Pandora Adamson first came to the Mendocino Works Employment Resource Center to inquire about unemployment insurance benefits with the Employment Development Department after being laid off. That initial visit turned out to be a life-changing event for Pandora, though she had no idea at the time.

When Pandora mentioned she had an interest in the healthcare field, staff referred her to Lola Fuller, who coordinates the Caregiver Training Initiative program for Mendocino County. Within two weeks, Pandora was attending the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) class, the first step toward her goal of becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse. Sue Everett, Mendocino County Office of Education Instructor, was a teacher Pandora will remember for a long time: “She was very patient, very fair, and so thoroughly knowledgeable with her subject that she transferred this enthusiasm to her students. She gave us a sense of importance in what we we’re doing. I can’t think of any greater gift a teacher can give a student than that.”

Pandora was also very grateful for the staff and services at MPIC, One-Stop Operator for Mendocino Works. “Lola was just there every step of the way. I was going through a very stressful time and she took care of all the details, easing my way through the procedures.”
MPIC was also able to pay for the bulk of her expenses — tuition, two uniforms, shoes, fees for the state exam, and her equipment. “Lola made the financial transactions as smooth as possible,” she remembers.

Once Pandora passed the CNA class with flying colors, Greg Hernandez, MPIC Employer Service Representative, spoke to the Director of Nursing at the Ukiah Convalescent Hospital and “let them know I’d be coming by to fill out an application. I was able to set up an interview at the same time.”

Pandora got the job!

The entire process had taken less than three months. Pandora now assists patients with all activities of daily living. “I love it. It’s very hard work, but it’s what I wanted. I’m taking care of people and making a difference.”

Becky Randall, Director of Nursing at Ukiah Convalescent, is very happy with Pandora too. “Pandora has been en excellent addition to our team. She is compassionate, a quick learner, and a team player. Greg Hernandez of Mendocino Works has given me many referrals for our hospital and it works out great, insuring that we start a new employee off right. Knowing the background of prospective employees who have completed their training saves me time and cuts down on employee turnover. Before I ever place ads in the newspaper, I always call Mendocino Works first.”
Nevertheless, Pandora is still intent on reaching her ultimate goal. She’ll start Licensed Vocational Nurse classes in September, 2003, and it will take her 18 months to finish. Right now she’s finishing up a prerequisite nutrition class, offered in Lakeport. Once again, MPIC was able to assist with tuition, books, and related transportation expenses.

When Pandora completes her LVN, she wants to go on to become a Registered Nurse (RN). “I’m 42 years old. At my age, I know the value of education. This is something I’ve wanted to do all my life, and I’ve been trying to go back to school for the last ten years. I thank MPIC from the bottom of my heart. They have made it possible for me to pursue my dream.”

Pandora Adamson