Three women came separately to Hope for the Inner City with a shared challenge: They lacked the basic reading, writing, and math skills that all top-notch employers require at a time when hiring is at its most selective. Yet they are now on their ways to breaking the low-wage job cycle and pursuing meaningful careers.

Diplomas for Ann and Ellen

“Ann” and “Ellen” entered Hope for the Inner City’s Adult Literacy program with significant obstacles. Ann, in her 20s, raises six children. In fact, both women became moms at a young age and put their schooling aside to support their families. Rarely do women facing such challenges continue their education.

“Many miss weeks of coursework and homework because of personal issues. They have to have a huge desire to complete the program,” says Chris Cook, Hope for the Inner City’s director of programs.

Ann and Ellen did more than complete the Adult Literacy program; they also went on to finish Chattanooga State’s Fast Track program and earn their GED. With a high school diploma under their belts, Ann and Ellen are much better prepared to earn a competitive wage, and to provide for their families as God has called them to do.

Employment Boost for Nancy

“Nancy” entered Chattanooga State from a slightly different route. After graduating from Hope for the Inner City’s Jobs for Life program, Nancy decided to boost her employment credentials by pursuing her high school diploma. Normally, students who enter Jobs for Life without a diploma are encouraged to enroll in the Adult Literacy program first. Because of her studiousness and persistence, Nancy tested out of Adult Literacy altogether. She now has her GED.

This kind of determination is rare, says Cook. Because most students receive such a low score on the baseline test, many become discouraged and fail to continue. “It is amazing how low many of the scores are,” says Cook. “Some of our adults are still at the second-grade level.” Nancy, however, placed at the 11th-grade level.

For Nancy, and many other inner-city residents, becoming a fruitful steward of God-given gifts often takes the kind of dedicated Christian mentoring that Hope for the Inner City offers its community.