At just 15, Jenifer became a mother and left high school, unsure how to balance her baby’s needs with her own future. A year later, she found hope through Identity’s free GED program at the UpCounty Youth Opportunity Center. With encouragement from staff and support from her family, Jenifer dove in determined to finish fast. She passed her first GED test in science within a month. Then, her father passed away suddenly. Identity helped her get a passport for her son so they could attend the funeral. Jenifer returned with renewed focus, passing two more exams and, after a second try, conquering math—her toughest subject. “I studied like crazy.” In what typically takes 18 months, Jenifer earned her diploma at age 17 in just four months. Identity also helped her get CPR certification and a driver’s license. Now employed and thriving, she proudly brought her son to watch her walk the stage at Identity’s graduation ceremony. |
