Power of Caring. Working for All. In Action.
At United Way of Dane County, we know that when more individuals have jobs earning family-sustaining wages and safe and affordable housing, they are less stressed and better able to provide for themselves and their families. That’s why our Plan for Community Well-Being focuses on a future where more families have what they need to become economically stable.
When Sofia, a first-generation Mexican American decided she wanted to become a nurse to better support her family while pursuing a fulfilling career, she wasn’t sure where to begin. Through our HIRE program, we connected her with partners at Centro Hispano, where she was enrolled in the Caminos CNA program. While continuing to work as a lead crew trainer at McDonalds for six years – making $13/hour – Sofia worked hard to complete her high school education at Madison College and attended the Caminos CNA class three times a week. It was certainly not easy balancing it all, but Sofia persevered and graduated the program this past spring! And she recently accepted a full-time CNA position, earning $19/hour with benefits. Sofia hopes to continue her educational journey towards a nursing degree for herself and her family.
We’re so proud of the role we were able to play in helping Sofia – and so many others. Thanks to your support, our HIRE program participants are empowered to grow into careers that support their families as they work to succeed in school, work and life. Together with our partners, we are helping more people reach their full potential through our Plan for Community Well-Being. And your continued support matters! Visit our website to learn more and make a gift today.