We emigrated from Nicaragua with the hope of leaving behind a life of poverty. We came prepared and willing to work hard, doing the worst jobs possible. Then, my husband became sick and couldn’t work, so I became the only support for our family. Out of necessity, I needed to improve my English to get a better job. This was when I was referred to Deseret Industries.

I feel very grateful for those at Deseret Industries who helped me speak English a lot better. My job coach gave me many opportunities to help me conquer my fear of the English language. When my confidence increased in the language, I was asked to become a lead in the training program. I trained others to understand and work in the areas that I had been trained in before, such as cashiering and cleaning. My development specialist assisted me to become certified as a dental assistant, and arranged for me to participate in a business partnership at a local dental office. There I used my Spanish to translate for the dentist and patients. After working at DI, I have helped others in the program as an example for them to see how satisfied I am with my new job as a dental assistant.

Through the Deseret Industries program, my economic situation has improved and I feel like a person of value who has the capacity to go forward in life. I would recommend DI to anyone who wants a great opportunity to make a change in their life.