May Young Adult Highlight: Meet Jaiden!
Jaiden (she/her) has been an engaged Connected Lane County community member since joining the Navigate Program in July of 2022. Jaiden has faced challenges and barriers to employment and has demonstrated significant professional and personal growth throughout her time with us.
To learn more about her story, read her interview below!
What Connected Lane County events or experiences have you participated in?
“I’ve had the pleasure of participating in multiple events and experiences! Through the help and opportunities provided by Connected Lane County, I took a Youth Support Specialist training course in early February. After that, I took a CNA 1 class that began in the middle of February of this year. I took my state board exams at the end of March; I passed all my exams and am now a certified nursing assistant!
I have also had the opportunity to participate in Connected Lane County’s fundraising events. Currently, I am doing an internship at HIV Alliance coordinated by Connected Lane County, which I am LOVING! I also begin a phlebotomy course at the end of May! My resource navigator, Sean, introduced me to these programs and experiences. As for my upcoming phlebotomy classes, I researched and found the class myself, and with Sean’s help and the team’s support, I am getting to take that course. The Connected Lane County team extended the other opportunities. Because of the support I receive, I feel very confident and motivated to continue pursuing my career goals and exploring other careers with less stress or hurry,” said Jaiden.
Please share a bit about each Connected Lane County experience you participated in. What were the highlights for you?
“For starters, the YSS training equipped me with valuable skills and insights into supporting young individuals through my lived experiences. I learned about effective communication, trauma-informed care, active listening, and building trust and rapport with the youth I would potentially serve in the future. While taking the CNA 1 class, I was provided with comprehensive training and education in patient care, learning the technical skills, the importance of empathy and compassion in caregiving, and ethical considerations. The highlight of the experience was the hands-on training at the clinical site, where I had the opportunity to interact directly with residents in the long-term care facility and provide them with comfort and support.
The CNA classes provided me with the foundational knowledge and practical skills essential if I were to go into a career in healthcare. Doing internships is a glimpse into the professional world, which has been so important in my exploration of careers. Starting the internship at HIVA was a mix of excitement and nerves, but I have learned a lot! I absolutely love going on outreach with the team and interacting with our community members. The best part? That I’m making real contributions that matter, even if I am just an intern,” said Jaiden.
Have these Connected Lane County experiences impacted your future educational or career goals? If yes, can you share more?
“Absolutely, participating in Connected Lane County experiences has impacted my future educational and career goals in such a positive way. Through these experiences, I gained valuable skills, insights, and practical knowledge that I would not have been able to achieve had I not taken part in the opportunities I was given. I have gotten to explore all sorts of career fields and will continue to explore more until I find a career I can see myself pursuing forever. Overall, Connected Lane County experiences, classes, and trainings have been instrumental in guiding me towards my future educational and career goals,” said Jaiden.
How did you find Connected Lane County, and what made you stay for additional experiences?
“I discovered Connected Lane County through other youth community resources like 15th Night, where I met Jenna Ely, who was an amazing support through that program, and then she introduced me to Sean, my resource navigator here at Connected Lane County, where I became involved in the services and opportunities this program had to offer. What kept me engaged for more experiences was the genuine support and guidance I received from my resource navigator and the other Connected Lane County team members. Their encouragement and mentorship were essential in encouraging me to explore further opportunities and experiences. They have helped motivate me to do better for my future self in so many ways,” said Jaiden.
What are your future career or educational goals?
“While I’m still exploring my options, one career path that particularly interests me is becoming a community health worker. The idea of actively contributing to the well-being of my community resonates deeply with me. I envision myself playing a role in promoting health education, providing support services, and advocating for the needs of vulnerable populations. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about the idea of working directly with people, encouraging them to lead healthier and happier lives. So, while I’m keeping an open mind and exploring different possibilities, the potential of becoming a community health worker holds a special place in my future ambitions,” said Jaiden.
Is there anything else you want to share?
“Absolutely! I’d love to express my gratitude and excitement for the opportunities ahead. I’m incredibly thankful for the support and resources provided by Connected Lane County. It’s truly motivating to be a part of a program that believes in my potential and is invested in my growth. I’m excited about the journey ahead and eager to continue learning and making a positive impact in my community,” said Jaiden.
According to her resource navigator, Sean, “Jaiden has demonstrated tremendous growth professionally and personally throughout her time in the Navigate program.” We’re so proud of Jaiden and all she has accomplished! We look forward to seeing what she does in the future.