Literacy Services of Wisconsin (LSW) brought more than an education to LaTina and Michelle; it brought them together at a time when they needed a friend the most. They met in a Milwaukee homeless shelter after both had suffered severe personal challenges, including illness, the loss of their homes, and the loss of a child. They needed a new direction to get back on their feet.
Neither LaTina nor Michelle had graduated from high school. They both knew a General Educational Development (GED) degree would open up the future for them.
Both single mothers, LaTina and Michelle were referred to LSW by a social worker. They didn't really know each other but went for the first time together for moral support. As soon as they arrived, they felt immediately at home—"The receptionist made us feel welcome as soon as we walked through the door."
LaTina and Michelle were assessed by staff and tested around the same level—the last year of high school. As they embarked on the GED program together, their friendship blossomed. "We supported and encouraged each other when times got tough." The tutors and staff at LSW became their family. "They saw what we needed and kept encouraging us to come back—and it wasn't just for the free coffee!" The two trudged from the shelter to LSW every day, through snow, rain, and heat.
When the time came for exams, LaTina passed all five at one time. Delighted with her results, LaTina persuaded Michelle to go back and take the one exam she hadn't passed. They started the program together, and they were going to finish together, too.
Both walked the stage as they graduated with their GED, and the future became full of possibilities. After receiving Norman Gill Scholarship awards, both went to college. The two plan to get degrees in Human Services because, "We want to use our education and experiences to set up a shelter to help other women in need—women who have been in similar situations." And we know they will.
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