Dominic Namauu’s Success Story
In February 2022, Dominic Namauu’s life took a hopeful turn when he was referred to our agency by the Resource Director at Clay County High School. Dominic was facing a myriad of challenges – homelessness, lack of necessities, and barriers to education. His situation was dire, as he was living in a dilapidated camper with no electricity or water, having aged out of foster care. However, Dominic’s story is one of remarkable transformations, made possible by the dedication and support of our team at Daniel Boone Community Action Agency.
Dominic’s first encounter with our Homeless Case Manager, Chasity Kemp, proved to be a pivotal moment. Recognizing the urgency of his situation, Chasity swiftly assessed Dominic’s eligibility for assistance through the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG). With unwavering determination, Chasity navigated the complex process of getting Dominic enrolled in the homeless data system, paving the way for him to access the support he desperately needed.
Dominic’s journey towards stability and success continued at an impressive pace. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of our team, Dominic was quickly housed in a suitable rental property within a week. He received a bed and essential household items through a Goodwill voucher, while the School Resource Center provided crucial furnishings. Recognizing his need for sustenance, Dominic was guided through the process of signing up for SNAP benefits, ensuring he had access to nutritious food.
Dominic’s pursuit of education emerged as another significant challenge. Chasity, armed with her experience in assisting homeless individuals, recognized the obstacles he faced in achieving academic success. When it became apparent that Dominic could graduate by attending summer school, she coordinated transportation for him through the Daniel Boone Transit. This support enabled Dominic to complete the necessary credits and graduate high school, marking a significant milestone in his journey.
With his high school diploma in hand, Dominic was eager to embark on the path of employment. Our team facilitated his entry into the Workforce Investment Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth Program, setting the stage for him to develop valuable skills through an internship. Overcoming transportation barriers, Dominic excelled as a Stock Clerk at a local Sav-A-Lot. His dedication and work ethic were evident, leading to a permanent job offer from his employer.
Dominic’s determination to improve his circumstances continued to shine. He secured a higher-paying position at Wal-Mart, a testament to his growing self-sufficiency. The hurdles of transportation were not insurmountable for Dominic, as he worked diligently to obtain his driver’s license and eventually purchased his own car, granting him newfound independence.
A turning point arrived when Dominic received a referral for an Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV) through the Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC). This remarkable opportunity allowed him to transition from temporary rental assistance to a more sustainable ongoing rental assistance voucher, solidifying his path to long-term stability.
As we fast forward to the present day, Dominic’s journey is a testament to his unwavering determination and the unwavering support he received through Daniel Boone Community Action Agency. He continues to thrive, working diligently at Captain D’s and maintaining self-sufficiency with the assistance of the EHV voucher. Dominic’s success story stands as a shining example of how dedication, collaboration, and the power of community can transform lives and pave the way for a brighter future.