In a groundbreaking collaboration, TLNA joins forces with CVS Health and New Moms Inc. to empower young mothers in Chicago by equipping them with transferable skills and opening doors to career advancement opportunities. Through the innovative program facilitated by Bright Endeavors, candle-making skills are seamlessly transitioned into valuable pharmacy expertise, offering a pathway for career growth and financial stability for participants.

Transforming Lives Through Skill Transfer

The partnership between TLNA, CVS Health, and New Moms Inc. represents a significant step towards addressing the challenges faced by young mothers, particularly those aged 24 and younger, who often encounter limited resources and face obstacles to accessing stable employment. By leveraging the skills acquired through candle-making, such as inventory management, mathematical proficiency, and quality control, participants are empowered to thrive in the pharmaceutical industry.

From Uncertainty to Hope: A Participant’s Journey

For individuals like Tyjana Alexander, the program has provided a beacon of hope amidst uncertainty. At just 21 years old and expecting her first child, Alexander found herself unsure of her future. However, through the support of New Moms Inc. and the opportunity to transition her skills into pharmacy technician training with CVS Health, she is now pursuing a career path that promises growth and stability for herself and her child.

Breaking the Cycle of Poverty

Statistics provided by CVS Health underscore the urgency of initiatives aimed at supporting young parents. Teen parents and their children are reported to be 73% more likely to face systemic poverty and related challenges. By offering comprehensive training, personal mentorship, and nationally recognized certification, the partnership program not only equips participants with essential skills but also addresses systemic barriers to economic security.

Personalized Support for Career Development

Central to the success of the program is the provision of personalized support and mentorship for each participant. Through the guidance of experienced mentors and the dedication of CVS Health’s manager of workforce initiatives, Viv Harper, young mothers are not only trained as pharmacy technicians but also empowered to envision long-term career trajectories. Harper’s own journey as a young mother underscores the transformative potential of investing in the personal and professional development of marginalized communities.

Empowering Messages of Resilience and Possibility

As participants embark on their journey towards meaningful employment, they are met with messages of resilience and possibility. Viv Harper emphasizes the importance of perseverance and resilience, urging participants to rise above challenges and pursue their aspirations. Through the program, participants are not only equipped with technical skills but also instilled with a sense of agency and determination to create brighter futures for themselves and their families.

Transforming Futures Through Empowerment

The collaboration between TLNA, CVS Health, and New Moms Inc. represents a powerful example of how partnerships can drive meaningful change in communities. By leveraging the strengths of each organization and prioritizing the needs of young mothers, the program not only equips participants with tangible skills but also fosters a sense of empowerment and resilience. As participants like Tyjana Alexander and Viv Harper demonstrate, investing in the potential of marginalized individuals yields transformative outcomes, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.