I have a changed perspective and have been so blessed with the opportunities to work with Forward Service and the various programs. I could never have done this alone.
Mercedez’s story is one of remarkable transformation. In March 2024, she relocated from California to Wisconsin, enrolling in the Wisconsin Works W-2 program with a single goal: to create a stable, fulfilling life for herself and her soon-to-be-born son. Leaving her friends and family behind, Mercedez took bold steps to pursue a fresh start. Even with her first child due within the month, she was determined to begin a path toward self-sufficiency and success, starting with securing her GED.
Starting Strong with Clear Goals
At the outset, Mercedez’s focus was on preparing for her new role as a mother, which meant tackling essential needs like housing, childcare, and reinstating her driver’s license. From her very first meeting with her case manager, Mercedez expressed her dream of earning her GED and eventually building a career. However, she wisely prioritized immediate goals, knowing her son’s arrival would require her full attention. “I knew that with her newborn son’s due date rapidly approaching, she had other things she needed to accomplish prior to his arrival,” her case manager recalls.
Achieving Milestones in Education and Personal Growth
After an eight-week maternity leave, Mercedez connected with Ashleigh on the Education Navigation team, who guided her through her GED requirements. With each test passed, Mercedez gained confidence and motivation. Ashleigh kept her case manager updated: “Mercedez passed her first GED test today; she is so motivated!” And then, another message: “She is on a roll; she just passed another GED test!” By July, Mercedez had completed all her HSED requirements—a major accomplishment for a single mom of a newborn. “We were both incredibly proud and happy for this accomplishment,” her case manager shared. This success only strengthened Mercedez’s determination, as she quickly set her sights on her next goal: reinstating her driver’s license.
With assistance from supportive services to cover fees, Mercedez regained her independence. Each achievement added momentum to her journey, allowing her to focus on her ultimate dream: a career in phlebotomy.
Dreaming Big: The Path to Becoming a Phlebotomist
Mercedez shared with her case manager that her dream was to become a licensed phlebotomist—a career that promised a steady income, benefits, and a bright future for her and her son. To provide additional support, her case manager encouraged her to join the FoodShare Employment Training (FSET) program, where she began working with Morgan. Mercedez researched phlebotomy programs and discovered an upcoming class at Fox Valley Technical College, starting in late August. Through the FSET program, Mercedez received help covering her course costs and was even provided with scrubs to ensure she had the proper attire for hands-on training.
Celebrating Her Successes Along the Way
In early September, Mercedez received her HSED diploma in the mail. She visited the office to collect a frame for her diploma and took photos in a cap and gown, proudly celebrating this accomplishment with her son by her side. Her case manager noted, “I sat down with Mercedez and talked to her about how proud I was of her and all her accomplishments thus far.”
In a heartfelt moment, Mercedez opened up, sharing that her move to Wisconsin was a deliberate choice to escape difficult circumstances in California. She reflected on her journey from overcoming a challenging past to now working toward a career in healthcare. “It’s crazy for me to think of myself now working and studying to become a phlebotomist given my past,” she said. “I decided I wanted to laugh where I used to cry, and now I have a changed perspective and have been so blessed with the opportunities to work with Forward Service and the various programs. I could never have done this alone.”
On Track for Graduation and a Promising Future
Today, Mercedez is continuing her phlebotomy studies with a projected graduation date of December 21, 2024. Her case manager remains inspired by her progress and dedication, often reminding her of her strength. Mercedez always replies, “Thank you for the opportunity to work hard.”
Mercedez’s journey is a testament to her resilience, showing how hard work and support from the W2 and FSET programs can help single mothers and others in challenging situations achieve their dreams. Her story is an inspiring example of turning adversity into success—one goal, one step at a time.
