Against All Odds

When Paeton and Madilyn visited GST Michigan Works!, they were both facing significant life changes. Paeton had left high school after 9th grade and Madilyn was expecting their first child when she enrolled in our program. Together, they were determined to build a strong foundation for their growing family.

Despite the challenges of pregnancy, Madilyn worked tirelessly to earn her Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification. Six weeks after welcoming their baby, she began her new career as a medical assistant at Hills & Dales Orthopedic Clinic. Paeton, meanwhile, took his first steps toward a stable future by enrolling in a GED program through the Family Literacy Center (FLC). He also completed his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training through Thumb CDL.

Today, both Madilyn and Paeton are working full-time and have seen a substantial increase in their earning potential, allowing them to provide more for their family. Madilyn’s role as a medical assistant offers a competitive wage at Hills & Dales, while Paeton has begun a promising new career with Pandos Recycling, where he’s focused on balancing his job and family responsibilities. He plans to continue his education in the future.

Reflecting on her experience, Madilyn shared, “GST Michigan Works! helped me and my family in so many ways. They believed in our potential and provided the support needed to turn our dreams into reality.”

Their story is a testament to what can be achieved with hard work, dedication, and a strong support system.