Creation Date: 09/29/2026

Location of Service: 60466-2032

Program Details

Darriaunna Jones’ journey to becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) reflects resilience, determination, and the impact of having access to workforce development resources and supportive services.
Growing up in various neighborhoods throughout Chicago, the participant experienced significant challenges at an early age, including bullying and exposure to violence. At just 12 years old, she survived a serious incident in which she was stabbed. Following this experience, her family relocated to the Chicago suburbs. Despite ongoing personal challenges, she remained committed to moving forward and, in 2014, became the first of her siblings to graduate from high school.
After graduation, she entered the workforce, initially working in retail at Family Dollar. Approximately two years later, she relocated to Iowa to pursue higher education. While attending community college and studying criminal justice, she also worked evening shifts as a supervisor at Walmart. Balancing full-time employment and school without an established support system became increasingly difficult.
During this period, the participant also experienced a long-term abusive relationship that significantly affected her confidence, stability, and sense of direction. After 11 years, at age 27, she decided to leave the relationship and begin rebuilding her life.
This decision marked an important turning point. She began focusing on personal growth, rebuilding her confidence, and identifying a career path aligned with her passion for helping others. She returned to school, earned an associate degree in Child Development, and later began working in home care.
As her home care experience grew, the participant saw an opportunity to expand her skills and pursue professional credentials in healthcare. While researching resources to help cover training costs, her sister referred her to OAI’s Park Forest office.
After contacting OAI and learning about available workforce development services, the participant completed the required assessment and enrolled in a four-week Certified Nursing Assistant training program. She completed the program and passed the CNA competency examination on her first attempt, earning her CNA certification.
The training led to immediate employment. After becoming certified, the participant secured a CNA position, allowing her to apply her newly acquired skills while gaining valuable professional experience in the healthcare field.
Beyond credential attainment and employment, the program gave the participant access to resources, encouragement, and support that strengthened her confidence and reinforced her commitment to continued career advancement.
The participant is now preparing for the next stage of her professional development. She plans to continue her education toward earning her Registered Nurse (RN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) credentials, with the long-term goal of becoming a pediatric nurse.
Her progress shows the value of connecting individuals with accessible training, supportive services, and clear career pathways. Through her determination and OAI's workforce development support, the participant progressed from seeking help with occupational training to earning an industry-recognized credential, securing employment, and establishing a pathway toward a long-term nursing career.
Today, she continues to build upon these accomplishments with greater confidence, stability, and a clear vision for her future. Her journey illustrates that overcoming significant barriers, combined with access to the right resources and opportunities, can lead to meaningful employment, continued education, and long-term career advancement.