Program Details

Before entering the WIOA program, Whitney, a 37-year-old single mother of five children, struggled to find self-sufficient employment to support her family of six. In 2018, she became a Certified Medical Assistant and worked in that role for seven years, also serving as a server at Mario’s Restaurant. Despite financial challenges, her passion for healthcare motivated her to further develop her skills within the sector. She enrolled in the Nursing program at Lincoln Land Community College. She attended school while also maintaining both jobs. Whitney graduated in May 2025 with an Associate Degree in Nursing. Shortly after, she passed the NCLEX exam and became a Licensed Registered Nurse on June 26, 2025. She immediately moved from a Medical Assistant to an RN position at Springfield Clinic, increasing her earnings by $14.20 per hour.

Today, Whitney states, “I was finally able to let go of my second job — something I never thought possible all these years. That was made possible because of the WIOA grant. This program gave me more than just financial assistance — it gave me time. Time to focus on my studies. Time to be present for my children. Time to breathe. It lifted a weight I had carried for years, allowing me to pour my energy into school and into building a better future for my family.”