Erika’s Story:
From Hotel Room to a Fulfilling Career
Erika and her children were living in a hotel in Southern Maine, but she dreamed of finding a rewarding job that could sustain her family and allow her to build financial security. She grew up in her grandmother’s daycare center and always wanted to work with children. However, like many talented educators, she faced barriers that made it hard to move forward in the field.
Then Erika learned about United Way of Southern Maine’s Early Childhood Workforce program—and she immediately signed up. The program connects aspiring educators to essential training and helps overcome common challenges by providing transportation, support, and translation services. Over the next eight months, Erika developed her skills in caring for babies and children, trained in first aid, and even learned the basics of starting her own business.
After finishing the program, Erika was ready to look for a job. United Way connected her with Youth and Family Outreach (YFO), a community partner. Though no positions were open, YFO invited Erika for a practice interview and quickly recognized her warmth and experience. She was hired on the spot.
“Erika brings a calm, thoughtful approach to working with both children and adults,” shared Camelia Babson-Haley, executive director at YFO. “She is bright and brings a cheery disposition to a busy job every day.”
Erika’s joy, care, and passion for her work is visible to anyone observing her in the classroom.
“[My job] delights me every day I go to work. For me, it is magnificent when we take care of children,” says Erika.
Stories like Erika’s are possible because of supporters like you. United Way is a problem-solver, bringing people and resources together to solve tough challenges. Your support helps us invest in solutions that work, from opening pathways for educators to investing in high-quality child care centers.