C.E.F.S. Economic Opportunity Corporation recently showcased their 48th year of accomplishments demonstrating the fact that community action helps people and changes lives. During the 2013 annual meeting, two locals were recognized who had overcome obstacles in obtaining or maintaining self-sufficiency. According to C.E.F.S. Chief Executive Officer Paul White, “This past year our programs and services truly made a real difference in the lives of residents of the community.”

Martina Emrick had worked full time for 14 years for D.O.R.S. caring for a patient in their home as a personal assistant. When her patient passed away in January 2012, Emrick found her professional and caring skills needed certifications. Emrickcame to an orientation at the Illinois workNet Center in Mattoon where she learned that she could qualify for dislocated worker services and learned about tuition assistance and supportive services available to help her update her skills and become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). She immediately started the process of enrollment and had no doubt in her mind that she wanted training to become a CNA, as she loved her work. Emrick successfully completed her program in July 2012 at Lake Land College. The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Program supported her with tuition, mileage assistance, supportive services and supplies for class. Emrick is employed as a CNA at Mason Point in Sullivan for Petersen Health Care. She and her two children, David and Ciara, reside in Lovington.

Vicki Fifer, a grandmother, accepted the task of raising three of her grandchildren. With assistance from various programs through the C.E.F.S. Moultrie County Outreach office, Fifer has maintained a home for at least 10 years for her grandchildren while living on a limited income. Barbara Waymire, Moultrie County Outreach Coordinator, highlighted Fifer for recognition because she is raising her grandchildren on her limited income and is determined to give her grandchildren a stable and loving home. Fifer and her grandchildren Alexander, Adrian and Maryann reside in Sullivan.

C.E.F.S. Economic Opportunity Corporation has been providing comprehensive social services for limited income persons for more than 48 years.  For more information about the community action agency or program, contact the local C.E.F.S. Moultrie County Outreach Office at 217/728-7721, the local Illinois workNet Center at 217/235-2222, the C.E.F.S. central office at 217/342-2193 or visit the agency website at www.cefseoc.org.