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. “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.