I had been out of work for more than a year and didn’t know how to make the necessary changes to gain employment. What I struggled with most was regaining my confidence. I needed to look past the obstacles from my past choices. It was my family who helped me to recognize what I could do to get back on my feet. My bishop listened to my concerns, and I was led to Deseret Industries.

I felt I was able to reach my potential while at DI through the programs they offered. I took a course in appliance repair, which added to my previous knowledge of electronics. This training gave me the confidence I lacked to search for a job doing what I enjoyed. Toward the end of my DI experience, I was placed in an advanced jobs search program where I spent my days focusing on obtaining full-time employment. About three weeks into this program, I was offered a business partnership with a local appliance repair company. My confidence grew to a level that I could only imagine. After a month, I was hired full-time.

Finding a job was my goal when I started at Deseret Industries, but I now see that getting a job is a side benefit to the other changes that have occurred in my life. The DI program has completely changed my outlook on life and given me direction for making internal changes. They helped me to shape my attitude toward working again, and helped me to realize that the only way my life was going to improve was through change. I learned to think beyond myself by lifting and encouraging others. I grew to realize that my family depended on me to provide and give stability to their lives. With the help of all of those at Deseret Industries, I have rediscovered my purpose—my family. 

The time I spent at Deseret Industries has been life changing and I will forever be grateful. Because of this experience, the gospel now has new meaning in my life. I can take everything to my Father in Heaven and I feel the influence of the Holy Ghost from the time I wake up in the morning until I go to bed at night. I read the scriptures each and every day, and they seem to come alive for me; I can’t wait until I have time to read more. I wish everyone could feel the way I do, and I want to share what I’ve found. I feel that there are no limits to what I can accomplish. I would recommend the DI to everyone. It is truly an inspired program.