Making a Better Life

Commission on Economic Opportunity (CEO) of Luzerne County

Urszula and Wojciech Kalinowski

Urszula and Wojciech Kalinowski emigrated from their native Poland to the United States in pursuit of a better life for themselves and their two young children. They immediately began looking for work, intent on obtaining the American dream. However, the couple quickly realized that they had a number of obstacles to overcome. Their biggest barriers to securing employment were language, limited knowledge of the local labor market and acceptance of their graduate credits from educational institutions in Poland.   They had visited several agencies for employment assistance with no success, but remained focused and determined to become self-sufficient.      

Two months after coming to the United States, Urszula and Wojciech went to the Luzerne County Assistance Office in search of help. There the couple inquired about enrolling in an employment and training program and were referred to the Commission on Economic Opportunity (CEO) of Luzerne County. The Community Action Agency's Supported Work Program (SWP) was just what the couple was looking for.

Once enrolled in the SWP, Urszula and Wojciech took full advantage of the services the CEO offered, including allowances for food, clothing and household items. The couple participated in computer skills training as well as language proficiency and life skills workshops. They received help updating their resumes and secured their driver's licenses. Urszula also received a special allowance for eyeglasses.

"Community Action helped us when no one else would," said Urszula and Wojciech. "[They] did not treat us like strangers because we were immigrants, but rather, were very kind to us. We knew if we ever needed anything, we could come to [CEO]."

Within a few months, the couple secured full-time employment. Urszula holds a position as an office assistant. Her hard work and determination resulted in multiple raises within a short period of time. Wojciech enlisted in the United States Army National Guard, finished his training and secured full-time employment in a warehouse.

The couple could not be happier. "Words cannot describe our gratitude to Community Action. Because of its help and support, we not only secured employment, but also became self-sufficient in America," they say. Their dream had come true.

Larry Melf, case manager at CEO, is not surprised by the family's successes. Says Melf, "When we think of helping people and changing lives, we think of how Urszula and Wojciech defied odds and achieved self-sufficiency, not just individually but also as a family."

Commission on Economic Opportunity of Luzerne County provides programs and services to low-income residents of Luzerne County as they seek help in moving to independence.