Joanna Regueira

Joanna Regueira joined the Center for Working Families (CWF) program in October 2012 hoping to improve her employment and financial situation. She had three goals: to purchase a newer car and obtain financial aid to finish her degree. Long-term, her big dream is to purchase a home for herself and her children. Joanna attended the CWF workshops. She did not miss a single career or financial coaching appointment. As an added bonus, she was referred to the VITA program at Hispanic Unity to complete her 2012 taxes. The outcome was magnificent; she received a substantial refund, part of which went into her savings account. (The VITA program is a FREE tax preparation program for working families and individuals.)

With the guidance of her Financial Coach Joanna created and improved her monthly budget. She later applied for and was approved for the “Ways to Work” car loan program. Joanna purchased her new vehicle in May 2013 by using a portion of her tax refund as a down payment!

After this major accomplishment, Joanna wanted to continue her education. With hard work and continuous financial coaching, she applied and was approved for the “Individual Development Account” grant, which yielded a $4,000 grant towards her education. Joanna is now attending classes at Broward College and pursuing a Registered Nurse degree and is expected to graduate in November 2014.

What’s next for this motivated and successful woman who has learned the lessons of: Earning It!  Growing It!  and Keeping it!?

She’s saving for a new home of course!