This is Jessie's story in her own words: 

The long hard look for secure employment made it was evident that I required more formal education. However, the thought of going back to school was frightening.

My age and personal life left me insecure in my emotional and financial resources. That was before I was referred to the YMCA Finish Line Program.

At the YMCA I was greeted with warm smiles before I was introduced to my counsellor, Susanne.  She carefully explained what Finish line was about. I continued to meet with Susanne once a week. Together we selected a school that could provide a diploma in my field in a reasonable time period.

Before I came the YMCA, my husband announced he wanted to separate which would leave me unemployed and undereducated.  Susanne proved to be someone I could rely on. Her encouragement and support came without judgement.

Today I am a confident woman pursuing a diploma as a Social Service Worker. I was accepted into a 1-year Social Service Worker program at Medix School and recently was accepted to do my placement with the Victim Services of Toronto.

My life has been empowered with the knowledge of my own capabilities.