At Vita Nova, transformation is often measured in quiet but powerful ways. One of the clearest signs of forward momentum we are seeing today is the growing number of mothers pursuing further education — not as a distant dream, but as an active step toward independence.

Several residents are currently enrolled in college and certification programs, each working toward a different future:

• One mother is completing her general education courses at Metropolitan Community College as she prepares to enter a dental hygienist program. She already holds a dental assistant certificate and is working toward advancing her credentials.
• Another is enrolled at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, building on her CNA certification as she works toward becoming a licensed practical nurse.
• One resident is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in social services.
• One is completing an online certification to become a pharmacy technician.
• Another is beginning coursework with the goal of pursuing a career in counseling.

These paths are different. What connects them is what education represents: forward movement, long-term thinking and growing confidence.

Education as an outcome — not a starting point

For many pregnant women facing housing instability, education is rarely the first priority. When daily life is uncertain, survival becomes the focus, and long-term planning can feel out of reach.

At Vita Nova, stability comes first.

Safe housing, reliable childcare, consistent meals, transportation, case management and structure remove immediate barriers so growth can begin. As Director of Operations Sara McVay shared, only one of the five residents currently pursuing education has their own vehicle; the other four rely on Vita Nova for transportation to and from classes.

Staff also help residents navigate financial aid, resolve past college debt that can block enrollment, secure access to laptops or the computer lab and coordinate childcare so mothers can attend classes.

“It’s really powerful to see that many of their other stressors are relieved enough for them to focus on further education, which opens the door to better jobs and a stronger future for themselves and their children,” McVay said.

These supports are practical. Their results are visible.

What education signals

At Vita Nova, education represents more than academic progress. It signals a shift — from surviving day to day to building for the future.

Residents balancing coursework, employment, parenting and Vita Nova programming are strengthening time management, communication and structure. Many leave early in the morning for classes, return home for dinner and bedtime routines, and complete homework in the evening.

Through that process, they’re building independence in real, practical ways.

The broader impact

When a mother pursues education, the impact extends beyond her own future. Children observe planning, persistence and forward momentum. They see goals being set and pursued. These experiences quietly reshape expectations for what is possible.

This reflects the direction of Vita Nova’s storytelling in 2026 — highlighting not only journeys, but outcomes. Education enrollment is one of those outcomes. It reflects confidence regained, independence strengthened and long-term stability taking root.

Building forward

Transformation at Vita Nova rarely happens in a single moment. It unfolds steadily — through structure, support and daily progress.

Five mothers pursuing further education may sound like a simple number. In reality, it represents something far greater: sustained change in motion.

When stability comes first, education follows.

And when education follows, futures open.

Learn how you can support Vita Nova’s mission to create lasting pathways to independence for mothers and their babies in our community.