CHANGING LIVES
While our communities continue to face generational economic and educational disparities, we are resilient, grounded in the belief that education and training are a direct path to financial independence, better lives and a stronger society.
We celebrate many success stories here at American Indian OIC/Takoda.
SUCCESS STORIES
Justin
Justin graduated last year from our Takoda Institute’s Digital Office Professional training program. He interned for us, too, and today is on staff, serving as a proctor in our testing center and as a data coordinator.
“The team here went the extra mile to help me,” Justin says. “They held me accountable and pushed me to accomplish my goals.”
Today, Justin’s goals include getting his bachelor’s degree (he’s working on it) and enjoying the house he and his partner recently bought. “There was a time I felt hopeless,” he says, “but now I’m back on track.”
Nicole
“If you can dream it, you can do it” is the mantra that Nicole carries close to her heart as she takes action to improve the future for her family following incarceration.
Through the Takoda Works Pathway Home – Project Soar program, Nicole learned new skills, earned national certifications and found a job. She’s worked closely with her case manger and others to establish both immediate and long-term goals.
Playing it forward by helping other young women leaving incarceration is part of her future, too, Nicole says. “Do this program if are really ready to better yourself and move ahead in your life.”
Nolan
Nolan successfully completed our Takoda Institute equipment operator/warehouse training and found a job at a large, home improvement store, where he’s putting his new skills to work driving a forklift.
Nolan’s pleased to be working outside of the food industry for the first time, and today can see a path to a better career and a brighter future.
We’re also proud of our 2021 Takoda Prep High School graduates. Some of them were featured on social media this spring, sharing their thoughts on their school experience and plans.
