MWA Success Stories: Brandi Verell

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November 17, 2022

MWA Success Stories

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Brandi Verell: Becoming a Better Person

The Missouri Work Assistance (MWA) Program helps Temporary Assistance recipients become, “job ready,” through real work experience, resume preparation, interview guidance, job searching, and so much more. For someone who struggles to provide for a family, the prospect of a job search – or finding a better job – can often feel impossible. This is exactly what Missouri resident, Brandi Verell, was experiencing. “Before getting into this [MWA] program, I felt very alone; like I was barely keeping my head above water. I have four beautiful children – all boys. The rest of my family members are alcoholics and drug addicts. I am the first generation – in my family – to break the cycle of domestic, and substance, abuse.”

Brandi had a difficult time finding consistent and reliable employment. She was receiving Temporary Assistance, which made her eligible for the MWA Program. Working with MWA team members, Brandi developed an IEP (Individual Employment Plan), which personalized an employment plan to her needs, and helped her learn about new resources to support her on her journey. Of the MWA team members Brandi worked with, she said, “these people have been helpful in setting an example of what life can be, when you make the right decisions."

Brandi also credits MWA with her success in finding a job that provides her with a livable salary. “MWA helped me get a new job making a salary higher than anything I have ever made in my life!” 

Upon her completion of the MWA Program, Brandi accepted a management position with the Judevine Center for Autism. She credits MWA with helping her find confidence in herself and her abilities. “I needed support, and MWA gave me the opportunity to become a better person!”

Congratulations to Brandi and her amazing MWA team!

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This publication/program is supported by the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) of the United States (U.S.) Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award by ACF/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACF/HHS, or the U.S. Government.


The Missouri Work Assistance Program is Missouri’s employment and training program for Temporary Assistance recipients. The MWA program is funded through the Administration for Children and Families, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families block grant.


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