In late 2025, Community Action Council wrapped up the first cohort of its latest family growth and self-sufficiency program—My Journey Empowered. The trauma-informed program is designed for Head Start mothers to work toward personal growth and stability for themselves and their families.
Across eight sessions, the women followed a structured curriculum and covered topics such as reclaiming personal narratives, setting boundaries, building daily routines, financial responsibility, nutrition, journaling, goal setting, and identifying personal values. Sessions focused on reflection, practical skill-building, and real-life application.
Sharing their stories and struggles with the others in the group became a powerful experience for participants, reducing their feelings of isolation and giving them the courage they needed to put their positive plans into action.
A licensed mental health clinician participated in the program to provide trauma-informed support and to help participants process past experiences when needed. All participants had access to on-site mental health support, and by the end of the program, 85% had developed and started working toward at least one SMART personal, educational, or career goal.
My Journey Empowered not only provided the catalyst needed to overcome past difficulties and make positive moves, but also allowed participants to earn state-recognized training hours, which were especially helpful for those interested in careers in child development and served as an early step toward workforce credentialing.
As a result of the program:
- More than 85% of participants completed the program
- 90% reported increased knowledge in financial responsibility, goal setting, nutrition, and the importance of routines for children and families
- About 85% reported increased confidence, emotional resilience, and improved ability to set healthy boundaries
- About 85% earned state-recognized training hours.
Overall, My Journey Empowered helped mothers build confidence and gain practical tools related to parenting, finances, education, nutrition, and career planning, supporting progress toward family stability and economic self-sufficiency. And also provided them with a network of supportive women ready to cheer them on.
