Our Stories
Nobody knows their stories better than the people who live them. And nobody can tell them better. By sharing their stories, CWU program participants help others understand the challenges low-income women face and how they have learned to prevail.
Lynette’s Story
“I came to Crittenton Woman’s Union to join the Woman to Woman Program to learn about computers and use the resources available to find employment. Being a single mother is a struggle. But I wanted to show my daughter that, even though I am a single parent, I am determined to do what it takes to make our living situation comfortable.”… Hear Lynette’s Story Read Lynette’s Story
Heidi's Story
“In 1999, I met Cyriaque Bouazock, a dancer, acrobat, visual artist and musician from Gabon, a small country in Equatorial Africa. He was a friend and colleague of some friends of mine, professional clowns who worked in Africa for Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Circus. Cyriaque had come to the United States two years earlier, with his acrobatic troupe, Les Etoiles du Cirque de L’Equateur (the Stars of the Circus of the Equator), to work for Ringling Brothers. At the time I met him, I could never have imagined how profoundly the relationship that developed between us would affect the course of my life, as well as my world view”... Hear Heidi's Story Read Heidi's Story
Debra's Story
“I come from a family of ten (seven sisters and two brothers). I am number four on the list. When I was about thirteen or fourteen, my mother got sick. She was misdiagnosed for the next fifteen years before it was finally determined she was bipolar. With six younger ones at home, I decided to leave. By then my father had already left as well. I started hanging out with the fun crowd, partying and getting high. Back then the drug of choice was anything you got your hands on”… Hear Debra's Story Read Debra's Story
Ashyia's Story
“My name is Ashyia, originated from Japan, meaning rich in worth. I have lived up to this but have not achieved capacity. I must further my journey. I am rich in life, I am rich in love. I am rich in humor. I am rich in strength. I am rich in hope. I am rich in peace. The inside of me is beauty. Self worth is what I have and all these assets are what I value. I am: a child of god. I’m African. I’m a mom of a humble and excited child. I’m sensitive. I’m a survivor, I am thankful for love, education, support, freedom, and sanity.” … Hear Ashyia's Story Read Ashyia's Story
Pattiann's Story
“Becoming part of the Career Family Opportunity program has changed my life and my son’s life. When I joined CFO, I had been laid off from a dead-end job and didn’t have the skills to get a good one. I was frustrated and unhappy and didn’t know how to make my life better.” …
