When friends of Weslaco resident Clarissa Magaña told her about the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement, her goal suddenly seemed more viable. Acceptance into VIDA would allow her to obtain the degree she always wanted. Earning an associate degree in nursing would also be an important lesson for this single mother’s six children.

Already a licensed vocational nurse, Magaña longed to return to school to become a registered nurse. 

“I had always wanted to one day become an RN to have more job opportunities and more pay,” she said.

In 2022, Magaña felt the time was right. She gained acceptance into the ADN program at South Texas College and VIDA.

For nearly 30 years, VIDA has provided financial assistance, individual and group counseling, soft skills training, and other comprehensive services to unemployed and underemployed residents of the Rio Grande Valley ready to pursue a degree or certificate in a high-paying, high-demand field. To thank the communities that have kept the nonprofit thriving for almost three decades, VIDA participants engage in a wide range of community service activities.

Providing Creates a Provider

Magaña graduated in December 2023, studied intently for the National Council Licensure Examination for registered nurses and passed. She reached her goal of becoming an RN.

“VIDA made it possible for me to attend school, financially,” Magaña said. “The ADN Program at STC is a fast-paced and time-consuming program that made it impossible for me to work and provide for my children. Let me not forget the support I received from my counselor, Kathia Martinez, checking up on me to see how I was doing in my classes — and mentally.”

Magaña works for Aveanna Healthcare, putting her knowledge to use serving home-health patients. The significant increase in pay has made the intensity of the ADN Program well worth it.

“I will forever be grateful for all the support I received from VIDA,” Magaña said. “Now, with this degree, I will be able to provide more for my children.”

To learn more about VIDA, visit vidacareers.org.