I had been out of the workforce for quite a while when I began the Deseret Industries training program. I really needed help getting used to the idea of working again. I also needed job training so that I could find full-time employment different from what I had done in the past. I wanted to do something more. I have a wide range of interests, so I was willing to try anything, but I needed the confidence to do so.

My first few weeks of training were a struggle. I began as a clothing sorter and tired easily. It was hard to complete my full shift. As time passed, I began to get a little more sure of myself, and able to do more as I became more acclimated to being back at work. Soon I found myself asking to fill in for other associates who were absent, and I got better and better at what I was doing. As my confidence grew, I even began offering suggestions. This was far different from when I first arrived. At first, I didn’t say much.

About halfway through the training program, I found myself living alone without my husband. This was a challenging time; however, with help from the staff at DI, I learned how to do the things he had been taking care of. I found this challenge had turned into a blessing because I was forced to learn how to do many new things.

At the end of my training, I began interviewing for a new job. I found a good job working in the deli department of a large supermarket. I am grateful for my experience at Deseret Industries because I now have the confidence that I am doing a great job.