When Teresa Potts (61) learned about PA Women Work, she was living in a homeless shelter and searching for a path forward. She had experienced a series of setbacks, but was looking for support to achieve stability.
“I needed consistent work, so I could get back on my feet,” Teresa recalled.
Teresa connected with Kristen Tsapis, a PA Women Work career coach, who met with her to understand her situation and see how the organization could support. “Kristen was super available and really wanted to make things happen for me,” Teresa said. “She made me feel comfortable, heard, and helped me overcome the computer learning curve.”
Together, they identified a role in housekeeping at Allegheny General Hospital (AGH) that fit Teresa’s goal of working in a more patient-facing role. Once accepted into their paid training program, PA Women Work provided scrubs and supplies so Teresa could start with confidence.
After completing her training, Teresa started as a floater and quickly advanced to a patient advocate position — a role that allows her to connect with patients and help them feel safe.
“In just a few months, my income increased by several dollars an hour,” she shared. “I wouldn’t have this job at AGH without PA Women Work.”
After a nine-month stay in a shelter, Teresa was able to move into her own apartment and is grateful for her fresh start. “PA Women Work helped me rebuild my life,” Teresa said.
Thank you to WOMEN of Southwestern PA and The Avon Club Foundation who provide money for direct client support so that we can supply job-seekers with clothing, bus passes and other work essentials to facilitate their transition into a new job.