In his article, “Omne Trium Perfectum: Three May really be the charm,” in the July/August 2019 issue of Modern Aesthetics, Dr. Steve Dayan wrote, “In Kabbala philosophy, the number three signifies harmony. To the Chinese, the number three is considered lucky. And in Christian lore, the number three represents divine wholeness, completeness, and perfection, hence the Latin phrase Omne Trium Perfectum: everything that is three is perfect.”
For Harlingen resident Sergio Rodriguez Jr., three holds great significance because he is a triplet, along with brothers Joshua and Matthew. Though he had built-in best friends, Rodriguez’ life has had its heartbreaks. At a young age, the brothers lost their mom.
“Everything I do,” Rodriguez said, “is to make her proud.”
Working at Stefano’s Brooklyn Pizza, one of Harlingen’s most popular eateries, Rodriguez was earning $9 an hour, but he had aspirations of having a career that would allow him to support himself and have extra income. Then a friend told him about VIDA.
Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement, based in Mercedes and serving the entire Rio Grande Valley, opened its doors more than 25 years ago with a mission of helping break down the barriers that have traditionally prevented Valley residents from earning certificates and degrees in high-paying, high-demand, high-skill jobs. Through financial assistance and structured support and guidance, VIDA participants can leave a life of poverty and live a life of self-sufficiency and economic success.
Rodriguez applied and earned acceptance into VIDA, choosing to pursue a Diesel Technology Associate of Applied Science degree at South Texas College – Technology Campus in McAllen.
“With gas prices being the way they are,” Rodriguez said, “the commute from Harlingen to McAllen every day started to take a toll.” In addition to helping with tuition and books, VIDA provides assistance with expenses like transportation. The nonprofit organization also helped Rodriguez purchase the tools he needed for the program, relieving the financial burdens and stress that would otherwise have prevented him from fulfilling his aspirations.
VIDA provided its wraparound services to Rodriguez throughout the two-year diesel-technology program. This program covers the repair of diesel engines, electrical and electronic control systems, hydraulic systems, air brakes, suspension, and steering, as well as troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures.
Rodriguez graduated in May, surely making his mother proud of her first-generation college graduate. Upon graduating, he accepted a Diesel Tech II position with Parker Automotive in Harlingen earning $25 per hour, nearly three times what he earned before completing his degree.
Now, Rodriguez has a new job, a new truck and more.
“A lot of doors have opened, and I’m only starting,” he said.
Without Joshua and Matthew, and the rest of his family, Rodriguez said he couldn’t have done it. He also expressed sincere gratitude to VIDA.
“They help students reach their goals and dreams,” he shared. “Everyone has a chance with VIDA supporting them.”