Seventeen-year-old Justine, a high school senior from Lebanon, Missouri, once faced the same obstacle many young people encounter—finding a job without prior work experience. But thanks to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth Work Experience Program and the guidance of a caring school counselor, Justine’s story took a powerful turn.
In the fall of 2024, Justine found herself in a challenging season. Unable to stay with her father, she was temporarily living with a friend and searching for a way to support herself. Determined to change her circumstances, she turned to her school counselor for help. That conversation led her to the WIOA In-School Youth program and a life-changing opportunity.
Amanda Riley, WIOA Career Manager at the Lebanon Job Center, met Justine during a school visit in October 2024. Amanda immediately saw something special in her. “She was polite, kind, and responsive,” Amanda recalled. “You could see how determined she was to grow and improve her situation.”
Justine enrolled in the WIOA Youth Program under the Career Opportunity Training for Youth (C.O.T.Y.) grant and began a work experience placement at The Lunch Box in November 2024 as a Cashier/Host. By March 29, 2025, she had not only completed her placement but also earned a job offer. Her employer was thrilled with her performance, praising her for mastering multiple roles, including cashier, server, and kitchen help.
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Justine expressed how much she enjoyed learning every aspect of the business and how each position helped her understand teamwork on a deeper level. “I liked seeing how what I did made a difference for the whole team,” she said.
Through her hard work, Justine was able to reach personal milestones that once felt out of reach. With her paycheck, she purchased her graduation gown and invitations and excitedly attended prom. She graduated this past spring with an impressive 3.9 GPA and dreams of becoming a flight attendant.
Even more meaningful, Justine has been able to return home to her family and recently helped her younger brother get a new mattress, a gesture that symbolizes how far she’s come.
Way to go, Justine!