2013 Champion - Elisha Weaver

Financial troubles didn’t keep her down

After leaving high school without a diploma, and needing only four credits, Elisha Weaver, of Simcoe, considered her options and realized the importance of education.

She knew that to achieve her goals she would need more.

She made it her personal goal to graduate high school by the time she was 23. Elisha entered the Grand Erie Learning Alternatives (GELA) adult education program offered in Simcoe.

Re-entering school put Elisha in a difficult financial position, and she applied for social assistance through Ontario Works. That experience inspired her, and she followed up her GELA experience by entering the Social Service Worker program at Fanshawe College’s Simcoe campus.

She is in the first year of the program and she wants to work with Ontario Works or an employment agency in the employment or education area.

“I want people to realize they don’t have to be ashamed to get the support,” she said. “I think people can use it to their advantage to support, for when they need it, but not forever.”

While it was tough for her at first, Elisha feels great about going back. “I can move on. I’m done high school now, and can go to college.”

Story by Rob Rombouts

Photo by Blackbird Photography