“This program gave me a second chance at life.”
Jennifer Parker’s son hasn’t had it easy in his five short years.
“He needed a blood transfusion, he had two IV’s in each arm, he couldn’t breathe on his own—it was so hard,” Jennifer, 36, said. Jennifer said one of the hardest parts was managing her son’s health in addition to her own. Things started to turn around for Jennifer when she became a consumer at Passport To Learning, Inc.
“I feel like I’ve been doing this for many, many years. Passport is the best agency I’ve been with,” Jennifer said. “I’ve had more success at PTL than any other program from the regional center.”
Jennifer and her PTL instructor, Kenyonta, work closely to improve Jennifer’s parenting skills, such as discipline and patience. Jennifer said that when her son used to throw tantrums in public places, such as the grocery store, she struggled with how to calm him. Thanks to her instructor, Kenyonta, Jennifer now is able to set boundaries with her son and how to communicate appropriate behavior to him.
“Jennifer is always willing to work hard. She wants to learn, she wants to do her best.” Kenyonta said.
Jennifer receives Independent Living Services in addition to Parent Support Services at PTL. Under ILS, Kenyonta said Jennifer wanted to receive instruction on saving her money and managing her budget. Jennifer says her next goal is getting her driver’s license and enrolling in college. She is six years sober from substance abuse and plans to pursue a career in social work in order to help other addicts.
“I tried 19 programs before finding Passport. I was so close to giving up.” Jennifer said. “God has plans for me.”
And her advice to other parents in her position? “Discover who you are and don’t give up.”