From Struggle to Success: Danny's Path to a Credentialed Career

Daniel “Danny” Martin of Ironton, Ohio, is a man on a mission—he wants to turn his life around after a difficult past. His desire to secure a stable job and contribute positively to his family’s life is strong.

 

However, upon his release from prison in 2022, Danny faced numerous obstacles. A history of substance use disorder, challenges reintegrating into society, and the need for relevant job qualifications made it difficult for him to achieve his goals. With limited options, he struggled to find a pathway to a stable career and financial independence.

 

Danny was connected to local reentry resources and was the first recipient of financial assistance from the Southern Ohio Reentry Coalition to pay off fines so that he could have his driver’s license reinstated. Through Lawrence County’s “Recovery to Work” program, specifically by the OhioMeansJobs-Lawrence County, Danny was referred to Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD).

 

OOD stepped in as a vital resource. Services are designed to assist individuals like Danny in overcoming substantial barriers to employment. By providing access to training and resources, OOD supported Danny’s journey toward success.

 

Danny’s path to transformation began with the OOD Jobs for Recovery program, which helped him focus on recovery while gaining work experience. With the assistance of OOD, he obtained his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with hazardous materials (HAZMAT) and Tanker endorsements that would enhance his employability.

 

“My whole life has changed with the help of OOD,” Danny explained. “My sister works in treatment, and I gave her information on OOD to send people through.”

 

Ricardo Nelson, OOD Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, shared, “Through perseverance and self-awareness, Danny has demonstrated his ability to effectively use available resources to grow personally and professionally, despite life’s difficulties or obstacles.”

 

Danny now thrives in his career as a hazmat driver delivering electric vehicle batteries, earning nearly $10 more an hour than he did at his previous job.

 

“I feel like a normal human being,” Danny said, crediting OOD and his support network for his success. “My mom has always been there for me, and I met my future wife in the summer of 2023. I have completely changed my lifestyle. I have so many positive people in my life now.”

 

If you or someone you know has a disability and would like to work, visit OODWorks.com or call 800-282-4536.