Blog

Impacting lives, sharing experiences. This is the story of Jovany Meléndez

For us, at IBA, it’s important and gratifying to realize that we are making a difference in the lives of the participants of our community, that every day we forge a better future through each of the people who are or were part of our programs. We feel very happy when we hear the sentiments of our participants and to know that we are promoting a change. This time is Jovany Meléndez, who shares with us some of his views and experiences with IBA, part of the history he built with us:

1. How has the program positively impacted, improved or changed your life?

I participated in the College and Workforce Program, which helped me get my GED and developed my skills to find a job. The program had a positive impact on me and improved my life, giving me opportunities and helping me take the initiative to do things and move forward. It also helped me realized that I have much more to offer, and that it’s okay not knowing exactly where I want to go; as long as I have an open mind and take the necessary steps, I can move forward and improve. With the support of IBA I got my high schools credentials three months into the program and I immediately enrolled in Bunker Hill Community College and had the opportunity to learn more about myself. Shortly after, I was part of the job readiness component, among other things, simple recommendations that most people do not consider when applying for a job. Overall, I feel I got a lot of positive reinforcement from each of the people who worked with me. Even in difficult times I got the support I needed to keep my head high and constantly reminded me that I was doing the right thing without being forced or judged to go one way or another. A couple of years have passed since I participated in the program and I still get calls from them to know how am I doing and if I’m interested in any of the new programs they offer. I recently was offered a new service, Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship, which I already signed up for. I’m eager to be part of something new with IBA and I'm sure it will have the same positive impact that other programs have had on my future and me.

2. Why would you recommend this program?

If high school was not the best option for you or it just didn’t work out but want to get your high school credential, IBA is the right place for you. If you want to improve your skills before starting your professional education and start your working life, again IBA is the place for you. The basic skills needed to succeed, not only academically but professionally and in life as well, are developed in this program; this helps improve understanding of what it takes to achieve personal goals. If you decide to change your mind halfway through, IBA gives you the opportunity to take a break and come back. If you decide to change your goals and objectives through the process, IBA supports you and helps you find everything needed to be successful. I would recommend to anyone who needs any help in his or her development to approach IBA. I have recommended the College and Workforce Program to other people and many others I know are or have been involved in other programs from IBA. I am very proud to have been a participant and I am sure that any ex-participant would say the same. The people of IBA will be your new support group, your new column and your new family. You just have to take the initiative to take what IBA has to offer....