In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are inspired by STRIVE graduates who work tirelessly on the frontline in jobs that keep our communities safe and resilient. Every day, they show up in incredible ways: to care for our sick, clean our facilities, prepare our meals, and deliver vital supplies.
STRIVE graduate Shynice, a patient care coordinator at ModernMD Urgent Care in New York City, is one of these hidden heroes. Shynice describes to us what it's like on the frontline:
“I am tired. I’m on my 8th straight day, yet every person who walks in that door, I treat them how I would want my parents treated. People come in anxious and afraid, but they’ll do what I do—if I’m calm, they’re calm. I tell my patients 'We can fight this, and I can fight this with you.'
Next week is going to be hard. Now I’m focused on preparing myself, to make sure my body is ready. But my mind is ready—and that’s from STRIVE. I went there for a career to change my life. I was told my entire life I wasn't going to amount to anything. They trained, coached, and pushed me to do more than I imagined. They brought out my true self, which is what makes it easier for me to find strength and positivity. Four years later, I’m at a job where I make a difference.
The world will remember this time, and what we did in NYC. I’ve leaned on my STRIVE community; I'm prepared. I'm doing the right things, and I’m proud to be a positive part of history in the making.”
As the news fills with heartache and anxiety, STRIVE will share firsthand stories of resilience, grit, and hope from our graduates and students.
We support Shynice and the countless STRIVE hidden heroes in communities nationwide. Thank you for believing in STRIVE, the nation's leading solution for people who face the biggest obstacles to employment.