Success Story
Education Advancement
Sharing Jailene’s story:
“My name is Jailene. This is my son Zion. I’m 23 years old. During my journey of returning back to school, I faced many challenging situations. I had ended up in and out of homes not knowing where my child and I would sleep the next day. I always wanted to continue my education. I just didn’t know where to start. Working part-time as a driver was the only way I supported the family and I was nearly homeless.
Currently I am studying a certificate program in Cyber Security at Cambridge College in Boston. The opportunity to connect with Fenway CDC helped me make hard decisions whether to work, to study, or which bills to pay. During some of the darkest moments of my life, I called Fenway CDC and their staff welcomed me to their office to have a conversation. They gave me advice and assistance on ways to tackle life problems. Through their food access program, I receive free nutritious food.
My dream is to be a business owner and successfully raise my son to be a healthy and happy person. Thanks to Fenway CDC’s IT/Tech program, I received career counseling, support services, and a $2,000 education stipend.” –
Fenway CDC’s 2024 Career Fair
(photo from left to right: Steven Farrell – Fenway CDC Executive Director and Dwight – a resident)
Sharing Dwight’s story:
“I found the career fair experience incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about handing out resumes—it’s about making real connections. When an employer can put a face, a conversation, and a memory to a résumé, it’s almost like having ten interviews back-to-back! I love the energy and potential in these moments. My goal is to improve the quality of life for everyone I work with, and I plan to be a meaningful contributor wherever I go.”
Education Advancement
Sharing Tom’s story:
“All through my years at Northeastern University, the path to graduation has been very tough, but with Fenway CDC”s continuous help, I have managed to overcome every difficulty and become even stronger than I was before. The tuition fees seemed to be an unattainable barrier to me. As a student, the normal stress of finances was always my headache, and it was even potential to make me give up on getting a degree.
The situation changed when Fenway CDC helped me obtain a $2000 stipend through a grant program. This help was a godsend for me, it enabled me to buy the necessary books and little by little to pay off my tuition fees. Having this responsibility removed, I could concentrate on my studies completely, knowing that I had the help of others that I needed to be successful.
Now, I am on the verge of graduation with only 12 credits to go. The expedition was far from a walk in the park, but every problem I faced was proof of my strength and tenacity. Fenway CDC has been by my side, not only with financial help but also with useful check-in progress updates and career counseling. Their guidance has been the cornerstone of my life, helping me overcome obstacles and focus on my goals.
As I now see the future, I am grateful for the chances Fenway CDC has given me. Their support has not only assisted me in the final stage of my academic journey but also has given me the courage and the determination to follow my dream after graduation. I am grateful to Fenway CDC for having faith in me and making my dreams come true.”
