Leigh Dulliban

The following is a letter sent to me by Leigh Duliban, following her recent graduation from the REACH Program (July 7, 2023).

I have had the pleasure of going through not one, but two of NPH's programs. In 2013 I was a recent high school graduate but backed out of going on to college due to being trapped in a toxic relationship at that time. I found myself scared, confused and stuck. I had lost my part time cashier job due to depression and it was around that time I came across the NPH Construction Renovation Program created specifically for clients of Ontario Works.

Although it took some self-convincing to apply and accept a position, once I began in the program I realized I was in an incredibly safe space, so I reached out for help, and did they ever help me. Not only did David and Paul offer the construction skills training, employment support, life skills coaching and confidence building part, but right next door to them is The Niagara Women’s Enterprise Centre, which offered supports specifically to women emerging from toxic relationships and domestic violence.

Through this work I finally left my toxic relationship but then found myself technically homeless. Turns out they help with that too. In fact, it was hard to come up with any problem they would not at least try to help with. They helped me get back on my feet in so many ways.

During the program I remained on OW, then after completing the Construction Renovation Program, NPH hired me into their property maintenance division where I found myself working with other skilled trades people, but also other past graduates NPH had also hired – one in particular (Jake Stevenson) had worked his way up to an assistance supervisor role, purchased a house and changed his own life for the better.

I truly loved that job, but as time went on, my employment contract with NPH was coming to an end and I found myself in a new relationship and expecting my first child. I went on to be a mostly stay-at-home mom raising 4 awesome children. And as I closed the chapter of having kids, I knew I wanted to get back to work, but not the part time retail work I had been doing in between babies. I did return to college and attempted an automotive technician program but hit a point where I couldn't afford to continue without an income, so I dropped out.

I got a job working with my children's father for a little while in a warehouse, where I discovered how much I enjoyed driving forklifts, but ultimately ended up getting laid off in the slow season. That's when I discovered (through facebook) about the latest NPH construction skills program (Reach) and so ‘reached out’ to David to see if I could potentially come back for round 2. Hard to believe it had been 10 years!

Of course, they welcomed me back with open arms. The program was different this time, but just as educational and just as much fun. The things I learned in such a short period of time still amazes me, but it's amazing what can happen with such great teachers! The program flew by, and through their networking and local contacts I was able to land a great job with Custom Look Cabinetry and Home Renovations, where I will be beginning a carpentry apprenticeship in the coming months. It also happens the company already had a past Team ENERGI program graduate working there who is also doing a carpentry apprenticeship.

I'm so happy with this job and I feel like this entire journey is just such a huge part of me. I'm so incredibly appreciative and grateful for all of the wonderful opportunities I've received through REACH. Reach is not a program, it is a family, and it has truly changed my life, and my kiddos lives in so many ways. I'm so proud to show my kids what happens with hard work and a great support system.  Leigh Duliban.

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