Brayden Garett’s Success Story

Bradyn, an 18-year-old pursuing a cosmetology certification at the Edge Academy of Beauty, came to DBCAA facing significant challenges. He was homeless and living in his car. He was uncertain about his future and struggling to secure stable housing and employment. Without a safe and stable foundation, Bradyn grew concerned about his ability to continue his education and had lost hope for a sustainable future.

Upon intake, DBCAA Emergency Services Case Manager Chasity Kemp promptly assessed Bradyn’s situation and implemented a comprehensive support plan. Through the ESG-CV Rapid Rehousing Program, Bradyn secured stable housing in less than two weeks, giving him an opportunity to focus on his education and employment goals.

Recognizing additional barriers, Chasity facilitated referrals to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Program, LIHEAP utility assistance services, and DBCAA’s Transit Program. Bradyn’s vehicle required repairs, so transportation assistance enabled him to maintain consistent attendance at school, a critical factor in his continued progress.

Bradyn was referred to the WIOA program for assistance with employment. WIOA helped him with a work experience placement to gain skills in a salon. He successfully completed the program and was hired. Bradyn spent a year following his work experience with WIOA. With 17 months of rental assistance provided through DBCAA’s ESG-CV Rapid Rehousing Program, he transitioned into permanent housing with continued support from the Kentucky Housing Corporation’s Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV) Program, ensuring long-term housing stability as he moved toward independence.

Bradyn worked as a cosmetologist for a year but continued to struggle financially. After several different jobs in the field, he realized he wasn’t happy. He began working at a nursing home and discovered a true passion for the healthcare field.

Bradyn returned to Daniel Boone and spoke to Career Advisor Selena Quillon about his passion for healthcare after his nursing home experience. He expressed strong interest in pursuing a CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) certification. Selena evaluated his situation, explained the WIOA program, and determined he was eligible for assistance since he was receiving public benefits.

After completing an assessment that confirmed his interest in healthcare, Selena reviewed local labor market information with him, which further solidified his decision. Bradyn chose to attend Choice MD to pursue his CMA certification. WIOA paid for his tuition and provided supportive services, including essential job-related items like scrubs and shoes.

Bradyn successfully completed his CMA training and passed the NHA exam on his first attempt. Selena then connected him with Advent Health Manchester for an internship as a CMA to gain practical experience. The facility was so impressed with Bradyn that they hired him before he even completed his internship.

He is now earning a self-sufficient wage of $20.41 per hour. He is doing great and is very happy.