When Elaine Bryant-Donigan moved to the Triangle from New York City, she wanted to establish herself in her new city as quickly as possible. Relocating is a tall task, and doing so with a family in tow is even more challenging. Elaine’s first course of action was to gain employment, which proved to be more difficult than she had anticipated. She remembers thinking: “Why am I not successful in finding work? Why am I not nailing my interviews?” Struggling to find a job will eat away at your self-confidence, and in a brand-new city, it made Elaine feel alone. She began seeking resources to build her resume, practice interviewing, and provide a support system. That’s when she found StepUp Ministry.
Elaine initially sought to brush up her interview skills, but she gained so much more at StepUp. At the Employment Training Workshop, she found a group that rallied around her. After “wandering around for so long,” Elaine found a place that embraced her family and made her feel like she was no longer by herself.
After finding a job, Elaine moved on to Life Skills, where the staff created an encouraging environment for all participants. Life Skills was a “safe place to stretch, fall, and get back up [again].” Her daughter participated in the Children’s Program, which helped her continue to adjust after the move. Both mother and daughter found solace in the community at StepUp. Elaine says they shared their feelings and “found their wings,” and continued to work towards stability and success in their new home.
Elaine was eager to give back to the organization that had helped her family so much and set her sights on going to work for StepUp. She wanted to support women whose situations were similar to hers. Angela Coleman, the current Director of Adult Programs, recognized Elaine’s desire to give back and brought her on as StepUp’s Intake Coordinator. The role allowed her to inspire others and give them hope as the turned to StepUp for support. Elaine worked diligently and was soon promoted to an Employment Counselor. She continued to share her story to encourage others, saying, “If I can make it, you can make it, too.”
Elaine now works as an Adult Programs Case Manager and supports participants through the job search and Life Skills. She is proud to help participants connect the dots through the two-step process. “I connect what is not being said and say, ‘we can help you with that,’” Elaine explains. She makes sure no one feels alone as they navigate through StepUp’s programs. “StepUp Ministry is one of the best-kept secrets in Raleigh,” Elaine says. “It’s so much more than just employment. You have to experience it for yourself.”