A partnership between the Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program (EKCEP) and regional recovery resources is yielding high-level career results for Kentuckians reentering the workforce. EKCEP officials announced today that a collaborative effort in Morehead has led to a significant promotion for Summer Benton, underscoring EKCEP’s commitment to providing comprehensive support for those in recovery.
The success story began in July 2025 at a partner day event at the Goodwill Opportunity Center in Morehead. It was there that Job Entry and Retention Support Specialist (JERRS) Jacob Sartin, with EKCEP’s Recovery and Reentry division, first met Benton, a determined job seeker eager to translate her recovery journey into a professional career.
Through the division’s Strategic Initiative for Transformational Employment (SITE), EKCEP provided a suite of professional development certifications designed to bridge the gap between treatment and long-term employment. These included credentials in financial literacy, work sense, customer support services, and digital literacy.
Beyond the classroom, EKCEP addressed critical logistical hurdles by providing gas cards for a grueling hour-long daily commute and professional work clothing. These strategic investments removed the immediate financial stressors that often threaten early employment stability.
The result of this investment is tangible. After securing a position as an Adult Peer Support Specialist with Mountain Comprehensive Care Center at Revived Radiance in Flemingsburg, Benton’s performance led to a recent promotion to a Team Lead position.
“The financial literacy class taught me valuable skills in budgeting my paycheck and helping me manage my income for my future,” Benton said. “All the classes have helped me grow personally and professionally. This assistance removed a major barrier for me and allowed me to focus on performing well in my job.”
The impact of the program extends beyond technical skills, addressing the self-esteem and professional identity of those navigating the recovery process.
“When a person goes through recovery, there are many stereotypes and labels people try to put on you,” Benton added. “Jacob [Sartin] has been very kind and compassionate, and that has really helped my self-esteem, which has allowed me to be better at my job with others. I am truly thankful for everything EKCEP has done to help me move forward and create a more stable and positive future.”
EKCEP’s Recovery and Reentry division continues to expand its reach, operating in more than 70 Kentucky counties to ensure that employment remains a cornerstone of long-term recovery success.
About EKCEP EKCEP, a nonprofit workforce development agency headquartered in Hazard, Ky., serves the citizens of 23 Appalachian coalfield counties. EKCEP is funded by the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, along with various federal and state grants and private donations, and is a proud partner in the American Job Center network. Learn more at ekcep.org.