Just the beginning…

When Maria entered the Family Development Program in the Fall of 2006, she was a single mother of four children and the family’s sole provider. She wanted to explore different employment opportunities but she was very limited by her education level. Maria was motivated to make change in her life and needed support to help her achieve her goals.

With the help of her Family Advocate, Michelle Mezaris, Maria created her goal plan. She enrolled in the Painesville ABLE program and attended classes twice per week for over one year. Maria and Michelle worked together and discussed challenges and obstacles that would prevent her from being successful. “My advocate was there for me, my children, and helped me on the good and bad. Always here to help me” said Maria.

In January 2008, Maria achieved her ultimate goal: She earned her GED. Michelle states “She has just opened up a door with a million possibilities waiting for her. Maria’s GED success is just the beginning of her story.”

Maria is Lifeline’s Outstanding Achievement Award Winner for 2008.