Staff & Links

Wilberto Torres: A True Success Story

  Wilberto Torres was a 45 yr. old seasonal worker who struggled mightily to support his new family when he first came to the Rural Opportunities Inc. office two years ago.  Wilberto tried to support his family by working in the grape crops, however work was insufficient to meet the needs of his family and he was forced to rely on Social Services.  Wilberto was referred to ROI for additional services.  Staff assisted him with living expenses while working to enroll him in classes to improve his command of the English language and obtain his GED.  He attended adult education classes to near perfection and earned his driver's license.

  He had some limited experience as a carpenter.  ROI staff were successful in developing a work experience opportunity through on-the-job training at the Rural Ministry.  Wilberto breezed through training and was ultimately hired by Rural Ministry as Building Services overseeing and maintaining the multi-unit apartments at the Coburn Building while attending classes four evenings per week at the Adult Learning Center in Dunkirk in effort to earn his GED.  Wilberto's personal qualities and accomplishments have not gone unnoticed.  He was elected by members of the Chautauqua County PAAC to serve as their representative to the ROI Corporate Board of Directors.  He also is facilitator for an Anger Mgt. Course held at the Friendly Kitchen.  "Willy" is an asset to the Rural Ministry. He is truly a success story.