What the data shows

“Sometimes all it takes is a community, a program, a group of people who believe in change, and that same group believing in you.”

After losing both her parents, Elizabeth moved to McMinnville as a single mom and was working at Waffle House when she joined Empower's pilot program. Empower covered a college course she couldn't afford and helped her build on her own lived experience. She went on to complete her Bachelor's in Human Services and graduate on the Honor Roll — and was hired by Empower to help other families find the same path she did.

“I wanted to show my kids that they can do anything they set their minds to, even though we don't have much.”

Kristy had been a CNA for years and went back to school to get her nursing degree at TCAT. With five kids at home, financial issues and hour cuts made it rough — but financial aid and Empower's support carried her through. She's now a licensed nurse starting as an LPN, changing her family's trajectory for good.

Dwinn was a single mother earning $960 a month when she enrolled. She drove over 40 miles each way to attend Circles meetings because none were available in her county. When her car broke down during training, she found another way to get there. She completed 10 courses with Tennessee Tech, earned her QuickBooks certification, and will exit the program earning $2,764 a month.

“The most important personal development is realizing my worth and capabilities.”

As a single mom working constantly just to make ends meet, Rebecca described feeling like she was always chasing her tail. Her Navigator pushed her out of her comfort zone. She earned her state certification as a Registered Behavioral Technician and no longer uses food stamps or heat assistance. She has money in savings for the first time.

Jessica filed bankruptcy feeling like she had no choice. She couldn't rent because of her credit. Her husband was working two jobs while she worked nights. Through Empower, she learned to budget, network, and build toward stability. Last month, Jessica and her family purchased a home.

“She showed us there was light at the end of the tunnel by helping us organize our finances and connect us with resources we didn't know existed.”

They were drowning in debt and managing money poorly. With a young son and another on the way, they knew something had to change. Their Navigator helped them break bad spending habits and shop smart instead of convenient. They've now nearly eliminated their debt and exceeded 225% of the federal poverty level.

Over 14 years ago, Kathryn set a goal of getting her nursing degree. As a single mother working as a CNA, the timing was never right. When she finally enrolled and was told she needed $4,600 to graduate, she called her Navigator in a panic. Empower and UC Workforce covered the gap. In a few short weeks, she'll be earning more money as a Registered Nurse than she ever has.

Kenzie's mother died when she was young. She was raised by her grandmother and became a senior in high school with an 8-month-old son. She started at Dollar General and learned fast — if you work hard and show up, you move up. Today she has a career with advancement potential, has purchased a storage building, and is saving for a home for her and her son.