Navigating Success: Pathways to Self-Sufficiency

In 2024, over 1,450 community members participated in classes at Heart Ministry Center, showing initiative for a stronger, more sustainable future for themselves and their families. In addition, the number of people actively engaged in the Willing Partner Program has grown to a total of 759. To participate in the Willing Partner Program, community members need to desire to gain self-sufficiency and demonstrate goal-setting and motivation. A trained navigator works directly with individuals seeking A Way Forward on a primary goal to get started. For example, focusing on stable employment helps people confidently take steps toward financial security and a promising future. Once goals are set, navigators and community members meet bi-weekly to discuss progress and any possible hindrances.

Maria Ramirez, Willing Partner coordinator, says, “The most common requests are for assistance with finding a job and budgeting classes. We are the resource center. You don’t have to knock on ten doors. One door here, and we can get you in. No other agency in Omaha has all that we have to offer.” When individuals come to the Heart, they can access the food pantry, meet with a navigator, join an ESL class, make an appointment in the clinic and do laundry. In addition, through collaboration, we can refer them to another partnering organization if we cannot meet their needs on our campus. 

The Willing Partner staff maintains a strong relationship with each person to ensure success in the long run. Nishan Buhjel recently joined the team as a Willing Partner navigator, and provides additional support with his ability to communicate in five languages. He says, “We give people motivation, help open doors to success, and we stay with our partners until they reach the goals they have set for themselves.”