When Terrell Williams contracted COVID in 2020, he had no idea the long-term impact it would have on his life. His initial bout with the virus turned into long-term COVID, which led to his dismissal from his job. “I was employed for eighteen years,” said Williams. “I never really thought I would be in this situation.”

It was a tight spot for Williams. He already wanted to upgrade his Class B CDL license to gain access to more and better-paying opportunities. But with the loss of his long-term job and no money coming in, he had significant barriers to reaching his goal. “When I found Charlotte Area Fund, I was able to take classes – Work Smart, a computer class and a resume writing class,” Williams said. He notes that without the support of Charlotte Area Fund, the transition would have been even more challenging.

Williams and his Success Coach were able to create a plan that would enable him to quickly access the career and license training he needed to move forward. Charlotte Area Fund then offered financial support to help cover the income gap during the four-week class to upgrade to a Class A CDL license. “I was able to attend the four-week program, successfully graduate and start my new career two weeks later. I’m moving forward in that career and it was a very rewarding experience,” said Williams.

“I was able to attend the four-week program, successfully graduate and start my new career two weeks later. I’m moving forward in that career and it was a very rewarding experience.”

Terrell Williams, CAF Graduate