I am a wife, and mother of 4. I never finished my college degree and stayed at home with my kids full-time for 15 years. I went back into the workforce and found myself (and a new passion) at Family Promise of Skagit Valley (FPSV). Continuing my education has always been something I have wanted to do, but I was not sure what would be the most useful direction for me to go.

Fast forward a bit to the Grow with Google partnership with Family Promise. As Executive Assistant at FPSV, I took on the role of admin for the Grow with Google program at our Affiliate. I had no idea what I was doing or how to answer any questions from our Case Managers or Guests, so I made myself my own guinea pig!

I enrolled in the Project Management Certificate program. This first of all allowed me to go through the process of becoming a learner within the program, as well as to experience the course layout, etc. As a learner, I have already been able to apply what I am learning right to my job. I have really appreciated the easy platform, and ability to work on my certificate at my own pace. Things like re-setting the timeline for assignments are essential for my busy schedule. My experience as a learner has, I think, better prepared me to help Case Managers and Guests utilize the program as well. I still have a lot to learn!

I am hopeful that in the coming months we will be able to develop a method for getting this resource out to more of our guests, staff, volunteers, etc. here at FPSV. I would encourage Affiliates to try the Certificate program out themselves as a great way to not only further themselves but to better help guests to utilize this resource.