IMPORTANT: The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has changed the application process for emergency rental and mortgage assistance! Click here to learn more.

Click here to learn more about Rosewood Way, our newest development in Agawam!

The Family Self-Sufficiency Program

Ivan Felix Creates a Path to a Successful Future

July 27, 2019

“Not only has Way Finders helped me maintain my independence in some of my hardest times, but the FSS program helped me acknowledge my potential and sort out my lifelong goals.”

Ivan Felix is a 31-year-old Section 8 participant from Puerto Rico who enrolled in our Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program in 2016. When he joined the program he was struggling with keeping a job and managing his finances. He couldn’t picture himself with a
successful future. He had no high school education, income, credit, transportation, health insurance, or support.

Ivan says that he wasn’t selfmotivated and, without a support system, was stuck in a constant loop of procrastination. That all changed. With Way Finders, he had a team behind him, cheering him on as he worked towards his goals. Today, Ivan works full-time at the Hilton Garden Inn in Springfield where he was promoted from Cook to Supervisor to the Manager of Food and Beverages. His income has increased by $25,090 since joining the FSS program and he now has a credit score of 675. Ivan has obtained health insurance, a driver’s license, and his own vehicle and has graduated all his Hi-SET classes in June, 2019. 

Next, he hopes to pursue a degree in journalism or possibly start his own business. Ivan credits much of his success to support from the Way Finders staff. We credit his achievements to his own determination, hard work, and vision of a brighter future. 

Learn more about Way Finders' Economic Mobility Programs for Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Participants.

X