“It is never too late to set goals for yourself or go after your dreams.”
Trinity Brooks has lived out these words for herself, and for her son Tristan, when she enrolled herself in the Project Learn GED program as a thirty-year-old single mom.
Alexia Harris, Communications and Community Relations Manager for Project Learn, says that the organization began with a vision of and services for adult literacy.
Brooks believes that having her high school diploma is “the door to all opportunities. I am always telling my son how important education is, and how care he can go with a diploma, and farther even after that.”
Since it’s inception, Project Learn has expanded significantly. The program now includes GED certification, help for refugees and immigrants learning English, and college transition assistance offered in conjunction with the University of Akron. In addition, Project Learn also collaborates with the Reach Opportunity Center at Summit Lake and Bridges Summit County to “integrate the achievement of a GED with learning how to combat the mindset of poverty,” Harris explains.
Brooks says that her love for her son is what drove her to take that momentous step.
“Like every parent, you want what’s best for your children,” she says.” I want more for my son than I ever had.”
This step also helped Brooks to realize her gift for poetry. Her poem was selected from 350 entries this year, and the author read it live during this year’s Project Learn fundraiser and graduation event at Akron Civic Theater.
Her son Tristan was so proud that during the event, he proclaimed out loud for all to hear, “that’s my mom.”
In the accompanying video that was played, Brooks told her story. She shares an inspiring tale, wanting her experience to be an example that anyone can achieve their dreams — and that Project Learn is the place to get the help to do it.
Speaking in high regard for the program, Brooks says, “They really see you through.”
To learn more about Project Learn, it’s programs and mission, visit their Web site.
