In recommending Felicia Hines for recognition in the Portraits of Student Success 2006, CalWORKs Coordinator Kimberly Tomlinson states, “Felicia was an exemplary student at Las Positas College, she contributed to the CalWORKs program through volunteering at different CalWORKs events, such as our annual fundraising holiday party and providing support for other CalWORKs students. Her career goal is to be a probation officer and work with at risk youth to keep them in school and on track. Felicia has worked as a volunteer at her church, with youth and in local food kitchens. She is also a member of LPC’s Honor Society.”
On the Barriers or Challenges Faced -
“I was working full time as a Infant/Toddler teacher and attending college full time on my own. Due to an injury on my job I was forced to change my field of work that also left me jobless. I have a learning disability called dyslexia and short-term memory. School itself has been difficult for me with my learning disability. Starting a new career over has been even harder. Not to mention I am a single mother of five children ages 2, 8, 13, 14 and 16. Two of them are highly asthmatic and have been in and out of the hospital, and one child has a disability.”
Impact of the Community College CalWORKs Program -
“College has taught me how to be responsible and how to set goals and achieve them. I have been a positive role model to my children, who now look up to me. My older children are now talking about which college they want to attend, which they never talked about before.”
“I would not have been able to attend college if it wasn’t for the help I received with my childcare. CalWORKs Coordinator Kimberly Tomlinson was there for me when I was feeling at my lowest moment, she took the time to hear my problems, she then was able to advise me to see a Psychiatrist on campus. Transportation was a necessity for me because of my five children and school. Without the support from CalWORKs I don’t think I would have been able to succeed. The CalWORKs program also taught me leadership, gave me positive self-esteem and I’ve made many good friends.”
Goals for Next Five Years -
“In the next 5 years I plan to have my Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice and my minor in Sociology. I will be working as a Juvenile Probation Officer. I would also like to start a group home for youth that are already in the court system. I will always continue volunteering in my community and giving back to society. My dream is to own my own home and have my children follow in my footsteps.”