Karen Edwards

On her way out of an abusive marriage, Karen found PCK through a friend in a domestic violence support group.  Karen had worked previously in food service and the health field but circumstances and past mistakes left her unemployed.  She loved to cook; it was her hobby to host events that she would cater and volunteer to cook at local shelters.  Karen needed an opportunity to help her become financially independent to support her four children.

Karen enrolled in December of 2005 with great enthusiasm and the belief that she would get her start towards independence.  Though Karen was a committed and talented trainee, court proceedings made attendance and focus difficult for Karen.  Additionally, challenges with her children and her damaged self-worth were also formidable distractions.  She had to to trust her gifts in food preparation, and allow the program to be her support.  Karen also learned how and when to let go of circumstances blocking her success.  She decided to prioritize herself for a change, set limits in her home and take control.

In a class where 88% of the students graduated, Karen had earned her way through the 14-week program, received her ServSafe Certificate and made herself proud on February 28, 2006.  Three weeks following the program, Karen was hired at a health care facility. However, due to some unfinished business with a criminal case, she was not eligible to continue her employment.  Despite the brief setback, Karen ambitiously followed through with an opportunity with Weavers Way Co-op less than a week later.  She was hired at a little lower than the previous position, but was able to work full-time hours with health benefits.  Although, PCK doesn’t recommend students taking employment offers lower than $9.00 per hour, Karen had a good feeling about the company and loved the education she was receiving about the organic and gourmet foods the Co-op prepared and sold.

Karen has since reported great success with Weavers Way, including two pay increases in her first 6 months taking her hourly wage to $11.50 and a third company-wide increase three months later resulting in $14.60.  Karen has attended two company-sponsored food shows in New York, and a Vegan convention in Baltimore.  She was able to relinquish her public assistance with the medical plan and increased pay that her position provided.  Karen has boosted her food service skills exponentially and plans to incorporate the new foods she has been exposed to in her developing bed and breakfast.  Karen has recently purchased a new car, and will be closing on a 7 room house in September 2007 to make that business dream a reality.  She is more secure in herself than ever, and has a renewed sense of self-worth.  “I now have the confidence to go after what I want…And know I will do well.”

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