A welfare-to-wellness-to-work program

Abstract

This cross-sectional, exploratory study evaluates and describes a welfare-to-wellness-to-work program developed by a nurse located in the western United States. Adults (N = 34) aged 23-57-years-old, who participated in the program from 2001 to 2007, completed a demographic/health survey and were interviewed. From open-ended, semistructured questions, the study identified key themes related to the program. Content analysis of the data revealed significant insights about the program's curriculum, positive changes for the participants, obstacles and challenges they confronted, employment success, and a motivational tool (affirmations). Participants gained overwhelming benefit from the program and enhanced their functioning as individuals, family members, and parents.