Meet Danilo: Wine & Words Featured Learner

My name is Danilo. I'm Cuban, a physician by profession, with over 20 years of experience in the healthcare sector.

When I first arrived to the United States, I faced major challenges. I didn't speak English well, and I didn't have a driver's license or a car. Everything was new and stressful, from understanding the payment system to managing credit cards. Despite those difficulties, I spent long hours every week on the bus just to maintain my job, provide for my family, and keep moving forward. My first job was at Walmart, where I met another Cuban who told me about the Literacy Center, because my English wasn't very good at the time. Thanks to her recommendation, I decided to give it a try.

​The Literacy Center completely changed my life. Not only did they provide me with English classes, but they also gave me constant support, which allowed me to feel more confident at work, at home, and in the community. Today, thanks to my improved English and the support of the Literacy Center, I proudly work as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Corewell Health. In this way, I have been able to integrate my skills and provide better care to my patients.

​To me, working in healthcare again means having the chance to make a positive impact on people's lives every day. It has deeply affected my life by giving me a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment.

​My family is everything to me. Together with my wife and children, we have faced all these challenges and managed to move forward together.

​I want to thank God, the Literacy Center, the teachers, and everyone who makes this program possible, because you are not only teachers—you truly change lives. Thank you very much.

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