” . . . it was scary to truly be on my own. . . “
“I grew up in and out of the foster care system, so I was used to being independent, but it was scary to truly be on my own with a daughter to take care of and no support system to lean on.”
Being a teen mom is not easy. I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl named Isis in March, and lost my father that November. Growing up I always took care of my dad, and that inspired me to want to help others. I spent time in and out of the foster care system, so I was used to being independent, but it was scary to truly be on my own with a daughter to take care of and no support system to lean on.
Thankfully I found a maternity residence through the Inwood House Division at CV quickly. The staff were amazing and made me feel so comfortable. They helped me create a plan to find stable work, get childcare for my daughter, and set career goals. It wasn’t just major support like therapy and counseling, they also helped with all the little things that I wanted to learn: how to make a bottle, how to cook, find a doula, process my emotions, and more.
Eventually I found work in a nursing home, where I help people get to their appointments. I got promoted to a full-time position, and recently got another promotion to Recreation Leader. I really enjoy helping the residents and bringing some joy to their day, just like I was able to do for my father. I met an employee who was close to my age range who had become Senior Executive Director of Recreation for over 50 buildings. She inspired me to get my GED and further my education, and I am now on the path to becoming a nurse.
I worked at the nursing home throughout the pandemic, and it has been tremendously painful and overwhelming. There are days I break down because we have lost so many people, and I worry about how it affects my family. Nonetheless, I know that I am making a difference and setting a strong example for Isis. I’m also enrolled at Bronx Community College, working towards getting my degree and building a future. I know that I have a lot to give back, and I can be a role model for my daughter Isis by pursuing my dreams.
Nadia and Isis lived in a mother and baby home provided by the Inwood House Division at CV. Inwood House helps young mothers complete their education and acquire the skills they need to become independent, while providing a stable place for them and their babies to live. Inwood House helps young people explore career interests, work on resumes, look for job opportunities, prepare for interviews, and plan for their family’s future.
