From Roadblocks to Roadwork: Don’s Fresh Start

Two years ago, Don was looking for a fresh start.

After struggling with addiction and setbacks that disrupted his career, he moved from Joliet to Peoria in search of a second chance. With support from Pathway Ministries, he found stability and a renewed sense of purpose that led him to Illinois Central College.

“The main thing that brought me to ICC was the opportunity offered through the Workforce Equity Initiative,” Don says. “It allowed me to further my education and training without worrying about the cost of tuition and textbooks or falling behind on my bills.”

But it was the people at ICC who made him stay.

From day one, Don felt seen, supported, and challenged to grow. “I learned so much from each class and every instructor. Everyone was so patient, helpful, and always willing to guide me,” he says.

“The people at ICC truly care about your success and want to help you.”

Don, ICC Alumni

With newfound confidence and direction, Don enrolled in the Highway Construction and Truck Driver Training programs—two key steps toward his goal of earning a spot in the International Union of Operating Engineers’ Apprenticeship Program. The hands-on experience and career-focused training at ICC helped him check key boxes for the program-including earning his CDL license to operate heavy equipment.

Now, Don sees a future full of possibility. He’s considering additional training in carpentry or electrical maintenance—and he knows ICC will be there when he’s ready to take that next step. But most of all, he hopes to give back to the community that gave him a fresh start and proved that with the right support, transformation is possible.