We are so proud to share with you today the story of Catana, our graduate speaker at the STRIVE 35th Anniversary Gala.
Catana was involved in the street life growing up, so she wanted to provide her daughter with a better childhood than she had had. Unfortunately, she made a decision that landed her in prison. When she was released, she was ready to change her life, but found it difficult to find a job. She went to seven different programs, but none of them could help her. She was frustrated. However, her brother was a STRIVE graduate, and when she saw how well he was doing, Catana decided to try STRIVE’s program.
“STRIVE taught me how to dress professionally, shake hands properly, build a resume, and be confident in an interview. But most importantly, STRIVE dramatically changed me as a person,” Catana explained at the gala last week. “I was able to let go of all the feelings that were locked inside me and keeping me from getting the job I wanted.”
Catana graduated with her construction certifications and found a job, where she was soon promoted. She is now opening her own company, has bought a car and a home, and sent her daughter to college. Because of her time with STRIVE, her life and her family’s life have changed forever.
