Opening the Door

September 9, 2025

I saw a post on Facebook about the “Getting Ahead” workshops. It drew my attention because I love to learn, not just to improve my life but have a better future for my family. It was a sacrifice of income (as I am an independent contractor), but it was an excellent investment of time, and truly a life-changing experience! In the workshops, I learned about the “hidden rules” and how language, connections, and wealth have an impact and can define our socio-economic status. As investigators we dove deep into the material and also learned that besides our own individual behaviors and circumstances; poverty and wealth disparity exists due to other factors such as community conditions, exploitation, and political/economic structures. From the other investigators I learned that we had many things in common, like wanting a stable future for ourselves, family and our communities. The lessons, knowledge gained, and shared experiences from other investigators helped me understand I wasn’t alone in the food/financial struggle. I finally understood how I could “Get Ahead”; by priority planning, taking actions, and managing my time more effectively.

Unbeknown to me, at the end of the Getting Ahead Workshop- Georgann shared about how one of the Food Bank’s supporters Union Bank and Trust had an opportunity to apply for a loan for up to $500 and repay with flexible terms, and no interest. This motivated me to pursue a reasonable goal to change my economic situation. With those funds, I was able to afford an accelerated course and I obtained my Certified Nurse Aide license. This has changed my life as it has opened the door to more income opportunities as a travel C.N.A. I also couldn’t have done this without the nourishment support from the Food Bank of Lincoln. Had I not had food and financial support; I would have continued to just be “getting by instead of ahead”.

When we support, donate, or volunteer, we help build stronger communities and we ALL win. When fair living wages are compensated, support education with contributions/reimbursements, and advocate for accountability and equality from our leaders – you will begin the work to assist in reducing the gap of wealth disparity and set an example for the next generations to come. Nobody should have to skip or worry about affording their next meal. We all deserve access to affordable and healthy nutritious food.

–Claudia, Getting Ahead in a Just Gettin-By-World graduate