Graduate Spotlight: Rachel Manna
Life felt like an uphill battle. As an Army veteran and a mother of two, I wanted to provide stability and a bright future for my family. But at the time, I was stuck in a dead-end fast-food job, financially struggling, and burdened by the weight of a criminal background that limited my opportunities. My work history consisted of fast food, retail, merchandising, and telemarketing—jobs that felt more like a survival tactic than a career path. Deep down, I craved something better. A “real” job, a “good” job, a career that matched the potential I didn’t yet see in myself. But back then, I believed the life I was living was all I deserved.
That’s when I discovered Project IOWA and decided to take a leap of faith by joining the Cultivating Careers program.
From the moment I walked through their doors, the Project IOWA staff treated me like I was capable of more than I ever imagined. They helped me rebuild my confidence, teaching me how to present my background in a way that focused on my strengths and potential rather than my mistakes. They didn’t just provide tools and strategies for my job search—they provided unwavering encouragement, standing by my side every step of the way, even after I completed the program.
Through Project IOWA, I realized that my past didn’t define me. I wasn’t alone—many people with criminal backgrounds have gone on to find success. For the first time in years, I saw my skills in a new light. I learned to highlight my strengths, reframe my story, and advocate for myself in ways I never thought possible.
Since graduating, my life has completely transformed. I now work for Zion Integrated Behavioral Health Services and Urban Dreams—roles I wouldn’t have even considered applying for before Project IOWA. The program gave me the confidence to pursue opportunities that once felt out of reach. I’ve continued to excel in my career, adapting to new roles and challenges along the way.
But the impact of Project IOWA goes beyond employment. They helped me redefine my sense of self-worth and gave me the tools to take control of my future. I’ve learned to make intentional choices about my goals, advocate for a livable wage, and approach life with a clearer vision of what’s possible.
Even now, years after graduating, Project IOWA continues to support me. From resume reviews to job search assistance, their personalized guidance has been invaluable as I’ve taken new steps in my career. They’ve built a community that uplifts people like me—not just for a moment, but for a lifetime.
Project IOWA matters because it bridges the gap for those who feel stuck or undeserving, offering a pathway to meaningful careers and financial stability. Their services are different from other "job placement" programs. They don’t just match you with a job; they help you discover your self-worth, empowering you to find passion in the workplace and purpose in life.
For anyone feeling like I once did—lost, stuck, or unsure of what’s next—Project IOWA can change everything. It did for me.
