Medical employers in Grant and Adams Counties posted 315 job openings for Registered Nurses in the last year. Nearly a quarter of those were with Samaritan Healthcare, the largest care economy employer in Grant County. Training providers like Big Bend Community College offer nursing degree programs to address this ongoing need for RNs, but these programs are extremely competitive and academically challenging. It takes a lot of hard work to succeed. And often, it takes support.
Charlie is a dedicated single mother of three. She was struggling to make ends meet working retail at a home improvement store and knew she needed a new pathway to be able to support herself and her kids. Charlie came to SkillSource in search of scholarship funding to pursue her nursing degree.
SkillSource provided crucial support services during her training, which helped her maintain the stability needed to focus on her education. With the assistance of SkillSource and funding from State Economic Security For All (EcSA), Charlie persevered through the rigorous nursing program at Big Bend. In addition to support services, Charlie earned monthly financial incentive payments for satisfactory progress on her career plan. The support she received was enough to keep her on the path toward completing her degree..
Charlie’s hard work paid off. Upon graduating, she secured two positions, one at Samaritan Hospital and another as a part-time home health nurse. These opportunities provided financial security for her family and also marked the beginning of a fulfilling career in healthcare, a testament to her determination, resilience, and the effective partnership between Charlie and SkillSource.
“Wow, thank you. I can’t imagine how much harder it would have been without the help I got. I feel like I barely made it as it was. The help from SkillSource has had a major impact on my life and I am so grateful for your program!” ~ Charlie
Charlie shared her story in person on a recent legislative tour of Samaritan Hospital. She said that becoming a Registered Nurse was the hardest thing she ever did, but it was more than worth it. She and her kids are closer than ever, and they are so proud of their mom for her accomplishments! We are so proud of her too. Hard work and strong partnerships make just about anything possible. Congratulations to Charlie and to Samaritan Healthcare!
SkillSource is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. WA Relay 711.
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