Success Stories
For many years, Heyli Banos Podadera worked as a doctor in Cuba, caring for patients and supporting her community. In October 2023, she moved with her two children to South Florida to reunite with her husband. While she was eager to continue her career in healthcare, she soon discovered her Cuban medical certification was not recognized in the U.S. Even after earning her Medical Assistant certification, she was told repeatedly that she lacked the “local experience” employers wanted. In fall 2024, a friend introduced Heyli to Boca Helping Hands (BHH). There, she met Food Center Supervisor, Mariebel Torres, who not only connected her with food distribution programs but also encouraged her to explore the BHH Job Training Program. She was quickly introduced to the Job Training staff and completed the application. Heyli enrolled in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, and within just two weeks of completing it, she had a job offer. Now, Heyli is gaining experience in the U.S. healthcare field as a CNA and working toward her ultimate goal of becoming a registered nurse. In gratitude for the support she received, she also gives back by volunteering at Boca Helping Hands.
A New Chapter - Anonymous Boca Helping Hands client
Jose’s Story of Dedication and Family Support in the HVAC Industry
The Drive to Thrive: Joe's CDL Journey with Boca Helping Hands
A longstanding partner of BHH, Genesis Community Health is dedicated to delivering healthcare services to those in need. Today, she holds the role of Billing Coordinator for the Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program at Genesis. Her journey has come full circle, now serving as Genesis' representative for BHH’s voucher program, where she helps provide essential services to the community. “I love the work I do and the people I work with. It’s rewarding to be part of a program that empowers women’s health,” Dominique says. Her journey showcases the impact of BHH’s job training program—starting as a student and now working alongside BHH through the voucher program, where she helps deliver essential healthcare services by working in tandem with the same organization that once supported her journey.
In the heart of South Florida, Joseph Marie C.'s journey from customer service to nursing is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of purpose. Through the aid of Boca Helping Hands, Joseph Marie overcame obstacles to forge a new path in healthcare, enriching her life and community along the way.
