Sometimes the answers to life’s challenges are as close as your local community college. The RSVP Nurse Aide Program has been an answer for many students. 

Not only does the program make completers eligible to become certified nursing assistants (CNA), but a program grant provides funding for tuition, books, and childcare. Also, students can receive a grant when they complete the program. 

Treionna Burton graduated from Nandua High School in 2016 but dropped out of Norfolk State University when she became pregnant and was dealing with additional challenges of family tragedy and the death of her grandmother. 

An RSVP Nurse Aide program announcement on social media caught the eye of this working waitress and mother of a growing family, and provided a second chance to pursue a dream of helping others. 

Treionna quickly learned of the support and guidance of ESCC team members Barb Rang and Amy Shockley. “They helped with gas cards, child care, and most importantly, were someone to listen. My instructor JoLynn Hart was there for me in every way possible.” 

Treionna graduated from ESCC in August. She now holds two positions utilizing her newly earned credential. Treionna is a CNA for My Voice, My Choice group homes, and she serves in the role of direct support personnel at Community Services Board. 

ESCC’s nurse aide programs are often the first step to other healthcare programs. Those who complete the RSVP program can then earn ESCC’s career studies certificate in nurse aide. Many of ESCC’s practical nursing (LPN) students first completed the CNA program. Graduates can also pursue the registered nurse (RN) program on ESCC’s campus. 

To learn how you can become a Certified Nursing Assistant, contact YOUR Eastern Shore Community College at 757-789-1720 or workforce@es.vccs.edu.