CADCOM
Therese Anderson

Therese Anderson faced overwhelming obstacles the minute she stepped foot in Norristown.

A single parent, Therese had no home and no job. She had recently moved to the area from Florida and her options were limited. During a stay at an emergency shelter with her daughter, Therese heard about an agency that offered a variety of services to people in her situation.

She walked through the door at the Montgomery County Community Action Development Commission (CADCOM), not really sure of what to expect. She left full of determination and hope.

Therese had spoken with a case manager about the service and programs CADCOM had to offer. That conversation empowered her, making her realize the agency’s programs – along with self discipline and effort – would give her the tools she needed to make a better life for herself and her daughter.

Therese enrolled in the supported Work Program (SWP) and increased her computer skills as well as gained job readiness and interviewing techniques. Her goal was to find a full-time job and a place to live.

With the support of her SWP instructor/case manager, Therese is now a full-time employee of Citizens Bank and was recently promoted to head teller of her branch. She and her daughter also have a place to call home.

In one year, Therese increased from 0 percent to 180 percent above poverty, according to the federal poverty guidelines. She credits CADCOM’s staff and programs for her success.

“CADCOM helped me do things I though were impossible,” Therese said. “I was always motivated, but they gave me the support I needed. I thank and appreciate CADCOM’s staff for everything they have done for me and my daughter.”

At many times during the past year, the 29-year-old’s journey toward self sufficiency seemed overwhelming. But with the support of her case manager and CADCOM programs such as Food Resources and Weatherization, Therese remained determined and motivated.

And at other times, the Norristown community and CADCOM showed her exactly why the battle was worth her fight. At Christmas 2003, Therese was adopted by a local business. Through their partnership with CADCOM and generous donations Theresa was able to provide her daughter , now 2, with a Christmas to remember.

Through her times of struggle, Therese has always remained hopeful and resolute. CADCOM is proud of the accomplishments Therese has achieved. She is a shining example of an individual whose hard work has been rewarded by self-sufficiency.

The Montgomery County Community Action Development Commission supports low-income population of Montgomery County, providing them with the training and assistance needed to become self-sufficient.