Today, Desiree has stable housing, a career in healthcare, and a clear path toward becoming a nurse. Just one year ago, she was living out of her car.
After being laid off unexpectedly, Desiree did everything she could to survive while supporting her younger sibling—working multiple jobs, skipping meals to cover expenses, and relying on a gym to shower. Like many of the individuals Opportunity Junction serves, her challenges were not new. She had experienced housing instability on and off throughout her life, with little access to consistent support or opportunity.
Despite everything, Desiree remained determined. She spent every day at the Antioch library searching for opportunities to go back to school and reenter the workforce. That’s when she came across Opportunity Junction’s flyer.
Through Opportunity Junction’s Medical Assistant program, Desiree gained more than job training—she found a community that saw her potential and supported her every step of the way. With hands-on instruction, career coaching, and consistent encouragement, she was able to persist through significant barriers, including homelessness, food insecurity, and the emotional toll of starting over.
At one point, Desiree was attending classes while living in her car during the cold, rainy season, often relying on the program’s daily meal as her only source of food. “I was not seeing results right away and I was feeling really discouraged,” she shared. Like many participants, the challenge wasn’t just learning new skills—it was having the stability and support to keep going, which is what sets Opportunity Junction apart.
Over time, Desiree realized she didn’t have to do it alone.
With guidance from instructors like Serena and the support of a strong peer community, she stayed the course. “Serena made me feel like a person with a purpose,” Desiree shared. Getting to know her classmates helped her realize she was not alone in her struggles. She completed the program, built confidence, and developed the professional skills needed to succeed in a high-demand field.
After graduating, Desiree was hired by her externship partner and quickly transitioned into the healthcare workforce. Within a year, she secured stable housing and is now on a clear pathway to becoming a nurse.
Today, Desiree is not only self-sufficient—she is building a career, contributing to her community, and giving back through patient care. Her favorite part of the job is the deep sense of purpose she finds in working closely with patients and their families. She looks forward to advancing her career, with the goal of working in the ER or pediatrics.
“Opportunity Junction changed the course of my life. I have purpose, and there is so much more ahead of me.”
Desiree also shared her deep gratitude for the Opportunity Junction team, noting that “the strengths of the staff work seamlessly together to create an environment where students feel seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.” She encourages others to apply for the program and take the next step.
