Dora Leticia Garibo Espinoza’s life is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of a better future. Originally from Michoacán, Mexico, she faced significant challenges as a single mother and primary caregiver to her father, who suffered from serious health issues. Determined to provide for her family, Dora moved to the United States, where she found employment in the agricultural sector of Clovis, California, working various jobs from harvesting to trucking for farms. Her ambitions, however, reached far beyond her agricultural work.

Embracing every opportunity for growth, Dora’s life took a transformative turn when she discovered Fresno’s High School Equivalency Program (HEP). Graduating from HEP in June 2018 was just the beginning; she then successfully obtained her tax prepare license in February 2020. Dora’s journey from the fields of Clovis to becoming a licensed tax preparer is a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity and seizing opportunities for advancement. Her story highlights the crucial role of educational programs like HEP in empowering individuals to achieve their dreams and potential.

Estefania De Lira’s story of achieving three degrees from Imperial Valley College underscores her unwavering commitment to her goal of becoming a Registered Nurse, reflecting her deep-seated desire to contribute positively to her community’s health. Her educational journey, marked by resilience and hard work, prepared her for the challenges that lay ahead in her nursing career. Facing the TEAS exam, a crucial hurdle in her path, Estefania found invaluable support through the National Farmworker Jobs Program (NFJP). This program equipped her with essential job readiness skills, including resume writing and interview preparation, boosting her confidence and aligning her career aspirations with her personal goals.

Securing a position as a Front Desk Clerk at Pioneer Memorial Hospital marked a significant milestone in Estefania’s journey, bringing her one step closer to her nursing dreams. This role was more than a job; it was an opportunity to balance her career ambitions with her educational pursuits, highlighting the importance of perseverance and targeted assistance. Estefania’s experience is a testament to the transformative impact of supportive programs like NFJP, which play a crucial role in helping individuals like her navigate their career paths and achieve their professional and personal growth aspirations.

In every organization, there are teams whose critical work goes largely unnoticed by the public eye, yet their contribution is vital to the overall success and integrity of the operations. At SER, one such indispensable team is our Internal Monitoring Unit. Comprised of a dedicated staff of three; Michael Miranda, Andrew Gaston and Mae-Kayla Starks.  This team operates behind the scenes, ensuring that our programs and services not only meet but exceed standards of excellence and compliance.

The Internal Monitoring Unit is tasked with the crucial role of conducting reviews of SER’s programs. They ensure that every initiative aligns with both our mission and the regulatory requirements set forth by our funding bodies and partners. Their work involves the evaluation of program delivery and outcomes assessment.

The meticulous efforts of the Internal Monitoring Unit allow SER to maintain transparency, accountability, and efficiency across operations. By identifying areas for improvement, they directly contribute to enhancing the quality of services we provide to our community. Their work not only safeguards our reputation but also ensures that we continue to secure the trust and support of our constituents and partners.

1. Typical Day in the Internal Monitoring Unit (IMU):
   • The IMU team spends their day reviewing multiple files related to Enrollments, Progress Reviews, Re-certifications, and Exits, which are sent over by the Employment Training Specialist (ETS). Each team member ensures these files comply with the SCSEP Program Guidelines. When errors are noted the ETS is notified and required to submit corrections within 72 hours of receipt.   Approved files are organized and sent for final approvals using their established filing systems.   
2. Challenges Faced by the Internal Monitoring Unit:
   • The IMU often encounters various issues with file reviews, primarily due to nuances that require specific attention. The primary solution is effective communication within the team and with other relevant staff like Coordinators or ETS. Problems such as miscommunication, file disorganization, and incorrect file submissions are typically resolved through clear and prompt communication, ensuring consistency in file handling.
3. Impact of the Internal Monitoring Unit on SER’s Programs:
   • The IMU plays a critical role in enhancing the effectiveness of SER’s programs by ensuring the accuracy and compliance of participant files before they reach contracting sources. Their diligent reviews lead to cleaner files that require less time for further processing and approvals, thus streamlining the entire file handling process and reducing error rates significantly.
4. Significant Improvements from Internal Monitoring Unit’s Findings:
   • A notable improvement was made during the transition to the SCSEP HUB website, where IMU developed simplified checklists in collaboration with Coordinator Catherine Irving. These checklists helped clarify the filing and monitoring processes, specifying which documents were mandatory and which were conditional. The implementation of these checklists streamlined the review process for IMU and was also shared with ETS’s and Coordinators, greatly enhancing the overall efficiency of document handling within the program.

Watch video to discover how SER’s Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) is transforming lives and empowering seniors over 55 living below the federal poverty line to re-enter the workforce.

Through personalized training and support, SCSEP participants like those at Catholic Charities are gaining the skills and confidence needed to thrive in new careers.

This video highlights the journey of participants who, after decades in the workforce, find themselves learning and growing, proving it’s never too late for a fresh start. 

Education is a powerful tool that opens doors to new opportunities and brighter futures. At SER, we understand this, and it’s why our High School Equivalency Program (HEP) stands at the forefront of our mission to empower individuals through learning.

The Essence of HEP:

The HEP program is tailored for those who have not completed their high school education. It offers a second chance to individuals who aspire to improve their lives but face barriers due to the lack of a high school diploma. Through HEP, we provide comprehensive support, including study materials, classes, and access to dedicated tutors, all aimed at helping participants successfully pass their High School Equivalency exams.

Why HEP Matters:

For many, the journey to a high school equivalency diploma is more than just an academic goal; it’s a step towards personal and professional growth. HEP participants come from diverse backgrounds, bringing stories of resilience and determination. By earning their diploma, they open the door to higher education, better job prospects, and a renewed sense of confidence.

Success Stories:

Our blog would be incomplete without mentioning the inspiring success stories that emerge from the HEP program. Take Maria, for instance, a mother of two who balanced her studies with her family responsibilities. Her perseverance paid off when she passed her exams, leading to a better job that transformed her family’s life.

A Community Effort:

HEP’s success is not just a reflection of individual determination but also of the robust support system provided by SER’s staff and volunteers. Their guidance and encouragement are pivotal in navigating the challenges faced by our learners.

Conclusion:

The High School Equivalency Program at SER is more than an educational initiative; it’s a beacon of hope for many. It underscores our belief in the transformative power of education and our commitment to making this power accessible to all. We invite you to join us in this journey – whether as a participant, a volunteer, or a supporter – and help us turn the dream of education into a reality for many more.

Are you or someone you know interested in the HEP program? Contact us to learn more about how we can help. Together, we can build a brighter, more educated future for everyone.