Committed to the future

Union-Snyder Community Action Agency

Traci Seiberlich

When Tracie Seiberlich found herself unemployed and the single mother of a four-year-old daughter, Lizzie, she began to search for a place where she could share her concerns and learn parenting tips that would benefit both her and Lizzie. "I needed tips on raising a child and how to discipline her," said Tracie.

In her search Tracie found Families Learning Together (FLT), a family literacy program of the Union-Snyder Community Action Agency. Tracie contacted the program in October 2004 and took the first courageous step in becoming a better parent.  

Upon attending evening classes at FLT in Union County, Tracie soon realized that not only would she receive parenting support but also essential skills that could help her reach another goal of obtaining employment. Tracie began to study and take seriously everything she was learning in her classes - parenting, adult education, and Parent and Child Together Time (PACT). Her drive and determination to improve led to a job offer from a local child development program only one month after starting the FLT program.  

Beginning a new job and discovering that she could achieve her goals increased Tracie's desire to stay in the FLT program and continue to incorporate what she was learning into her everyday life. "1-2-3 Magic was a real lifesaver for me," Tracy says. "When I was frustrated with Lizzie, I would use what I was learning in class and it really helped. I don't know what I would have done without that."

Tracie could also count on her father and sister for assistance and support. When she began working, Tracie's family was there to help with Lizzie. Tracie also brought her sister to class so they could learn parenting skills together, discuss issues of importance and provide Lizzie with the best care possible.

Because of her motivation and drive, Tracie now has a full-time bus monitoring position at her place of employment and is looking forward to working toward a full-time teacher's aide position. Tracie says of her future goals, "I would like to look for a home of our own in the future, and raise Lizzie the best I can."

Tracie credits much of her success to the teachers she has had at Union-Snyder Community Action Agency who helped her improve her math and reading skills while providing solid parenting advice. Her teachers, however, are quick to credit Tracie with providing encouragement to other parents in the FLT program. Tracie's dedication and persistence at achieving her goals are incredible motivators for others.  

"Tracie is definitely a pleasure to work with. I don't think you could find a more dependable participant in any program. She often tries to help other parents see the benefits of discussing parenting issues and finding new things to try when nothing seems to work," says Jeanne Trego, Parenting Instructor for FLT.

Tracie is a wonderful example for Lizzie. She has never given up and has proven to herself that she can meet and exceed the goals she establishes for herself.

Union-Snyder Community Action Agency provides a wide range of services to low-income people in both Union and Snyder Counties.