&noscript=1 />

Single mom finds strength and confidence to chase her dreams

Motivated by her sons, Amarillo woman leads by example

Yesenia Nieto is a hard-working single mom of two teenage boys. She craved a way to create a better life for her sons. Buckner Family Pathways in Midland helped spark the change Yesenia wanted for her and her family.

Her sons, then 9 and 13 years old, motivated her to step out in faith. She was working full time at a day care and struggling to afford a small one-bedroom apartment for the three of them.

“I loved my job, but I wanted something that would provide more for my sons,” she shared. “I had completed some college, but I wanted to go back to be able to develop an actual long-term career.”

Help and encouragement from a supportive community

Desperate for support and encouragement, Yesenia found Family Pathways and began the program in August. She jumped into the dream of pursuing her education and graduated with her associate degree in May from Amarillo College.

She excelled in school and leads as an example for her sons and the other Family Pathway residents. Yesenia was a member of the Resident Council and led spiritual development. While leading, she was able to find strength and confidence to create boundaries for the toxic relationships in her own life.

Through the support and community of Buckner, Yesenia proudly said she has healthy friend and family relationships in her life. “I don’t feel stressed anymore either!” she exclaimed.

The determined mother continues to chase her goals

As a first-generation immigrant, Yesenia dreams of teaching secondary Spanish. She is inspired each day by her parents, and teaching is a way she believes she can honor them, as well as pay it forward to others in her community.

Yesenia graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Spanish and is now pursuing her teaching certificate. Proving yet again she can achieve what she puts her mind to.

Achieving her goals inspires her sons to do the same

“My oldest son is now in high school and has a future to look forward to now,” she shared. “Knowing I am achieving my dreams and getting closer to becoming a high school Spanish teacheris changing their lives forever.”

Learn more about how Buckner Family Pathways supports and encourages single parents to fulfill their dreams.

Add a Comment

Subscribe To Our Blog

Get uplifting stories of how you can shine hope in the U.S. and around the world!

We're excited to share with you all the ways you can shine hope to vulnerable children and families around the world. We invite you to stay connected with us while also growing in your own faith.

Click below to get the latest news, updates and invitations to exclusive events from Buckner. And, we'll send you spiritual encouragement through our weekly Faith Focus devotion. You won't find these stories and resources anywhere else!