Every day we meet clients who inspire us with their ability to persevere over adversity, and their desire to work towards a better future for themselves and their families. One of our 2024 Client MVP winners, Torchia, is no exception.
Torchia, says her motto has always been “Live, learn, and move on.” After losing her brother to murder when she was just 13, Torchia dreamed of becoming a police officer. But more unexpected life events, including becoming a mother at 14 and sustaining serious injuries from a car accident at 21, prevented her from pursuing this path. Along the way, she also found herself in an abusive relationship. She came to MND determined to create a safer life for herself and her daughter.
Despite having to take extra precautions out of fear for her safety, Torchia completed our Commercial Transportation Careers (CTC) program and earned her CDL-B learner’s permit. One year later, she is a fully licensed bus driver for the Maryland Transit Administrator (MTA) and she loves her job. She is working with a counselor to purchase her first home and recently flew with her daughter to Florida for their first family vacation. Torchia has also set her sights on a new dream—becoming an MTA police officer. “My story started with so much struggle and fear, but this chapter right here is called stability and joy,” she said.
“Thank you to all of you who support MND and make it possible for me and many others to take the next step in our journey. Without opportunity, there would be no success.”
-Torchia