Meet Florence

Workforce Challenge

Florence is a refugee from Sierra Leone. She came to the U.S. to escape war, join her father, and pursue a better education. Her dream was to become a doctor. Unfortunately, Florence continued to experience difficulties after her arrival. Her dad and his girlfriend mistreated her so Child Protective Services placed her in Foster Care. When Florence came to the Greater Lincoln One-Stop Employment Solutions WIA SummerWorks program, she was a senior with a 3.8 GPA, “aging-out” of care.

Workforce Solution

She has since graduated from high school, successfully completed her SummerWorks employment and has been hired part-time by the worksite. After enrollment in WIA as a “Year Round” participant, she moved into her own apartment. She is currently attending Southeast Community College. In addition to school and her part-time job, Florence has been completing the requirements of U.S. Immigration Services in the hope that she will one day become a citizen of the United States.

Outcomes & Benefits

Florence continues to excel in her undergraduate studies. She is well on her way to achieving her dream to complete medical school and is an inspiration to all youth.

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