Share
My life before connecting with Orangewood was unstable, especially with my housing situation. I was facing a two-month deadline and was told I was aging out of the program, meaning that if I didn’t find housing, I would end up on the street.
During this time, I knew I couldn’t afford housing on my own while also carrying the responsibility of taking care of my son. I was working part-time at Ross, didn’t have a car, had no established credit, and felt completely unprepared for the responsibilities ahead of me.
Everything changed when a high school case worker told me about Orangewood and their parenting program for single mothers. Because I was a single mom looking for support, I knew I had to reach out.
My turning point came when I received support with transitional housing through Orangewood Foundation. They gave me the opportunity to secure housing for two years at a reduced rate. This changed everything: it allowed me to afford my rent and bills, look for full-time work, start community college, and enroll in a trade school program to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
Before joining the program, I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare, but people had told me I couldn’t go to school because I didn’t qualify for financial aid. With the support of my care coordinator, I got connected to resources and learned that I did qualify. That guidance helped me start my journey toward becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) while simultaneously completing my CNA program.
Earning my CNA certification meant a lot to me. It not only gave me hands-on experience for my nursing career but also an opportunity to create a stable, reliable employment to provide for my family.
I won’t lie—I surprised myself. I didn’t think I would be able to handle all of this at once. There were many times I wanted to give up, but persevering is in my nature. I knew my son was relying on me. Through the talks I had with my care coordinator, I was constantly reminded of how capable I am, and that the long days and nights wouldn’t last forever.
I had a two-month deadline and was told I was aging out of the program and if I didn’t find housing, I would end up on the street.
When I look back at where I started, I realize I have grown in every sense of the way. I am building deep trust in myself that I can do anything I set my mind to. One of the biggest ways I’ve grown is in how I handle adversity. Before, I wouldn’t challenge a “no.” Now, I know how to advocate for myself, ask the right questions, and find another avenue or resource where the answer might be “yes.”
Looking to the future, I plan to start my LVN program while gaining hands-on experience working as a CNA. Juggling being a mom, going to school, working, and attending trade school has taught me a vital lesson: there may be tired days, but they won’t last forever, and the outcome is always worth it.
To anyone else in a similar position, my advice is simple: Take advantage of the opportunities Orangewood offers and stay focused on your goals. When you graduate from the program, you won’t just feel a deep sense of accomplishment, you will have built a secure foundation for your future.
