In 2021, Rogena Smith found herself at a crossroads. Following a difficult divorce and having been out of the workforce since 2018 while raising her two children, she faced the daunting task of rebuilding her life. Adding to the challenge, she was also grappling with alcohol use and unsure of where to turn for support.
That turning point came when Rogena connected with the SEMCA Michigan Works! Monroe American Job Center—a decision that would transform her path forward.
With empathy and expertise, the SEMCA Michigan Works! team provided wraparound support. They connected Rogena to local counseling services to help her address her alcohol use and begin the journey toward healing. Through their encouragement and resources, she regained confidence, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose.
To help ease her return to the workforce, SEMCA Michigan Works! encouraged Rogena to volunteer with a local social group—an opportunity that helped her build experience, strengthen communication skills, and grow her network. With personalized support from career specialists, she built a professional resume and began applying to jobs with a newfound sense of readiness.
By 2024, Rogena secured a role as Business Manager at Woof Lodge in Monroe, a local business where she quickly made an impact, earning a starting wage around $20/hr, which means she’s really able to become self-sufficient on what she is earning. . SEMCA Michigan Works! helped her prepare for the role, providing subsidized employment and work attire to ensure she felt confident on day one.
Rogena’s journey came full circle when she partnered with SEMCA Michigan Works! again—this time to help hire new employees for the business. What began as a personal achievement evolved into a story of leadership and opportunity.
Through resilience and the right support, Rogena turned hardship into hope. Thanks to the guidance and resources from SEMCA Michigan Works!, she not only rebuilt her life and career, but is now helping others find their way forward.