When Karla first heard about NVFS' Training Futures program, she was juggling multiple part-time jobs, raising four children on her own, and searching for a path forward after surviving domestic violence.
"I'm a single mother of four," she shared. "I worked so hard but still couldn't provide the life I wanted for my children. I knew I needed to find a new path."
Originally from Bolivia, Karla came to the United States more than 20 years ago. She had built a life here — finished high school, raised a family, worked as a hairdresser and assistant cosmetology instructor. But when her marriage ended, she found herself starting over, alone, in a country that sometimes still felt unfamiliar. "I was alone here. I needed stability — for me, and for my children."
She discovered Training Futures through a local women's center and signed up, nervous but hopeful. "I was excited, but I was also shy and scared. My English wasn't strong and I didn't have office experience. I didn't even know how to turn on a computer — I was afraid I might break it."
From the first day, something shifted. Training Futures helped Karla strengthen her English, develop professional communication skills, and build confidence in business and computer fundamentals. But the deepest transformation was internal. "The most important thing I learned was to believe in myself. I realized I am capable and intelligent. I just needed the chance."
The program also offered community. Karla remembers a powerful moment when she shared a deeply personal story during a class presentation. "I cried while I told it. But that day changed everything. We didn't just see each other as classmates anymore — we became friends. We supported each other."
With the program's support, Karla explored new career paths and found an unexpected fit: banking. Today, she works as a Universal Banker — handling transactions, supporting customers, and building expertise she never imagined she would have.
That career didn't just change her professional life. It changed everything. "We were homeless for about five months. After I got the job, I was able to rent an apartment and give my kids a home again. They're happy — and that means everything to me."
Now, Karla has a steady schedule, time with her children, and the stability she once feared she might never find. "When my kids go to school, I go to work. I'm home when they're home. I can plan things with them. I can be present."
She still stays in touch with her Training Futures cohort, celebrating each other's milestones. "We all started again — together. We continue supporting each other."
"It was the beginning of a new life for my family and me. I found skills, confidence, and community. I am not alone anymore."
Karla's journey reflects the power of opportunity, resilience, and community — and the difference that programs like Training Futures make every single day. Support NVFS and help more neighbors like Karla build the life they deserve.
