Despite these hardships, Aldon never lost hope. He tirelessly searched for employment, though success eluded him. On the brink of homelessness, he sought help at the Living and Learning Center in Sun Valley. There, he was introduced to SER’s SCSEP. Skeptical at first—having never heard of a program that would pay him to learn new skills—he cautiously enrolled and began his training.

It wasn’t long before Aldon realized the truth about SCSEP: he was acquiring new skills, gaining valuable experience, and rebuilding his confidence to re-enter the workforce. His unwavering work ethic and determination soon caught the attention of his Employment & Training Specialist (ETS), who promoted him to Participant Assistant (PST). In this role, Aldon excelled, assisting with the daily activities of SCSEP. His outstanding performance led to his selection for the ETS position in LA County when it became available.

We are thrilled to have Aldon on our team and eagerly anticipate the positive impact he will make. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative potential of the SCSEP.

Undeterred, Lilia channeled her determination into founding her own non-profit organization, Familias en Acción. This organization is dedicated to empowering low-income families by connecting them with beneficial programs and resources. Lilia’s passion for serving her community shines through in her work. She often says, “Although some of us weren’t born here, we should do our best to better our community because this is our home.”

Lilia credits SER-HEP for the support and opportunities that helped her improve academically. She now hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams and make a significant impact in their communities, no matter the obstacles they face.

In 2021, Pablo’s prospects changed dramatically when he discovered the National Farmworker Jobs Program. With their support, he enrolled in the Cosmoton Barber Academy, with the program covering his $17,000 tuition. His journey wasn’t without challenges. During his second year, personal issues threatened his attendance, but his dedicated case manager provided the encouragement he needed to stay on track.

On February 20, 2024, Pablo proudly graduated from Cosmoton Barber Academy. He is now diligently studying to take his California state exam to become a licensed barber. This program granted him an invaluable opportunity that he could never have afforded on his own. Determined to honor the investment SER-Jobs for Progress, Inc. in Santa Maria made in him, Pablo worked hard and never gave up.

Pablo extends his heartfelt gratitude to the amazing staff at the Santa Maria office. Their support and belief in him have turned his dream into reality. Now, he is ready to embark on his career as a professional barber, a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative impact of the National Farmworker Jobs Program.

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.