An opportunity to succeed

Community Action Partnership of Mercer County

Allanna Goosby

Allanna Goosby grew up in a dysfunctional family and decided to beat the odds. A strong and independent young woman, she decided years ago to take control of her own life and destiny despite multiple barriers within her family. Though she became pregnant at the end of her sophomore year, Allanna was determined to move forward with her goals. At the age of 16 Allanna was legally emancipated from her parents giving her the ability to make decisions based on her best interests. While this may be a scary situation for many, taking care of herself and being responsible for her actions was second nature to Allanna. "People often say that with all of the problems that I have in my life, I don't let them get me down. I just wanted to graduate from high school and go to college," she said.

In December 2002, Allanna enrolled in the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) In-School Youth Program, a joint effort between the Community Action Partnership of Mercer County (CAPMC) and the West Central Job Partnership. Allanna felt the program would give her the support and guidance that she needed to move forward.  

Through the WIA In-School Youth Program, employment case workers helped Allanna establish goals, giving her the guidance she needed to graduate from high school, continue her post secondary schooling and obtain employment in the field of her choice.  

Allanna remained dedicated to her studies, maintaining a B grade point average in her senior year. She graduated from high school this past spring, receiving the Ted Pedas Award, a savings bond that Allanna will put in a savings account. She will be furthering her education in nursing at Penn State-Shenango.  

Allanna works part time at a local convenience store and is the proud parent of a 14-month-old son, Jermaine, Jr., whom she is raising with his father, Jermaine Sr. She has also purchased a vehicle.

Allanna has the ability to disregard distractions and stay focused as well as the ability to keep going in the face of continuous challenges. Cynthia Henderson, CAPMC youth employment case worker, says she is amazed at how much Allanna has accomplished. She commends her for receiving her high school diploma and for securing employment and purchasing a vehicle within just a few months. Cynthia says Allanna is enrolling at Penn State-Shenango to obtain a degree in a field that is an important goal in her life.

Community Action Partnership of Mercer County, Inc. serves low- income individuals in Mercer County with a variety of programs designed to help them achieve independence.