In April 2003 Shajuana was referred to The Enterprising Kitchen, Inc. (TEK), from the Cook County Sheriff’s female furlough program. “I had made some poor choices and mistakes, but I wanted to get back on the right track.”   Shajuana was an excellent participant, and subsequent to her completion of the six-month training, she was hired to work in the shipping room where she quickly mastered the various skills necessary to fulfill customer orders. When TEK needed to train a new soap maker, Shajuana was very willing to learn and to change her position. Again, she quickly learned to be a soap maker.

She was determined to continue to make positive changes for her life and future. To that end, she enrolled in the Illinois School of Health Careers, a medical technical college located in Chicago’s loop to receive certification as a medical assistant. Shajuana completed all in-class coursework, and an externship in order to obtain the required 160 training hours. She will participate in the graduation ceremonies in the summer of 2005. She enrolled in school to study and receive certification as a medical assistant. This is her first step toward becoming a registered nurse.

While attending school in the evenings for eighteen months, she has maintained her employment with TEK. The best reward for all of Shajuana’s hard work and determination is a full time job! She begins working for Dr. Tinsley and Associates at the Spa on May 9, 2005. She will be earning $12 per hour and will receive benefits.

Shajuana is a remarkable young woman. TEK has become a source of motivation in her life, as it has helped Shajuana realize that she wants financial independence and stability, and as a result, she is determined to find positive avenues to achieve just that.

While participating in the TEK program she has matured and learned a great deal. She has made excellent use of TEK's training opportunity and all of the workshops offered.

Shajuana proudly states, “The Enterprising Kitchen helps you get back on track. The staff helps you try to accomplish anything you want to accomplish.”   She is truly a role model for other participants.