Rapid City, SD
A mother finds the confidence to grow with her family.
Kimberly was three credits away from graduating from high school when she found out she was pregnant. Feeling out of place, she made the tough decision to drop out. The next several years brought four more children. Eventually, Kimberly’s family of seven found themselves living with her mother-in-law.
Her mother told her that Kimberly’s younger sister was going to finish school. This spurred Kimberly to start a General Education Diploma (GED) program. Kimberly was working to earn her GED when she heard about the Pathways to Healthcare Professions (PHP) program from a Great Plains Tribal Chairmen’s Health Board employee. As she progressed through the GED program, her self-confidence soared when she passed the math test. Kimberly’s newfound belief in herself and the PHP staff inspired her to enroll in the two-week certified nursing assistant (CNA) class hosted at the Great Plains Tribal Chairmen’s Health Board in Rapid City, SD.
Kimberly successfully completed the CNA class and passed the state exam. Almost immediately, Kimberly got a job as a CNA. With her new job, her family was able to get a home of their own. They also bought a second vehicle, making it easier to coordinate seven busy schedules.
After a year as a CNA, Kimberly decided it was time to advance her knowledge and skills. With the support and encouragement of her PHP student coach and CNA instructor, she enrolled in the licensed practical nurse (LPN) program at a local technical college.
Kimberly is eager to continue her LPN training and excited about the bright future for her family.
This Success Story was self-identified by the grantee and information contained in this document was provided by the grantee.