When Donna Jo Pena applied to Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement in late 2021, it wasn’t déjà vu that came over her. Rather, she experienced actual memories from 2004-2005 when VIDA played a significant role in helping her become a licensed vocational nurse.
VIDA, a nonprofit organization serving the Rio Grande Valley for over 25 years, provides financial assistance and support services, removing the barriers that often prevent Valley residents from earning a certificate or degree. Since VIDA’s inception, its staff and Board have realized that while financial assistance with tuition is significant, this only relieves one of the barriers students face. Therefore, in addition to help with tuition, books, transportation, and required equipment, VIDA provides individual and group counseling to help students address the stressors that can actually create the greatest barriers.
For VIDA, the goal is not the completion of the certificate or degree, nor is it getting a high-skill, high-demand jobs with competitive compensation. For VIDA, the goal is job retention and advancement.
Unemployed back in 2004, Pena applied to VIDA to help her with the costs associated with the Vocational Nursing Program at South Texas College.
“VIDA was a huge financial help for me during my VN Program,” Pena said.
She completed the program in 2005 and passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses, earning her the title of LVN. As a first-generation college student, Pena faced additional barriers, but VIDA staff always seemed to be there to help her face and overcome them.
Seventeen years later, Pena’s commitment to the field of nursing had only intensified, so she decided to return to school to earn her Associate Degree Nursing. Knowing what a difference VIDA made for her in the past, Pena turned to the program again.
“They helped me again, financially, which has been a huge stress reliever for me,” Pena said. All of the additional support VIDA provides relieved her stress even more.
Pena graduated from STC in December 2022 with her ADN and passed the NCLEX-RN, making her an official registered nurse. She is now earning nearly $35 an hour.
When Pena reflects on her success, it isn’t déjà vu but déjà vécu — already experienced — that comes to mind. Because she had already experienced the wraparound services of VIDA, she knew exactly where to turn.
“I am grateful to VIDA and my counselor, San Juanita Sanchez. This program has honestly had a huge impact as to why I have made it this far,” Pena said.