Veronica Mendoza’s role as a nurse assistant trainee is new for her, but she is no stranger to the healthcare field. Her journey began nine years ago when she became the caregiver for her aging father. After he passed away, Veronica continued in her role as an In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) provider for other people who needed care.
“I felt that I could help others,” she said.
Training as a CNA Is a Step Toward Career Advancement
Recently, Veronica decided to take another step in her career path when she enrolled in CCA’s Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) training program. Her goal is to become a CNA and eventually a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN). Currently, she’s a nurse aide at Paramount Convalescent Hospital (Sun Mar Healthcare). Once she gets her state CNA certification, she will be promoted to CNA at Paramount Convalescent with a guaranteed wage increase.
The CNA training program is a tuition-free program that is designed to create a pathway for workers in skilled nursing facilities (SNF) who are interested in a nursing career. The program helps to provide a solution to the staffing crisis in the nursing home industry by providing access to free training and placing trained CNAs in skilled nursing facilities who know the facilities’ procedures and practices.
CNA Training Offers Personal and Professional Growth
On a personal level, Veronica said that she is participating in the program “to better myself, to learn more, and to advance in my career.” But the biggest motivation is her passion for helping others. As a CNA at a skilled nursing facility, she will be able to provide direct care to more people.
Veronica first found out about CCA’s CNA training program through her union, the SEIU Local 2015. She encouraged her daughter to enroll as well. They both agree that they have received great support from the Education Fund staff and their instructors throughout the program. “They’re always there to offer support. If I have any questions, I am free to go and ask them anything,” Veronica said.
Mentoring Is a Bonus of This Training Program
The Education Fund’s training program provides tuition and support services to participants. It also supports the skilled nursing facilities where the nursing assistant trainees are getting on-the-job training as nurse aides. A key factor to the participants’ success is the mentoring they receive while they’re in training. Many CNAs continue those mentoring relationships for their first months as CNAs after they pass their state CNA exam.
“To me, the training is motivating me to continue my healthcare career, and I would say it is 100% worth it,” she said.
* CNA training programs through CCA and its partners are subject to eligibility requirements.
Please contact our programs team to learn more at: edfund@advancecaregivers.org
