MIDDLEPORT, Ohio (WSAZ) -- Meigs County, Ohio, has one of the highest unemployment rates in the state, which is motivating a growing number of people there to go back to school -- high school, that is.

A program known as Adult Basic Literacy Education (A.B.L.E.) is helping to equip folks in troubled times, including Melissa Boggess. She becomes visibly emotional when she talks about dropping out of high school.

Boggess is among many working to make something better of their lives. From helping students get their G.E.D. to working on literacy and life skills, huge things are taking place in the small room where the A.B.L.E. program is offered.

"I feel really good," Boggess said.

Mallory Roach, who is just steps away from passing her G.E.D. and heading to college, said she plans to turn her love of photography into a booming business soon.

"I was so scared when I first came in; I cried," she said of her introduction to the A.B.L.E. program.

Charla Oden, an A.B.L.E. teacher, said the program continues to grow and will be available as long as it is needed.

A.B.L.E. operates under a no fail system; participants continue to take the test until they pass.