Success Story Spotlight: Allyson W.

Allyson (Ally) W. is a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at The Pavilions in Traverse City, Michigan. She first heard about the H-CAP Nursing Home Workforce Stabilization program from a classmate, who encouraged her to reach out to an H-CAP program coordinator. At the time, Ally was navigating a major life transition and searching for a stable career with real opportunities.

Through an earn-and-learn approach that pairs CNA training with financial assistance, the program offered the wraparound supports that made pursuing a new career possible.

"I had recently gone through a divorce and was raising my children as a single mom," Ally said. "I wanted a job with better opportunities, and the program gave me the support I needed to make that change and pursue healthcare. It helped me get the new start I really needed."

That financial assistance changed what Ally could focus on. "It took a lot of stress off my shoulders during a difficult time," she said. "As a single mom, it allowed me to focus on my education and use my money for moving expenses, bills, and caring for my children."

The program helped Ally complete her training and land a role as a CNA. "It gave me the confidence and support to pursue a better future for myself and my children," she said.

"It helped me start a rewarding healthcare career and inspired me to continue growing professionally," Ally reflects.

Her goal now is to build experience as a CNA and keep advancing in the field.

For others considering the same path, Ally's advice is direct: "Take the opportunity and don't be afraid to ask for help. The program was one of the best things that happened to me, and the support I received made a huge difference in my life and my family's future."

Ally's story reflects what becomes possible when direct care workers have access to paid, earn-and-learn training and the wraparound supports that help them stay in the workforce, benefits that the care system still denies most of its workers.

Congratulations, Ally! We can't wait to see what you do next.