Celena Beasley, an Atlanta Housing Authority Catalyst participant, has shown just how well the program can work if you diligently apply yourself. Ms Beasley, of Astor Avenue, was accustomed to having employment but the economy affected her as it has so many. Her last position as a Medical Records Technician with Peachtree Orthopaedic Clinic had ended in a layoff in 2009.

Housing Choice/Section 8 eligibility requires that recipients maintain employment of 30 hours or more, have a documented disability and/or be involved in an approved training program. Ms Beasley entered the Catalyst program within the Atlanta Workforce Development Agency in November of 2009. This program is a Job Readiness program that assists participants to receive or update their employment skills for enhancement of their job search efforts. Participants receive training in interviewing skills, job search methods, a course in basic computer skills and resume assistance to name a few elements.

Ms Beasley entered the program with diligence, cheerfulness and a cooperative spirit. Her leadership abilities were evident from the beginning and she was well-liked by her peers.  She successfully completed the four (4) week Catalyst program and was selected to participate in an Energy Audit pilot program that began in March 2010. Again, Ms Beasley showed her ability to adapt and to always have a “cool head” in all situations. This program allowed Ms Beasley to interact with the general public by advising of energy-saving methods to lower their bills as well as potentially” save the earth.”  This was another great effort by Ms Beasley.

President Obama’s stimulus funding assisted many GA citizens to further their skills and work experiences in various programmatic areas. One of these was the Character Competency Pilot Program that began in May, 2010 and ended in September 2010. Because of Ms Beasley’s exemplary performance in every program she has entered, she was again selected participant. In this program, Ms Beasley was a Consultant to youth in character – building, ethics, dress codes and job skills.  This involvement led to Ms Beasley completing the remaining timeframe by assisting the Code Compliance office with their administrative needs.  She again excelled and is now hired as an Administrative Assistant, City of Atlanta Offices of Code Compliance.  Ms Celena Beasley has made us all very proud!!


-- Thomasene Roberts