National Roll of Achievers

Missouri

Sherry Lea Marler
Sherry began participation in the HUD Section 8 Rental Assistance Program in May of 1995. From the beginning, Sherry had clear goals for herself and had already begun work toward achieving them. Sherry has a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility for improving the quality of life for herself and her children. She demonstrated her willingness to give back to her community by volunteering her secretarial skills to the local Community Action Agency from November 1995 to July 1996.

Sherry progressed rapidly toward her goals. She enrolled in Three Rivers Community College in January 1996 and in August 1996, Sherry signed a contract to participate in the Family Self-Sufficiency Program. By December 1996, Sherry had completed 32 hours of office administration and computer science classes. In June 1997, she obtained her first long-term job with Comfort Master. When the company laid her off six months later due to lack of work, she rebounded and in less than two months had obtained a position at Check King, a local collection agency. Sherry excelled in this job and stayed with the company for two years.

Sherry changed jobs in July 1999, then in May 2000 she became a probation officer with the Three Rivers Citizens Advisory Board. Sherry again demonstrated her commitment to self-improvement and was able to convey to her clients her enthusiasm and her strong belief in the possibilities of success for each of them. In May 2001, she was promoted to Director and continues to work as a probation officer.

Her own life experiences and knowledge allows Sherry to make a significant impact on the lives of her clients and the success of the program she operates. Sherry has made herself a success and shares that success with her family and her community.

Ripley County Public Housing Agency
Poplar Bluff, MO
2001

Tina Thomas
Tina Thomas enrolled in the Family Self-Sufficiency Program of the Ripley County Public Housing Agency in October 1999. Within 31 months she had accomplished her goals and completed the program, despite a major surgery and loss of her first job.

Tina's progress is the result of hard work and consistent effort. She now works for the Independent Living Center of Southeast Missouri. Tina is an in-home health care worker for an elderly couple. Tina works seven days a week to meet their needs. She plans to continue to work for the couple as long as they need her. Tina has many fine qualities that I admire, but her dedication to her clients is exemplary.

Ripley County Public Housing Agency
Poplar Bluff, MO
2003