Project Self-Sufficiency helps guide 17 to success

BY SARA B. HANSEN • SaraHansen@coloradoan.com • June 2, 2009

The single mom wouldn't have been able to reach that milestone without help from Project Self-Sufficiency.

Want to apply?

To apply for assistance from Project Self-Sufficiency, visit www.ps-s.org. Click on "How to Apply" and review the eligibility section.

The application can be printed out and mailed or dropped off at one of the organization's offices. It is not an online application. Project Self-Sufficiency offices are at 1000 Centre Ave., suite 150, Fort Collins, CO 80526, phone: (970) 407-0305 or 375 W. 37th St., suite 150, Loveland, CO 80538, phone: (970) 635-5901.

To help Project Self-Sufficiency, click on the "Donate Now" button on the Web site or mail donations to either of the offices.

Project Self-Sufficiency has the capacity to help 150 single-parent families. This spring, 17 single parents who were enrolled in the program completed academic and training programs, said Mary Carraher, executive director.

"It's so rewarding to attend graduation ceremonies for program participants who have worked so hard to reach their academic goals," she said. "To have 17 graduations from community colleges, universities and training programs is huge for our organization."

Ellis attended the Art Institute of Houston after graduating from Loveland High School but moved back to Northern Colorado so she'd be able to provide a better environment for her two daughters.

She spent several years working a variety of jobs before deciding to pursue her art. She painted portraits but wasn't making enough to support herself and her daughters.

She learned about Project Self-Sufficiency and, after taking career assessment tests, determined she should teach art.

"It showed me that was the path I should be taking," Ellis said. "Now, 5½ years later, I've graduated, and I hope to be able to teach art at the primary or secondary level."

Project Self-Sufficiency helps its clients set goals and has them meet regularly with their advisers to make sure they stay on track.

"They give you the support that helps you achieve your goals," Ellis said. "It's a collaborative effort; it's not a one-sided thing. You need to do your part."

Shawnee McPhail, 22, a single mom of 3-year-old son Tristan, graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in English and education.

Like Ellis, she said setting goals with her Project Self-Sufficiency counselor helped her achieve her dream of becoming a teacher.

"They help you map out a course and chart out how to get there," she said. "Then they help make sure you stay on track."

McPhail has already secured a job teaching in Custer County near Pueblo.

She regrets having to leave her mentors and support system with Project Self-Sufficiency.

"It's a great program; the people who work there are so supportive and understanding," McPhail said. "They try really hard to help everyone."

Carraher said she's proud of the people who participate in the program.

"They are great role models for their children and for other single parents," she said. "They have overcome many obstacles to get to where they are today."