After experiencing the devastating loss of multiple family members, Sonja Veda Ross, Ph.D. entered an unimaginable season of grief that affected every aspect of her life.
Prior to these hardships, Sonja had earned a doctorate in Healthcare Sciences and was recruited from out of state to Arizona for a clinical position with HonorHealth, receiving a travel stipend to support her relocation. However, the profound losses she endured impacted her ability to function and ultimately led to the loss of her housing and personal assets.
During this difficult period, Sonja met a behavioral health professional through her local church who connected her with shelter resources, including UMOM New Day Centers.
After enrolling in UMOM's programs, Sonja found stability, hope, and a team that believed in her future. She credits both her Case Management team and UMOM's Career Center with helping her rebuild her confidence and work toward housing stability.
Career Center staff worked closely with Sonja to update her curriculum vitae (CV), highlighting her doctorate, extensive healthcare experience, and significant research background. As she reviewed her professional accomplishments, scholarly contributions, and years of expertise, she was reminded of the accomplished professional she had always been.
The Career Center also provided practical support, including bus passes and professional clothing, helping remove barriers to employment.
Today, Sonja is working as a contractor with the Arizona Department of Child Safety and is pursuing a promising opportunity to become a permanent employee with the State of Arizona.
Sonja credits UMOM's Career Center with helping restore the confidence, dignity, and sense of purpose she needed during one of the most challenging periods of her life. Her journey is a powerful testament to resilience, the importance of support, and the impact that hope and opportunity can have in helping someone rebuild their future.