McAllen resident Rachel Tauli Batallang works as a patient sitter, a health-care worker with specialized training to intently monitor and assist patients requiring close supervision.
When she started in this position, Batallang earned $9.30 an hour; however, her pay has increased to $12.07 per hour. Batallang enjoys this job but longed to be a nurse.
Former classmates of Battalang told her about the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement. This Mercedes-based nonprofit has helped Rio Grande Valley residents change the trajectory of their lives, through education, for nearly 30 years. The brainchild of leaders from Valley Interfaith and the business sector, VIDA offers a complete program model, consisting of financial assistance; individual and group counseling; soft-skills training in financial management, job applications and interviewing skills, study skills and a number of other related topics.
VIDA participants also have opportunities to perform community service as a way of showing their gratitude to the community and the donors that make the program possible.
Batallang applied for VIDA and gained acceptance in October 2023. She enrolled in the Vocational Nursing Program at South Texas College and graduated in July 2024.
“Before I began the program, I faced significant worries and anxiety about funding my education,” Battalang said. “Compounding my concerns, my parents were undergoing surgeries, which added to the stress of managing family finances and bills. VIDA became a crucial support system for me during this time.”
VIDA provided Battalang with financial assistance, helping her with tuition, books and required uniforms. She took advantage of the VIDA workshops, developing skills in financial literacy and learning about hospitals in the region and potential job opportunities. Battalang also participated in community service activities.
“The volunteering opportunities I engaged in allowed me to connect with — and serve — our community, further enriching my experience,” she said.
In September 2024, Batallang passed the NCLEX-PN, the national exam one must pass to become a licensed vocational nurse. Battalang continues to work as a patient sitter as she pursues her next educational goal.
“Looking ahead, my goals include earning my associate and bachelor’s degrees in nursing so I can ultimately become a registered nurse. I am excited about the opportunities that await me in this field.”
This month, Batallang started the Associate Degree in Nursing Program at STC. Upon completion of the program and the national licensing exam for RNs, Batallang will reach this goal. According to Zip Recruiter, the average hourly pay for an RN in Texas is $39.36 an hour, as of December 2024.
“I cannot express enough gratitude for the support I received from VIDA,” Batallang explained. “They provided not just financial assistance but also moral support, life skills and valuable social connections.” She explained that her financial worries, in the past, had affected her academic achievement. When VIDA removed this burden, academic success followed.
“I want to extend a special thanks to my VIDA counselors — San Juanita Sanchez, Marevelyn Salvador and Laurie Cruz — for always encouraging me to do my best,” Batallang said. “Their belief in me was essential during challenging times, reminding me that every little step I took toward my goals was meaningful progress. As I continue on this journey, I am filled with hope and determination. With the support of VIDA and my own dedication, I know I can achieve my dreams.”