Our Apprentices say it best!

Jerome’s Success Story

Jerome Johnson, Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP) apprentice at Comprehensive Life Resources, went through his own recovery journey and continues to dedicate himself to helping others.

After 6 years of being houseless, he got a job as a dishwasher and worked his way up to cook and cashier. The coffee shop he worked at served soup daily and after interacting with a worker from Beacon Youth Shelter, he was able to arrange donating the food that would be tossed out at the end of his Friday shifts to the shelter. Jerome enjoyed making a difference for others and worked at the coffee shop for three years when COVID hit.  

Associated Ministries helped support Jerome and he received money for move-in costs at an apartment. While his employment was still uncertain, he was able to move into an apartment with his family ahead of Christmas. His dedication to working hard and serving others remained, and it was noticed. 

“One day it was closing time, a program director came in, ordered a meal and coffee, and approached me, saying ‘I’ve been coming in and I like your attentiveness and customer service skills. COVID is hitting everyone; our company just lost about 40 employees, because now people have to get a COVID shot to remain employed. Would you like a job?’ And gave me his card.”

The following week the coffee shop closed, and Jerome connected with Comprehensive Life Resources where he started as a youth engagement specialist at a youth shelter. Then he moved up to peer pathfinder of WA for people experiencing homelessness, and he moved up to being a lead at the HYPE program for those 25 and younger part time with outreach.  

“I felt like it was a repeat in meeting people and not giving them what they actually need beside tents, food and coffee. I have been there at my lowest. People need more than that. That’s when I started taking certified peer training, then online training for opioid use disorders and treatment, completing the courses and receiving credits.” 

Jerome strived to do more to serve his community and took initiative but was not sure how to advance his career. When he learned about the SUDP apprenticeship program, he knew it was the path he needed to be on. SUDPs are trained to conduct assessments, counsel individuals and groups, assist in insurance authorization, conduct utilization review, and assist with case management in addition to other typical associated behavioral health duties. 

“I honestly didn’t know how to get into the field, I’m too old for school and don’t have money. When I heard that I could apply, I was happy as can be. This is what I want to do. I turned in my application twice, the third time it worked. I had to go General Manager and got approved for the apprenticeship.” 

The Substance Use Disorder Professional apprenticeship program is a 2-year program. Apprentices “earn while they learn”— working full time while gaining skills taught by experienced teachers, coaches, and assigned mentor/preceptors. They also earn college credit. Participating in the apprenticeship program was an adjustment for Jerome, but his motivation from his family and dedication to serving others has kept him going. 

“The challenges I’ve overcome on my journey were getting used to my new job description, assignments being turned in, and the whole school aspect again being old and out of shape. The apprenticeship program helped me and supported me at times when I was having difficulty getting all the books and computer needs for remote work. They helped with getting the right study materials and having weekly check-ins for any questions or concerns. The Training Fund helped me with struggles with gas and groceries when I was just getting in the door and wasn’t making enough money.” 

The apprenticeship program offers apprentices financial and educational support and an encouraging team to help them succeed. We support apprentices every step of the way. 

“There is excellent support from all the peers, and I want to shout out to Terry Roper, Abby Horn, Nakia Becerra, Marty, Susan, and Chidi.” 

Jerome’s determination to work in behavioral health has been sparked by further understanding of barriers people face and even though it can be uncomfortable, he continues to show up for others. 

 “The eye opener was the barriers with the health department, and seeing people struggle with the stigma of who deserves proper care and who doesn’t based on background or insurance.  What truly was a challenge was asking strangers difficult questions about their habits of addiction and what’s hard to let go of, to have an essential life.” 

Working in behavioral health is challenging and Jerome shares that it takes loving the work and understanding the field to be successful. The Training Fund aims to provide pathways into the field and support for retention. We continue to be inspired by behavioral health professionals. 

 “It’s the best thing that could ever happen. And I got my family back. I love what I do, seeing people become aware of their progress and that it’s achievable.” 

Our Students say it best!

Yakima Valley Technical Skills Center

Healthcare employers, workforce organizations, and education partners in Yakima are working to improve and expand Medical Assistant pathways.  

As part of our work to develop opportunities in healthcare for youth, the Training Fund is partnering with Yakima Valley Technical Skills Center to run a College in the High School Medical Assistant Apprenticeship program. 

The first year of the program consists of courses taught at the skills center with the opportunity for students to earn college credit. Students can then start earning on the job training hours from employment opportunities. Training takes place outside of regular high school hours and may vary based on employer and school schedules. Training focuses on building and demonstrating key workplace competencies. Once 500 hours are earned from externship and apprenticeship, students may take the NHA exam and apply for National & State certification. They can continue to work as a Medical Assistant-R for an additional 1,500 hours to complete the full 2,000-hour apprenticeship.

On March 19th, we visited the classroom to hear from students about their career goals and how programs like this can make a difference in their education. Students were excited to be there and it was clear to see how the learning environment supported their ambitions. Two students shared their experience with the class and their motivation for pursuing a career in healthcare. 

“My grandmother opened many opportunities in healthcare for me. She was ill and eventually passed away. I helped her live longer than the doctors expected. As a certified dialysistechnician,I was able to help with her dialysis treatments and live healthier and longer. I helped her navigate the healthcare field, as it can be confusing for some people.”

Her sister has also motivated and supported her. After being kicked out of her home when she was younger, her sister took her in and continues to support her goals. Now Bethzaida is able to focus on her schooling and career ambitions. The Medical Assistant program at Yakima Valley Skills Center is setting her up for continued success.  

“The challenges I have experienced so far in life have helped fuel me to do better. I am thankful for this opportunity. The apprenticeship program gives people who may not have the practical experience the opportunity for more learning.  It allows us to not waste lots of money on tuition and helps reduce educational debt. It also helps us find out if this profession is a good professional fit.” 

“I think itis an awesome opportunity. You go to class and learn skills, you can get into the apprenticeship opportunity and continue learning more. It is super easy to join a career program, compared to other barriers experienced, to be able to apply. It shortens the time you need to be in school for certifications. Because it is a dual creditprogramit makes it easier to take CTE courses while in high school.”

College in the High School Apprenticeship Programs remove barriers to education and are able to provide paid on the job experience to students and meet workforce needs. We are continuing to grow these programs and expand partnerships across Washington. 

Our Members say it best!

Alma’s Success Story

Alma Garcia, Patient Sitter, Nursing Assistant training student, and mother of three, has worked at Providence St. Peter Hospital since 2024. With the support of the Training Fund, she is confident in pursuing her dreams of becoming an RN.

The NA-C program is supporting Alma as the perfect stepping stone in her journey. She is chasing her dreams with the goal of becoming a registered nurse. Her dedication to advancing her career is motivated by her children. 

“I want to show my children that it is never too late to chase a dream, and hard work pays off. Every time I study or head to class, I remind myself how lucky I am to be able to accomplish something I thought was impossible. I’m tired most days but being busy keeps my heart on fire and keeps me motivated to work hard.” 

Although there have been challenges, the program provides students with everything they need to succeed: all supplies, vaccination and clinical readiness assistance, scrubs, tutoring, test registration & preparation.  Alma also appreciates how the training is preparing her to further her education beyond the program. 

“Time management, balancing my studies and fitting them in my daily life has been a challenge but is making me more resilient and is teaching me to be more disciplined. I feel like it is shaping me to prepare me for nursing school and my passion to master the art of healing.” 

Alma encouraged her classmates to share their experiences and created space for conversation to highlight the impact of this program on individuals and the community. A few other students shared how they are also balancing work, raising a family and taking classes, and how this program is benefiting their careers and education.  

This is just the beginning for Alma. 

“Thanks to the support of this program, the dream of college education feels reachable rather than impossible. My goal is to become a registered nurse. I want to be specialized in psych or wound care and go to other countries as a volunteer and help provide healthcare.” 

Our Members say it best!

Ghenet’s Success Story

Ghenet Berhane, an Environmental Service Worker at Kaiser Permanente Capitol Hill and SEIU Healthcare 1199NW member, has worked in healthcare for 27 years. In 2022, she completed the Training Fund‘s Advanced Certification for EVS Technicians (ACET) training program and is now a mentor for the program.

“The Training Fund’s investment in education shows that our work matters. It shows that EVS professionals deserve recognition, growth, and advancement. I am truly grateful for that support. 

We are frontline defenders against the spread of disease. When EVS workers are trained, educated, and empowered, the entire healthcare system becomes stronger.” 

Ghenet has been dedicated to her work and has been committed to the healthcare field for 27 years. Receiving her ACET certification has reignited her purpose, and now she is encouraging her coworkers to find theirs and continue to grow in their careers by taking the training too. 

“To my fellow EVS workers, I say this: Never stop learning. Never underestimate your value. And take advantage of opportunities like ACET.” 

Now Ghenet continues to push herself and has become a mentor for the ACET program. In June 2025, she completed our ACET Mentor training. Mentors play a critical role in the success of the ACET training program. Mentors are the hands-on skills instructors, guiding and observing ACET participants for the 8 hours of on-site training in the ACET program. 

“When I became a mentor, I felt proud — but also responsible. That journey from student to mentor was very meaningful to me. It showed me that growth never stops, even after many years in the profession. 

As a mentor, I was able to encourage my coworkers, share my experience, support others in completing the program, and help build confidence in our team. Leadership is not about position — it is about lifting others up. ACET gave me the opportunity to do that.

Becoming a mentor would not have been possible without the support of some incredible people. I would like to sincerely thank Eliana Anchor, who encouraged me and believed I could take on this role, and Alexander Hall, my teacher, for providing guidance and support throughout the program. Their encouragement made a huge difference in my journey.”

Ghenet reminds us all that learning never stops, and there is always room to grow. Learn more about your Training Fund benefits and find upcoming ACET training opportunities. The Training Fund is here for you every step of the way.  

“After 27 years in this profession, I am still learning, still growing, and still proud to serve.Thank you to the Training Fund for this program. Most importantly,thank you to all EVS professionals for the vital work you do every day. It is truly an honor to be part of this profession.”