When Amelia first connected with the Level Up program, she came in eager to build a better future—not just for herself, but for her children and her community. She was already teaching adults in a High School Equivalency (HSE) program and deeply committed to helping others succeed. But behind her dedication was someone who, like so many others, was quietly struggling to make ends meet.

Always Giving, Rarely Asking

A devoted mother and passionate volunteer, Amelia was the kind of person who gave endlessly of herself, rarely pausing to focus on her own needs. She knew she wanted to grow professionally but wasn’t quite sure what path to take. Together with her Level Up Navigator, she explored new possibilities—and discovered a calling she hadn’t fully considered before: becoming a licensed teacher.

A New Path Through Teaching

After some research, Amelia and her Navigator found a unique opportunity through Indiana’s Transition to Teach program. The program allows individuals with a bachelor’s degree—or those close to completing one—to earn a teaching certification within a year. Even better, it aligned perfectly with Amelia’s background and the Level Up program’s criteria.

Level Up helped Amelia enroll in an approved school, and through the Transition to Teach initiative, she was issued an emergency teaching license. The program removed a major financial barrier and allowed her to focus fully on her goals.

A Life-Changing Opportunity

Fast forward just a few months: Amelia was hired by 21st Century Schools. She’s now earning $10 more per hour, has full benefits, and is loving her new role as a teacher. “I have really enjoyed this experience,” she shared. “The tough times felt like a storm I had to stand tall in. But through it all, I’m still standing.”

From Rock Bottom to Rising Up

Not long before her new job began, Amelia hit a particularly low point. During a check-in, she was overwhelmed and tearful, sharing how she felt like she wasn’t enough for her daughter because she had fallen behind on rent. She had been trying so hard to stay afloat and was clinging to hope that enrolling in school would make a difference.

And it did.

With help from Level Up, she was able to catch up on rent, improve her credit score, and walk confidently into a new chapter of her life. When asked if she was okay with her story being shared, Amelia didn’t hesitate—“Absolutely!”

A Reminder of What’s Possible

Amelia’s story is not unlike that of many others. Her journey reminds us that success doesn’t always come easy—but with support, resilience, and belief in a better future, anything is possible.

Programs like Level Up are here to walk alongside those who are ready to rise. And Amelia? She’s proof that even through the hardest storms, you can still stand tall.

When Alexus joined the Level Up program last year, she had one clear goal: to become a Certified Medical Assistant. With determination in her heart, she enrolled in the Medical Career Academy and met all the program’s requirements. On the surface, her story seemed straightforward—a driven individual utilizing educational support to pursue a career. But beneath the surface was a remarkable tale of resilience, compassion, and unwavering strength.

Facing Life’s Challenges with Grace

During her time in the program, Alexus was more than just a student—she was the sole caretaker for her mother, who was battling terminal cancer. Balancing work, school, and the emotional toll of caregiving would overwhelm most, but Alexus faced each day with determination and grace, never once complaining or backing down.

Despite her best efforts, she did not pass her first National Healthcareer Association (NHA) exam. It was a disappointing setback, but Alexus refused to give up. Tragically, shortly after this, she lost her mother. Many would have understandably stepped away under such circumstances, but not Alexus.

Turning Setbacks into Triumphs

With incredible perseverance, Alexus retook the NHA exam—and passed. Her hard work paid off when she secured a new job with nearly a $3 per hour pay increase—one she truly loves. With this career milestone, she also gained employer-sponsored health insurance and full benefits, providing her with long-term financial stability.

But her success didn’t stop there. Through the Level Up program’s financial coaching, Alexus raised her credit score and began making more informed financial decisions, setting herself on a path toward greater independence and security.

A Grateful Heart

At the conclusion of her journey with Level Up, Alexus expressed her heartfelt gratitude, saying:
“Thank you so much!! I appreciate you guys as well because without you, I would not be here.”

A Story of Strength and Hope

Alexus’ journey is a powerful reminder of the transformational impact of programs like Level Up. With support, guidance, and her own unwavering spirit, she overcame profound challenges and emerged stronger—proving that with the right tools and determination, anything is possible.