thrivelightsUnemployed and uncertain, Karen discovered through Thrive Lights that she needed to focus on both job readiness and well-being. Within three months, she secured full-time work and greater confidence.
A Story of Change in Orange County
When Karen joined Orange County United Way’s SparkPoint OC program, she was unemployed and feeling stuck. Her husband was the only one working, and after several years as a stay-at-home mom, she struggled to reenter the job market.
Seeing the Full Picture
As part of her intake, Karen completed the Thrive Lights survey. Many of her indicators showed up yellow, including the ones she expected: income, debt, and savings. She was surprised, however, to see that job readiness and emotional well-being were also highlighted.
The results gave her a new perspective. She realized her job search would need to focus on building a strong resume, but she also needed to care for her own confidence and well-being.
Charting a Way Forward
With her financial case manager, Karen got to work. She built her resume, began exploring opportunities, and looked for outside activities that would strengthen her confidence and help her find balance. Her Life Map gave her a framework to stay on track, making progress step by step.
Reaching a Turning Point
Within just three months, Karen secured a full-time job. Her finances improved, and so did her sense of well-being. By the time she completed her follow-up survey, several of her yellow indicators had shifted to green, showing the progress she had made in both practical and personal areas.
Growing in Every Area
Karen’s journey shows how Thrive Lights can reveal priorities that families might not see at first. What began as a financial challenge became an opportunity to build skills, confidence, and well-being.
Through Orange County United Way’s SparkPoint OC program, families like Karen’s gain the guidance and resources to identify their goals, stay focused, and move from surviving to thriving.
About Orange County United Way
For more than a century, Orange County United Way has been dedicated to solving critical issues in the community and empowering residents to reach their full potential. Through programs focused on education, financial stability, health, and housing, United Way helps families build stronger futures while working toward an Orange County united in compassion, opportunity, and lasting well-being.