The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program is a lifeline for young adults who face barriers to education, employment and long-term success. For individuals like Tessa Meagher-Hrinda and Sierrah Taska, WIOA has provided more than just resources, it has been a transformative experience that not only shaped their careers but empowered them to give back to others. Their stories reflect the profound impact that WIOA has had, not just on their lives, but on their families and communities.
The program, supported through a combination of WIOA and TANF funding from Richland County Job and Family Services and operated locally by Catalyst Life Services, provides education, training and career support to teenagers and young adults who are working to overcome barriers and achieve their goals in today’s workforce
Tessa’s journey: Balancing dreams and determination
When Tessa Meagher-Hrinda first joined the WIOA program in June of 2022, she was a recent high school graduate and a single mother of two, determined to create a better life for her family. But balancing the demands of motherhood with a full-time academic schedule was no easy task.
“Through constant hard work and a strong goal-oriented mindset, I knew I wanted more out of life, for myself and for my two children. My greatest motivation has always been my family, especially my kids,” Tessa shared. “My biggest challenge was finding balance between home life and being a full-time student.”
Tessa’s resolve was evident from the start. Shortly after enrolling in the WIOA program, she accomplished her first major goal: enrolling in college at Lorain County Community College. With the support of WIOA, she was able to receive a wide array of services including; transportation assistance, school supplies, textbooks and short-term housing assistance that allowed her to focus on her education without the constant stress of financial instability.
By reaching key milestones within the program, such as completing a financial literacy and budgeting course, and maintaining strong academic performance, Tessa earned over $1,600 in incentives, which further fueled her determination.
On December 16th, 2024, Tessa graduated with her Associate of Applied Science in Justice Systems, and immediately enrolled at Youngstown State University to pursue her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice.
“Through the WIOA program, I’ve received so many valuable resources, but it was the ongoing support from my career coach, Sierrah, that really helped me stay on track,” Tessa said.
“Sierrah has been an incredible support system. She has been timely, reliable, and thorough throughout every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and successful college experience. During times when I felt hopeless, Sierrah reminded me of my hard work and the bright future ahead. Her positivity and encouragement have truly been inspiring.”
Now maintaining a 3.7 GPA and on track to earn her bachelor’s degree in April 2026, Tessa’s journey is a testament to her academic and personal growth.
“I’ve grown more resilient and confident in myself. I am truly proud of how far I’ve come. Overcoming fear and self-doubt to become more educated and empowered has been incredibly fulfilling,” Tessa shared.
Looking ahead, Tessa is excited about the future. Her ultimate goal is to explore job opportunities that align with her interests in criminal justice, with long-term goals of leadership and giving back to others, just as Sierrah has done for her.
“My advice to anyone considering joining the program is simple: Put in the hard work. It will only benefit you in the long run.”
Sierrah’s story: Paying it forward
Tessa’s career coach, Sierrah Taska, knows firsthand the challenges that come with balancing education and parenthood. Before becoming a WIOA Career Coach at Catalyst Life Services, Sierrah was once a participant in the program herself. As a single mother pursuing her Bachelor’s in Social Work, she relied on WIOA to find direction, stability and confidence in her own goals.
“Having once been a participant myself, I can deeply relate to the challenges of balancing parenthood, education and career goals,” Sierrah shared. “That shared experience allows me to connect with clients on a more personal level; meeting them with empathy rather than judgment.”
Sierrah credits WIOA with completely reshaping her life and career path. “It gave me the confidence to realize my potential,” she explained.
“Becoming a career coach was my way of giving back, to offer the same kind of support that once changed my own life. Watching clients like Tessa succeed reminds me daily of the impact this program can have on individuals, families and communities.”
In her role as a career coach, Sierrah helps young adults like Tessa navigate their career pathways, develop life skills, and build confidence in their personal and professional goals.
“As a career coach, my role is to provide guidance on career development, job readiness and overcoming barriers, whether that’s navigating difficult life circumstances, developing a job search strategy, or learning how to advocate for yourself in the workplace,” Sierrah said. “I’m here to help my clients take the next step toward their future, no matter where they are in their journey.”
The broader impact of WIOA: Empowering communities
Tessa’s and Sierrah’s stories are shining examples of the transformative power of WIOA, but the program’s impact extends far beyond just the individuals involved. By providing resources and support to young adults, WIOA helps build stronger, more resilient communities. The program not only helps individuals achieve their goals, but it also uplifts families, reduces barriers to employment and fosters long-term economic growth.
The WIOA program serves over 200 young adults each year. In addition to one-on-one career coaching, WIOA offers a comprehensive suite of services to support young adults in achieving their goals.
These services include paid work experiences, leadership development, financial literacy education, mentoring and tuition assistance for short-term training programs in high-demand careers.
Participants also receive preparation for post-secondary education and training, giving them the tools they need to succeed in the workforce and advance their careers. Once participants exit the program, they continue to receive additional support for a full year to ensure their ongoing success.
Tessa and Sierrah are living proof that when young adults are given the tools and support they need, they can overcome challenges, break cycles of poverty and create lasting change for themselves and their families. The ripple effect of this empowerment extends throughout their communities.
Getting started with WIOA
If you or someone you know is between the ages of 16 and 24, a Richland County resident and is facing barriers to education or employment, the WIOA program could help unlock a brighter future.
For more information or to get started, contact Robert Nelson, Youth Services Coordinator at Catalyst Life Services, at 419-774-2200, or visit our website to submit a referral online WIOA Referral Form – Catalyst Life Services.
