Local Woman Transforms Life Through SC Works

News Summary

Carly Barton, a Clearwater resident, has turned her life around with the help of the SC Works program, becoming a full-time medical assistant. After earning her GED and obtaining a CMA certification through the Greenwood Medical Academy, she now works at the Margaret J. Weston Clinic, inspiring others in the community to pursue their dreams. SC Works provides free services to job seekers, empowering them to secure employment despite challenges.

Local Woman Transforms Life Through SC Works, Becomes Full-Time Medical Assistant

In Clearwater, a heartwarming story is unfolding that’s inspiring many in the community. Carly Barton, a determined local woman, has turned her life around thanks to the SC Works program, finding herself in a fulfilling career as a medical assistant. This program has not only helped Carly secure her future but is also paving the way for others to do the same.

Carly’s journey wasn’t an easy one. After dropping out of high school, she faced the challenges of being a young mother. However, she didn’t let life’s obstacles hold her back. With immense determination, she returned to her studies and earned her GED. It was at her graduation that she crossed paths with a dedicated workforce development caseworker from Upper Savannah SC Works. This encounter opened the door to numerous training and employment opportunities that would change her life.

Within less than a year of connecting with SC Works, Carly obtained her Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification through the Greenwood Medical Academy. She is now proudly working full-time at the Rural Health Service’s Margaret J. Weston Clinic in Clearwater, providing essential healthcare support to the community.

Empowering Communities through Workforce Development

Upper Savannah Workforce Development serves job seekers across seven counties in South Carolina, including Abbeville, Edgefield, McCormick, Laurens, Saluda, Greenwood, and Newberry. The organization, led by the knowledgeable Workforce Development Director, focuses on helping individuals like Carly secure meaningful employment. They understand the local job market and collaborate closely with over 51% of private-sector employers to ensure that the skill sets being taught are relevant and in demand.

The organization also hosts monthly job fairs in each county to promote career opportunities. At a recent job fair held at Piedmont Technical College, 64 employers set up booths, scintillating the event with opportunities for 187 eager job seekers. These fairs not only connect potential employees with employers but also foster community spirit and support.

Free Services for Job Seekers

SC Works is committed to providing a variety of free services that aid job seekers in their quest for employment. These range from resume writing workshops to interview preparation sessions, ensuring individuals feel confident as they step into the job market. The target groups for these training programs include young adults aged 16 to 24, dislocated workers, and adults over 18, including individuals who may not have a high school diploma.

Funding for these programs is primarily provided through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which allocates an annual budget of $1.1 million to keep these vital services running. Despite challenges, including a significant 30.06% decrease in funding since 2014, SC Works continues to strive towards improving job opportunities and forming strengthened partnerships with employers.

Reaching Out to Rural Areas

To further assist those seeking employment in more remote areas, SC Works is rolling out a Virtual Engagement Center. This innovative initiative will provide much-needed digital access to job seekers living in rural locations, ensuring everyone has the tools they need to succeed.

Since July 2024, Workforce Development has proudly assisted over 10,377 people, registered 2,565 new job seekers, and offered 4,630 employment services, while supporting 1,498 employers. Carly hopes that her story will encourage other mothers and individuals facing challenges to recognize that with perseverance, anything is possible.

Looking to the future, Carly plans to further her education, aiming to become a Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse. With the support of programs like SC Works, she is embodying the spirit of hope and determination that so many in the Clearwater community seek to achieve.

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Additional Resources

• Index Journal: You Can Do Anything – Upper Savannah Workforce Program
• Wikipedia: Workforce Development
• Dignity Memorial: Wayne Gifford Obituary
• Google Search: Certified Medical Assistant
• Orlando Health: Mark Whitehead, PAC