Learn. Work. Empower.

With the many recent medical advancements, life expectancy and lung function for those with cystic fibrosis continues to improve. These medical advancements have a significant, positive impact on the CF community, but also come with new challenges. As a result of their improved health, many CF patients lose SSDI income and need to find a way to support themselves financially. In 2018, only 39% of adults with CF had a college degree, and just 52% were employed. While many patients see improved health, they face a reality that they were not anticipating and are not prepared for: providing for themselves financially.

Our founder Claire experienced how difficult it was, as a young adult with CF, to find flexible employment that provided her with a realistic, sustainable income. As Claire’s Place continues her legacy, we are committed to empowering the CF community to live and work proudly.

What is WPP all about?

Claire’s Place Foundation does not provide job placement services. 

Claire’s Place Foundation Work Proudly Program is designed to help participants identify potential careers, cover the cost of certificate job training, and provide tools and equipment for remote work. This allows participants to gain the skills to be competitive in the job market and become more prepared to acquire flexible, work-from-home employment.

We do offer career coaching, job search support, certificate training, and related resources to help you make meaningful progress toward your career goals. Participation in the program does not guarantee employment, and success will depend on your effort and commitment.

Work Proudly Updates

Do you qualify for the Work Proudly Program?

Criteria:

Participants are identified through a Social Worker Referral, the link is below. The Work Proudly Program Case Manager will contact all referred individuals  to ensure they meet Work Proudly’s qualifications, which include:

• A confirmed diagnosis by a hospital professional of cystic fibrosis for themselves or their dependent. 

• A history of inability to support themselves through other avenues and/or SSI/SSDI that is at risk of being cut back or is not enough to support themselves or their family.

• The Work Proudly Program is a competitive opportunity designed to support individuals with cystic fibrosis and caregivers in their career journey. Due to limited availability, not all applicants will be accepted. Each application is carefully reviewed to ensure the program is the right fit for both the participant and our resources. We encourage all interested individuals to apply and demonstrate their commitment to professional growth.

Hospital workers: please use the link below to submit a referral on behalf of a patient or caregiver. Upon receipt, a link to the application will be sent to the client and you will be copied.

*If you are an organization or an individual that would like to assist us in addressing this need and supporting this program, please send an email to melissa@clairesplacefoundation.org

Profile of Successful Participants 

Successful participants in the Work Proudly Program are proactive, committed, and open to personal and professional growth. A strong candidate is someone who has demonstrated the ability to manage independent work, set goals, and stay accountable—whether through self-directed learning, job search activities, or balancing multiple responsibilities. They are realistic about their challenges, such as managing health conditions, transportation issues, or educational barriers, and approach these obstacles with resilience and problem-solving skills. Additionally, they are ready to dedicate focused time each week to job searching, training, and career development. Ultimately, the most successful participants view this program as a pivotal step in their journey, embracing the opportunity to make meaningful career progress while balancing their personal and professional responsibilities

How to Apply:

A hospital professional worker must submit a referral on your behalf to be considered for the Work Proudly Program. This includes Social Workers, Doctors and Nurses.

Claire’s Place Foundation does not discriminate against or deny aid because of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender orientation or political affiliation.

Hospital Professional Referral Form

Our Work Proudly Partners

 We have some amazing businesses and organizations that help make this program happen. We can’t thank them enough for empowering our programs participants to “work proudly.”

Program PARTNERS

Programming Support