I’m a 34-year-old mom with a 14-year-old daughter, and I’m finishing my bachelor’s degree at Wilmington University. Alongside being a student, I work as a community health worker in Delaware, where I help single moms across the state. I’m incredibly honored to be recognized as a finalist nominee for the 2024 Community Health Worker Champion Award. This recognition means so much because it reflects my passion for supporting and helping others in my community.

When I was younger, I didn’t fully understand the importance of education. I was born and raised in Wilmington, where life in my neighborhood was full of challenges like poverty, violence, and limited opportunities. Many people felt stuck, and dreams often faded before they could begin. Despite the hardships, I wanted more for myself and my daughter. I was determined to rise above my circumstances and build a better future for us.

I had my daughter when I was 20. I didn’t even have a high school diploma and struggled to make ends meet. When I started applying for jobs, I faced rejection after rejection because of my lack of education. The jobs I could get didn’t pay enough to support me and my daughter. That was my wake-up call. I knew I had to make a change for her and myself.

At 23, I learned I only needed six credits to earn my high school diploma. I enrolled at James Groves Adult High School, and walking across that stage with my 2-year-old watching was one of the most amazing moments of my life. It gave me the confidence I needed to move forward. With my diploma in hand, I started working in health care, but I was still hesitant about going to college. To ease into it, I enrolled in a trade school at 25 to become a certified dental assistant. That experience showed me I could set and achieve goals, giving me the courage to start college at 26.

My college journey hasn’t been easy. Life as a single mom can be unpredictable, and there were times I had to put my education on hold. Balancing multiple jobs while doing everything on my own wasn’t easy. But I never gave up on my dream. I took breaks when needed to make time to live my life and travel, but I always returned to my goals. I’m nearing the finish line, and I couldn’t be prouder. I will become the first in my family to earn a bachelor’s degree this June. I can’t wait for that day to have my daughter watch me cross the stage, just as she did when I earned my high school degree. One of my long-term goals is to attend law school to serve and advocate for my community, God willing. I want to help others overcome their struggles and make a lasting impact.

To all the single moms out there: I know how hard it is to feel like there’s no way out of your struggles. But trust me, put God first and never give up on your dreams, no matter what challenges life throws you. You are stronger than you realize. Keep pushing through, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. Taking risks might be scary, but those risks can lead to significant opportunities. It’s okay to take breaks and focus on yourself when needed, but always come back stronger and stay focused on your goals. As single moms, we have the power to break generational curses and create a better future for our kids. We are resilient, hardworking, and determined to improve things, no matter the odds. Every sacrifice, every step forward, shows your strength and love. Even on the toughest days, remember you’re setting an example for your children about staying strong and never giving up. The journey won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. Believe in yourself, trust the process, and keep moving forward. You can do amazing things, and your dreams are still within reach. Stay strong, stay focused, and never forget you’ve got this. You are capable of incredible things. Benjamin Franklin wrote one of my favorite quotes: “You can do anything you set your mind to.” It’s true. Believe in yourself, take that first step, and finish what you started. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish.  

This June, Denise Ortiz will graduate with a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies.