extra support to achieve his goals. Since then, Dakota has been working with Easterseals VT Compass Coordinator Valerie.
“The first step involved helping Dakota obtain his birth certificate and an ID, which are essential for securing employment,” Valerie explained. With the help of grant funds, Easterseals VT covered the cost of Dakota getting both documents. From there, Valerie helped Dakota apply for jobs. Not long into the job search, Dakota secured an interview at Burger King. Valerie provided him with transportation to the interview, leading to Dakota landing the job and starting work the next day.
With a stable income, everything else began to fall into place. He could take his beloved cat, Thunder, to the vet and independently cover the bill. Dakota moved back in with his mother and paid for his own furnishings. “Easterseals VT has been nice and helpful to me while working towards my goals,” Dakota expressed. These days, Valerie is helping Dakota obtain health insurance and get back into classes at Vermont Adult Learning. Unfortunately, Dakota and his mother are facing eviction from their current residence; Valerie will assist him in finding a secure living arrangement next.
“Dakota has shown remarkable progress since we began working together. Sometimes, having someone to offer support and assistance can make all the difference,” Valerie shared. Although life presents challenges, Dakota’s future appears brighter and more stable with the help of Compass program’s support.