|
A Single Mother Lets Herself WIN
 After
an abusive marriage,
a mother of three finds her own success.
When Alicia was
getting married at the young age of 16, she had no idea that in just a
few years, her marriage and life would drastically change.
About three
years and three children later, Alicia’s once loving and devoted husband
became addicted to drugs and alcohol. He began cheating on Alicia and
physically abusing her, even in front of their own children.
Seeking Change
After two years
of fighting for her marriage, Alicia knew she had to make a change to
protect herself and her children.
Alicia sought
additional resources for her family and moved in with her grand-father.
When Alicia was
referred to the Wichita Women’s Initiative Network (WIN), she had
recently completed her GED and had begun the divorce process.
WIN, which began
receiving United Way funding in May 2007, offers a supportive
environment for women in transition. The program provides social,
educational and general life skills that allow them to regain job
security in today’s work force. WIN focuses on the mental, emotional,
social and spiritual aspects of life – so that true healing may take
place from poverty and abuse.
“I was hesitant
at first to join WIN because I wasn’t sure I could juggle the emotional
turmoil with the divorce and caring for my kids,” said Alicia.
Finding Success
However, after
experiencing WIN first hand, Alicia admits she will always be grateful.
“WIN gives you a
chance to succeed at what you want to do,” said Alicia. “They truly want
to help you.”
Program
participants are required to attend school and work part time for WIN.
During this program, Alicia was able to pursue her passion at
cosmetology school while working to support her family and receiving
counseling.
“They helped me
stand on my own two feet and be an example for my kids,” said Alicia. “I
want my kids to look at me with respect and honor and know that it’s
okay to get help if you need it.”
Alicia
recognizes WIN as a positive change in her life.
“I’ve come a long way and am very happy with where my life is now,”
said Alicia. “The program does what it’s called. It helps you win.”
Article by Stacy Gramza
See column at right to find out
more about how your support of United Way of the
Plains is helping our community. More Stories:
click here. |
|
Meeting Basic Needs
Issue: Women coming out of abusive
relationships and poverty need to be self-sufficient and able to support
their families.
United Way Actions: United Way helps fund the
Wichita Women’s Initiative Network, which provides counseling, job
skills, schooling, and emotional support.
Results: Women are able to get the jobs they
want and have the strength to care for their families.
United Way impacts issues that matter:
For more information:
See other programs funded in the above impact areas by clicking above. |
