Rachel

Rachel’s* Fresh Start story begins in 2017 in a moment of desperation. A young, newly single mother, Rachel was escaping an abusive relationship and in need of direction and support.

“I knew I needed legal help, but I didn’t know what my first step should be,” says Rachel, “When I first came across Fresh Start, I noticed the vast array of workshops, classes, and offerings that were provided, so I signed up.”

At Fresh Start, Rachel was able to receive the support she needed to get her footing and move forward in her journey to self-sufficiency. With access to Family Law Support services, social work, a support group, and financial literacy courses, she was able to set goals, achieve stability, and regain control of her life.

“After a few months, I felt more in control and equipped to manage my daily life,” says Rachel. But her journey with Fresh Start didn’t stop there.

“Years later, I started to notice that I was a supportive person to my family and friends, but that something in my own life was missing. I had some of my own dreams and goals, but I spent more time helping others achieve theirs than I did pursuing mine,” Rachel reflects.

“I realized I needed more champions in my life! I remembered how the women that I interacted with at Fresh Start made me feel, and I decided to check back in to see what was offered.”

Rachel got involved in the Impact Program and cites it as a key element in her current success.

“I love [the Impact Program] so much because it drives me forward and supports me in whatever I need at the time. Whether it’s a financial, professional, educational, or personal goal, the Impact Program has the resources to help me navigate along the way.”

Since reengaging with Fresh Start, Rachel has improved her resume, been paired with a mentor, worked on her business plan, and enhanced her interpersonal relationship skills. She was also recently accepted into the Small Business Start-Up program in partnership with Paradise Valley Community College and was awarded the Florine F. Jackson scholarship to fund her participation. “I am excited about this opportunity because I will receive actual college credits from the program,” she says.

“Before I was involved with Fresh Start, I was living a ‘good’ life, but now I see myself as a thriving individual who is well on her way to self-sufficiency!”, Rachel notes.

“My dreams are more tangible and I am fulfilling my goals. Not only did I get the ‘fresh start’ I needed,” she shares with a laugh, “but now I know I have the skills and support to ‘stay fresh.’”

Rachel’s story is an example of Fresh Start’s vision and mission in action: creating unlimited opportunities for women by providing them with the access and resources they need to achieve self-sufficiency and use their strength to thrive.