Another Milestone Achieved

Hello Friend,

Michael here again. From its conception over 9 years ago, one of the primary objectives of the Reina’s Hope program has been to prepare our girls to launch into life successfully, confidently, and independently.

But in early July, when our program director, Estefania, announced to our two high schoolers, Miriam and Flori, that it was time for them to look for their first summer job, even I was a bit nervous.

Call me an overprotective "Tio" (Uncle), but my first thought was, "Seriously? Do you think they’re ready?"

Then the logical side of my brain (finally) kicked in and I realized 2 things: First, they are nearly 19 and 18 years old, and second, this is exactly what they need in order to accomplish that primary objective.

So—Miriam, our 19-year-old who aspires to be a veterinarian, landed a job (with a little inside help) at Estefania’s father’s Veterinary Hospital. They did require her to undergo an interview, which seemed to elicit an appropriate amount of anxiety. But in the end, she was hired on, albeit at the bottom of the pecking order, cleaning animal cages and caring for the boarded animals. Just the right kind of first job experience everyone should undergo!

To her credit—and my admiration—she is up three days a week at about 5:30 a.m. to be ready for her 90-minute commute on the public transportation system to get to the hospital on time. She puts in her 4-5 hours of work and then jumps back on the transport to return to Las Margaritas, where she picks up her duties here: caring for her room, doing laundry, and helping prepare dinner with the other girls.

It may have been just a bit too easy for her to land that first job, but she is clearly learning many valuable life lessons, like planning ahead and preparing meals and bus fare before leaving at 7:00 a.m., being consistent and punctual, and accepting direction (and maybe even criticism) from coworkers and supervisors. Each is an important step in developing good character.

Although Miriam has endured a difficult and often traumatic childhood, it is encouraging to see her begin to adapt to the challenges and responsibilities of adulthood. She certainly has many other obstacles to overcome, but we are encouraged by her progress.

Thank you, to each of you who help make these opportunities possible—and for celebrating with us another milestone in the growth and preparation of the girls we serve.

Until they all come HOME,