When it comes to achieving a dream, a good plan is essential. Without a goal to strive toward, however, I’m reminded of the exchange between Alice and the Cheshire Cat in Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland:
‘Would you tell me, please, which way I ought to go from here?’ asked Alice
‘That depends a good deal on where you want to get to,’ said the Cat.
‘I don’t much care where,’ said Alice.
‘Then it doesn’t matter which way you go,’ said the Cat.
When Jacqueline first enrolled in Wisconsin Works (W-2), she was a lot like Alice. She didn’t know exactly what she wanted to do, so she didn’t fully utilize the program’s resources to get anywhere. After some thought, however, Jacqueline realized that she did have hopes and dreams, and she wanted to see them happen. Once she knew what she wanted to do, Jacqueline’s path became crystal clear.
Looking beyond the horizon
Jacqueline wanted a meaningful future, but she was struggling to see beyond her daily struggles. Wisconsin Works helped her find stable housing, reliable transportation, and income to support her children. With her burdens lifted, Jacqueline could finally see beyond her situation and toward something new.
Jacqueline had seen the negative effects of substance abuse firsthand, and knew she could help others that were struggling, too. Going back to school would give Jacqueline the skillset she needed to help those in need.
Lori, Jacqueline’s W-2 case manager, recounts how everything changed once Jacqueline had a vision for the future: “She is a completely different person and is determined to be successful and reach her dreams.”
Stepping toward a dream
Jacqueline enrolled at Blackhawk Technical College for classes in Substance Abuse Counselling, where she is on track to graduate next Spring. Jacqueline also started a paid internship with Parents Supporting Parents, where she’s learning how to be successful in a social services career. “I’m truly proud of her and love seeing the progress and her transition. She finally realized that she wants and needs more for herself,” says Lori.
Congratulations, Jacqueline!
Make a step toward your dream today! Learn more about our Wisconsin Works program.
