Making it on her own

Central Susquehanna Opportunities, Inc.

Maria Morales

Maria Morales became pregnant at age 16 as a result of a life changing criminal act but did not let it deter her from either her education or her career goals. She gave birth to a little boy, Jose, while she continued to attend high school and take care of the home where her mother, sisters and she lived. When she was 17 and in the 11 th grade, Maria found an apartment and she and Jose moved out on their own.

Shortly thereafter, Maria came to Central Susquehanna Opportunities, Inc., (CSO, Inc.) the Community Action Agency for Columbia, Montour and Northumberland counties and enrolled in the Community Service Block Grant (CSBG) Program. Having been in the cosmetology program at the local vo-tech school, Maria established the goal of becoming a licensed cosmetologist, a career path that would eventually provide for her and Jose.

When her paperwork to take the state licensing test was misplaced, Maria did not let this interrupt her dream. She quickly took action to resubmit the required materials. While she was waiting for the documents she needed to become licensed, Maria utilized several of the programs available to her through CSO, Inc. She took advantage of a work experience at the CSO, Inc. offices which provided her with work skills and the fundamentals of operating a hair salon. She gained additional experience in the operations of a Community Action Agency as well as its role in helping the community. Maria said, "I was truly touched to learn and experience the way CSO, Inc. cares about the people of our community," said Maria.  

When she received verification from the Pennsylvania Cosmetology Board that she could take the required tests, Maria again turned to CSO, Inc. The agency provided her with transportation to and from Harrisburg on the days she was scheduled for testing. Although a major testing tool malfunctioned during her skills evaluation, the results of her tests brought good news; Maria had met all of the requirements and was finally a licensed cosmetologist.  

Maria struggled to find employment due to her lack of work experience. CSO, Inc. staff assisted Maria and successfully moved the job search process forward. They spoke with the manager of a local hair salon who gave Maria an interview and hired her on the spot.   

"Without CSO, Inc., I would never have been able to come as far as I have in such a short time," said Maria. "Making my own money has never felt so good and I consider CSO, Inc. part of my family."

Maria is now looking ahead to the future. When she obtains her driver's license, CSO, Inc. and the CSBG program will provide her with a car and insurance. In the next several months, Maria will make the transition from receiving several forms of assistance to total self-sufficiency.  

Central Susquehanna Opportunities, Inc. is the Community Action Agency that provides services to people in need of assistance in Columbia, Montour and Northumberland counties.