Spring Appeal Cont’d: Meet Ginny

“Whewww do I have history here! I knew about UTEC since 2008 when it was just a drop-in center. A little after I had a record of truancy and ended up doing community service at UTEC. After I served my hours I would still drop by throughout the years until I became a mom in 2013. I would work at Target from 4 – 9 a.m. and walk 25 minutes to Middlesex Community College for class from 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. every day. I managed to pass 4 subjects within 4 months before I was reintroduced to the new, updated UTEC with workforce development and educational opportunities. I was enrolled officially from 2014 – 2016.

While I was attending UTEC, I knew it was a great opportunity for me. I knew what I wanted and I just went for it. Whatever they had to offer, I was on the go. So many resources and classes to take and achieve, and the chance to earn certifications like Servsafe. I even got my permit and then my license through this process, and also gained people skills and advanced my multitasking skills in the kitchen.

Not only did I get to work on myself and push harder for knowledge at UTEC, but the best support system I ever had when it came to helping my kid was with their childcare and food security program.  

I got to work on myself and push harder for knowledge at UTEC. When it came to helping my kid, the best support I ever had was from their childcare and food security program.

I got a random call after having my 3rd child. My mentor Will offered me the opportunity to work in the UTEC Cafe as an Assistant Manager. Fast forward 7 years later, I am currently the Culinary Enterprise Lead. I never would’ve thought I would have gotten this far!”

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Ginny’s story highlights the powerful impact of our programs, programs that we rely on your support to keep free of charge to risk-proven young adults in the Merrimack Valley.