After my divorce, I was at one of the lowest points of my life. I was very discouraged and depressed. I no longer had any self-confidence, yet I knew I needed to figure out how to support myself and my son. I had an associate degree in general studies, but had been unable to go back to finish my education. I didn’t feel it a coincidence when two different friends suggested I call my bishop for his help in applying to the Deseret Industries training program.

When I began working at DI, getting through the work day was beyond a chore. In a short time, I began to look forward to being at work and attending early morning devotionals. I discovered that the job coaches and management really did care about each of us there and what I was going through.

Soon I was made a cashier and that became a turning point for me, because I was so busy that I no longer had time to think about all of my problems. I was then offered a business partnership working part-time at a book store. I was very unsure of myself in the beginning, but after the first two weeks, I gained more confidence.

When I returned to DI, I was offered a lead position over small-as-is. I found this was a stretch for me, because I still lacked confidence. In a short time, I realized we were hitting our goals and everyone was getting along well. I found that I had come to love the people I worked with and the people I worked for. We all really enjoyed working together.

I knew that what I really needed was more schooling. My long term goal was to finish a four year degree, but I also knew that I needed to work in order to support myself and my son while in school. In counsel with my development specialist and job coach, we decided that pursing a certificate as a certified nursing assistant, or CNA, would be helpful. I started classes and did well. I now have a job working as a CNA, with the goal of returning to school to finish a four year degree.

I am grateful for the experience I gained while working at Deseret Industries. DI has forever changed me and help me become a better, more humble, and more grateful person. Working there gave me hope.