Journey to Self-Sufficiency

Rural Opportunities Inc.

Charles Sadru London

When a horrific act at the hands of his father ended his mother's life, a young Charles Sadru London showed the world he was made of the right stuff. With love and nurturing from an aunt and uncle, Charles grew strong spiritually, mentally and physically. At a young age he married and had three sons. The marriage ended in separation, and because of limited opportunities, Charles and his children went to reside with his grandmother -- a woman in failing health.  

In order to care for the children and his grandmother during the day, Charles obtained night employment at a local hotel. The job did not provide Charles with a livable wage and he often found that he owed more than he earned. Left with no alternative, Charles went to the Dauphin County Assistance Office in search of supportive services for his family.

In January 2004, the County Assistance Office referred him to the Supported Work Program (SWP) of Rural Opportunities, Inc. (ROI), a move that would prove to be a life-changing event. Through the assessment process, Charles and ROI's SWP staff was able to identify barriers that hindered his rise to self-sufficiency. He actively participated in implementing a plan with realistic goals that targeted financial support, affordable housing, education and employment and transportation services.

His training and employment coordinators at ROI, Carolyn Steele and Jeannette Roman, helped Charles maximize his independence through case management, literacy, job readiness and the job search. The County Assistance Office also provided supportive services and special allowances needed for Charles' job search through its RESET program. Sensing that he was on the path to success, Charles obtained a driver's license and, ultimately, a much-needed vehicle for transportation. In addition, Charles qualified for a clothing allowance to purchase and maintain a professional wardrobe during and after his job search. The staff at ROI identified and matched Charles' skills and abilities with a billing group that projected job growth. In April, Charles obtained employment with the billing company, a position which offered daytime hours, medical benefits and a livable wage. Charles qualified for extended medical benefits until his family was put on his company's plan and for a referral to access expedited subsidized childcare so he could maintain his employment.

A former case manager for Delta Housing Incorporated further assisted Charles by providing educational programs and intensive case management that focused on life skills, attitudes and personal responsibility. With the assistance from Delta Housing and their Family Unification Program, Charles was able to transition to permanent housing through the Department of Housing and Urban Development Voucher Program.

Rural Opportunities, Inc. is committed to improving the quality of life for economically disenfranchised individuals through quality programs and services.