Breaking barriers and building dreams: how Yalonda transformed her life through education
When Yalonda came across an ad for The Palmetto Excel Center (PEC) on Facebook during the early hours of the morning, while nursing her baby, she didn’t realize it would be the start of a life-changing journey. As a dedicated mother of three, including a child with autism, Yalonda faced significant barriers. She juggled the demands of balancing family responsibilities, navigating financial hardship, and she struggled to find well-paying jobs that didn’t require a high school diploma. Yet, she never gave up on her dream of creating a better future for her family.
For six years, Yalonda stayed at home, reliant on government assistance while raising her children and searching for a way to rise above poverty. Many opportunities seemed out of reach due to the high cost of childcare, unreliable transportation, and a lack of professional support. That Facebook scroll opened a door when Yalonda learned that PEC provided the solution she desperately needed. Not only did she learn about an opportunity to complete her high school education, but the center also provided on-campus childcare free to students, removing one of her biggest obstacles.
In April 2024, Yalonda proudly graduated as part of PEC’s first graduating class, earning her high school diploma after more than a decade out of school. This major milestone opened up a new world of possibilities, including a path to become a certified pharmacy technician and land role as an enrollment specialist at the very school that transformed her life. “I’ve always wanted to help people,” Yalonda explains. “Now, I can do it on a greater level. The Palmetto Excel Center gave me the confidence I needed to succeed.” In her position with the school, she now helps others who are walking similar paths to her own by guiding new students through the enrollment process and providing encouragement every step of the way.
Yalonda’s journey didn’t end when she earned her diploma. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in special education at the College of Charleston. This next chapter represents her commitment to long-term personal and professional growth. Her dream of becoming a teacher is now well within reach, and she’s passionate about making a positive impact in her community.
Beyond her work at PEC, Yalonda engages in community outreach, helping to spread awareness about the life-changing opportunities available through Palmetto Goodwill. Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination, the right support system, and access to education, it’s never too late to build a brighter future.
For more information about The Palmetto Excel Center visit: palmettoexcel.org
