Briefly tell us about your family background/structure? Please explain (for example: single parent or two parent household, number of children, where did you grow up etc.).
I am Native American (California Valley Miwok) and I grew up in South Sacramento. I had both of my parents until I was 17, when they separated. Things got hard and I rebelled and gave up on everything, but my mother never gave up on me. She has been my backbone no matter what.

Tell us about the type of success you achieved while on the Shingle Springs Tribal TANF Program. Please explain.
The type of success I achieved while on SSTTP was receiving my High School Diploma from Twin Rivers Adult School.

Who played a significant role or motivated you in your success story? Please explain.
My mother, Rich, and Stace played a huge role in my success. They never let me give up, even when I wanted to.

What were some of the barriers you experienced along the way to your success? Please explain.
I never thought I would succeed in anything until Rich helped me push through. Even though he isn’t a counselor, he still always listened to anything I had to say and always gave his best advice.

What were some of your personal strengths you used to obtain success? Please explain.
Being a mother and knowing I have a daughter looks up to me and depends on me. She made me stronger to push through every day for her.

What is your future goal/next step in your Family Wellness Plan?
My next step in my Family Wellness Plan is to finish up school at NCE and get a great paying job being a phlebotomist.

What advice can you give to participants on SSTTP?
My advice to other participants on SSTTP is to stay strong no matter what life throws at you. Just know at TANF, you are not alone.