Meet Joanna

Published December 8, 2020

Joanna graduated from our Fall 2020 program. At the start of the program, she was shy and hesitant to speak out. Eventually, she warmed up to her team and learned to lean on the other women for support. Joanna is inquisitive, curious, and very smart. We are proud of the confidence she gained and can’t wait to see what she does in the future! Read more about Joanna’s story below.

What circumstances brought you to where you before you joined Together We Bake?

Joanna: In my life I’ve been through many changes and I experienced a lot of hardship along the way. I wanted an opportunity to start over again and try something new.

What inspired you to apply to Together We Bake?

Joanna: My caseworker told me about the program after I asked her if she knew of any classes that would be good for me.

How has Together We Bake changed your perspective on life?

Joanna: TWB has helped me to recognize that there’s still hope and that everybody faces challenges – I’m not alone.

Has someone at Together We Bake (a fellow participant, volunteer, an instructor, ect.) had a particular influence on you?

Joanna: Everyone played a part in helping influence me for the better. Ms. Stephanie was very supportive towards me, and she let me know that no matter what, everything would be ok.

How would you describe Together We Bake?

Joanna: Together we bake is a program that helps empower women like myself that has been through a lot in life. TWB helps women recognize that, even though you’ve messed up, you have a second chance and you can begin again.

What do you feel is the most valuable thing Together We Bake does?

Joanna: TWB accepts everyone in group by making us feel special. They teach us skills that we’ll be able to take with us for the rest of our lives.

What is the most valuable thing you learned at Together We Bake?

Joanna: I’ve learned new coping skills, different baking techniques, and job readiness skills.

Do you have any specific memories of experiences at Together We Bake?

Joanna: The trip we took to Women Giving Back was cool and the time spent in the classroom when we were all able to share our thoughts and help each other. My graduation day was also very memorable.

What was the most challenging thing about the program? How did you overcome those challenges?

Joanna: The most challenging aspect would’ve been my attendance. I missed a couple days. I wish I didn’t do that.

What is something you are proud of that you achieved because of your participation in Together We Bake?

Joanna: I am proud of myself and the fact that I learned something new. I participated with other women that were all inspiring, and I completed the course.

What advice do you have for the women considering applying to Together We Bake?

Joanna: My advice for the women thinking about joining TWB is to give it a try. If it’s not something you like, at least you put forth the effort and gave it a chance. I am grateful to have had the chance to be apart of Together We Bake. Everyone there was awesome. I will take the experiences I gained with me wherever I go.