Aida Meza had a job as a phlebotomist, earning $12 an hour. She felt fulfilled, but making ends meet proved challenging for this single mother. In July 2023, she applied for acceptance into the Medical Laboratory Technology Program at Texas Southmost College. One month later, she received an acceptance letter. Meza felt a sense of excitement and trepidation.
As she prepared to start the program, a barrier appeared along her path. Meza learned her financial aid had been suspended because she had not completed her general studies degree before transitioning into the MLT Program.
“The news felt like a heavy weight on my shoulders, making it hard to focus on my studies,” Meza shared. “But just when I thought all hope was lost, I discovered VIDA.”
VIDA is Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement. Based in Mercedes, VIDA serves residents across the Rio Grande Valley, reversing trajectories of poverty toward paths of prosperity. The nonprofit does this through education, providing financial support for tuition, books, uniforms and equipment. When creating VIDA nearly 30 years ago, members of Valley Interfaith and local business leaders realized that while financial assistance is critical, it’s not enough.
Numerous barriers prevent people living in poverty from rising out of it; stress and anxiety, lack of time management, inexperience with budgeting and poor study habits are but a few. The VIDA model incorporates individual and group counseling for each participant to address and overcome these barriers. Volunteer work offers a way to show gratitude while also developing an awareness of how service benefits a community.
Success Via Support
Meza applied to VIDA and gained acceptance.
“VIDA stepped in at a crucial moment, providing vital support that helped cover part of my tuition,” she said.
While she still faced challenges, Meza felt prepared to meet them.
“I knew that not only was I pursuing my own dreams, but I was also setting an example for my daughters. I wanted them to see that dedication and hard work can open doors to fulfilling careers.”
Meza credits her VIDA career counselor, Felicia Adams, for providing a much-needed support system.
“She has guided me through the process of meeting VIDA’s requirements for continued aid and organized volunteer events that allowed me to give back to the community,” she said. “Felicia’s encouragement has been invaluable, and her belief in my potential keeps me motivated, even on the toughest days.”
Meza is scheduled to graduate in the spring of 2025. She emphasizes her goal goes beyond a new career.
“I’m paving a path for my daughters, showing them that dreams are worth chasing.”
Meza has a lot to celebrate. In addition to her impending graduation, she recently got married. Together, she and her husband share five daughters, ages 12 to 21.
“In the end, this isn’t just my story,” Meza said. “It’s a story of family, perseverance, and hope for a brighter future.