MARTINSVILLE, Va. (rbs news now) — The Warming Center of Martinsville and Henry County celebrated the recent graduates of its Getting Ahead program.

The 17-session workshop is designed to help individuals motivated for change to develop the tools and support necessary to succeed in today’s world.

Six participants completed the program this season, gaining skills and creating personal, goal-based plans aimed at making lasting changes.

Getting Ahead emphasizes building success through 11 key resources: financial, emotional, language, mental, social capital, physical, spiritual, motivation, relationships, integrity, and knowledge of the “hidden” rules of social class.

The Warming Center thanked Brandy Lawless with United Way of Henry County & Martinsville for her dedication to supporting the graduates throughout the program.

The center also thanked Louann Moore with Moore Ministries, who helped facilitate the class each week, providing mentorship and guidance.

The graduation celebration featured a recorded congratulatory message from Martinsville City Councilman Julian Mei, which was played for the graduates.

Vice Mayor Kathy Lawson and Councilman Rayshaun Gravely attended the event in person to celebrate with the graduates.

“Our unhoused population often feels like a burden on the community, but when city council representatives are present and supportive, it allows them to feel heard and recognized,” the Warming Center wrote in a Facebook post on March 22.

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