What We Do Success Stories

Our participants each have unique stories about how they discovered Project ARRIBA and how participation in the program changed their life. The commonalities among them are their tenacious spirit, desire to improve their families’ standards of living, a willingness to persevere, and a commitment to succeed.

Success Stories
Jennifer Gonzalez
Jennifer Gonzalez
Training Provider
UTEP
Career Field
Registered Nurse
Employer
Hospitals of Providence
Annual Salary
$58,000
Quote from Case Manager

Jennifer’s vibrant personality and positivity were truly remarkable during her time at Project ARRIBA. She excelled in her classes, tirelessly working to achieve a 4.00 GPA. Her current success is a testament to her hard work and determination

- Mimi Duran
Quote from Participant

“Be proud of how far you have gotten and always give yourself the credit, it was all you!”

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Brandon Rodriguez
Brandon Rodriguez
Training Provider
UTEP
Career Field
RN B.S.N
Employer
University Medical Center
Annual Salary
$120,000
Quote from Case Manager

Brandon’s exceptional leadership, unwavering willingness to assist, and inspiring expertise continue to make a profound impact.

- Mimi Duran
Quote from Participant

“You can never say please and thank you enough. Good manners and respect will take you far.”

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Cesar Castro
Cesar Castro
Training Provider
EPCC
Career Field
LVN
Employer
Del Sol Medical Center
Annual Salary
$95,000
Quote from Case Manager

I remember Cesar back in 2005, a young man full of dreams, hopes, and doubts. He always had a smile on his face, and we shared many enthusiastic laughs together. Over the years, Cesar has kept in touch and never forgets what Project ARRIBA did for him. He often reminds his case manager that “he would not be where he is if it weren’t for Project ARRIBA.

- Mimi Duran
Quote from Participant

“You weren’t called to nursing because it’s easy – you were called because you’re strong enough to endure, smart enough to grow, and brave enough to care when it matters most.”

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Jesse Carbajal
Jesse Carbajal
Training Provider
EPCC
Career Field
Physical Therapy Assistant
Employer
Home Health Agency (contract)
Annual Salary
$100,000
Quote from Case Manager

“Don’t wait for opportunity to come knocking, go out and create it”

- Estela Flores
Quote from Participant

His favorite quote from his late father Mr. Antonio Carbajal

“Take care of those who take care of you”

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Isaac Villado
Isaac Villado
Training Provider
EPCC
Career Field
Registered Nurse
Employer
Las Palmas Medical Center
Annual Salary
$140,000
Quote from Case Manager

“Small steps every day lead to big changes

- Estela Flores
Quote from Participant

“If you got a dream, do it, chase it, prove it”

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Cristina Estrada
Cristina Estrada
Training Provider
EPCC
Career Field
Licensed Vocational Nurse
Employer
Centro San Vicente
Annual Salary
$45,000
Quote from Case Manager

“Sucess comes to those who keep going, even when it’s tough”

- Estela Flores
Quote from Participant

“Set your dreams, and chase it otherwise it remains a dream”

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Danielle Gerardo
Danielle Gerardo
Training Provider
UTEP
Career Field
RN
Employer
Revive Home Care
Annual Salary
$62,400
Quote from Case Manager

“During her participation in Project ARRIBA, Danielle was an exceptional participant. She was always compliant with all requirements and was an outstanding nursing student at UTEP. Danielle had passion for her education and compassion towards others. Danielle stood out by always sharing what she learned in class and assisting other participants navigate the intricacies of nursing school. I never doubted that Danielle would graduate and achieve her dream of becoming a nurse.”

- Mimi Duran
Quote from Participant

“May every day be an opportunity for me to show the world what I am capable of and to give back to those who need a reminder of how valuable they truly are the way Project ARRIBA has for me.”

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Bianca Soto
Bianca Soto
Training Provider
EPCC
Career Field
Registered Nurse
Employer
University Medical Center
Annual Salary
$49,920
Quote from Case Manager

After all of her set backs and bumps in her road, Bianca finished strong. I had the pleasure of case managing Bianca through her journey. She worked very hard and sacrificed a lot to be able to finish her degree. I am very pleased and happy for both her and her son whom she is able to provide for.

- Estela Flores
Quote from Participant

“Don’t let your circumstances hold you back. No matter how many set backs and falls might come your way, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. It is never too late and start over. The sacrifice is all worth it at the end”

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Andrew Webster
Andrew Webster
Training Provider
EPCC
Career Field
Registered Nurse
Employer
University Medical Center
Annual Salary
$58,240
Quote from Case Manager

“I knew Andrew would be successful from the moment I met him as he was determined to become a registered nurse. He worked hard and dedicated himself to passing his classes so he could have a secure future for himself and his family”.

- Isela Loera
Quote from Participant

“Really grateful for Project ARRIBA and the assistance that was provided”.

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Valeria Fernandez
Valeria Fernandez
Training Provider
EPCC
Career Field
Registered Nurse
Employer
University Medical Center
Annual Salary
$58,240
Quote from Case Manager

Valeria’s barriers were a little different than most. Valeria has been on her own since the age of 18. She has always worked to get herself through school so being in the nursing program really made it that much difficult for her. Her participation and compliance with Project ARRIBA made me sure she would make a great employee anywhere she would go

- Estela Flores
Quote from Participant

“I am beyond blessed to have come across Project Arriba, this organization genuinely opened so many doors for me and kept me at ease amidst the chaos in nursing school; I want to thank project arriba for introducing me to UMC recruiters which lead me to my first nursing job. I am forever grateful, thank you”

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Looking for more success stories?

Read additional success stories in our archive.