Meet Ayanna

Colorado - Meet Ayanna

Workforce Success Story Submitted By: Pikes Peak Workforce Center

Workforce Challenge

Ayanna began working with the Pikes Peak Workforce Center's Young Adult team with a goal of starting a career in the animal care/services field. Part of Ayanna’s strategy plan developed with her case manager, Cathy Cimino was to enter a work experience with an animal care business. The business Ayanna selected was the Colorado Springs Therapeutic Riding Center. This choice is not a glamorous job caring for cuddly pets. On the contrary, it is hard work in the stables cleaning, watering, feeding, and if you prove yourself trustworthy brushing the horses. Ayanna began the internship in January of 2020 and continued working in this essential role through the phases of the COVID-19 restrictions.

Workforce Solution

1675 Garden of the Gods Road

Outcomes & Benefits

Her internship employer relied on her strong work ethic and gave Ayanna increased opportunities and responsibilities in caring for the livestock at the stables. All along Ayanna was learning more and more about the animal care industry and assessing her career options based on real world knowledge of the various roles in the field. Ayanna is still closing in on the specific path she wants to take for her long-term goal, but she will continue to gain the firsthand knowledge and experience thanks to her hard work and positive attitude. At the end of the internship in July 2020, the employer offered Ayanna a permanent part-time position at the stable. This is an unusual result for an internship at a non-profit employer and a clear indication of the impression Ayanna made during her work experience.
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