This project will provide a paid internship for Marilena, so that she can gain the work experience she needs to secure her first employment.
Marilena lives in a small village in Guatemala. Right now, she works in the fields with her family. She is the first member of her family to finish high school. In 2015 she graduated as a trained bookkeeper. She has been looking for work since then, but the first question she is always asked is if she has any work experience. Although she has worked hard all her life with her family, she has no experience in her profession.
An internship will give Marilena the experience she needs to secure employment. It also will sharpen her skills and help her develop the skills needed to be a good employee. As she will receive a stipend as an intern she will be able to help her family financially and save money to reach her dream of continuing her education.
When surveyed in 2010, 84% of former Kateri Tekakwitha Fund recipients were currently employed. The women expressed that their increased economic security is critically important to them. One woman stated, "I know how to better face life. I have more opportunities in different places, and I have a sense of security". Others said "because I have a salary I can help my family" and "we don't have to suffer a single day anymore without food", expressing their gratitude for the Fund.L
