Securing the future

Erika Santillán proudly heads to work each day at a safety and security company in Quito, Ecuador. She knows this job is an important step toward breaking the cycle of poverty that defined her childhood.

The training Erika gained from CI’s Into Employment program made all the difference. “I received life skills, customer service [skills] and how to interact with others,” she says. 

Erika enjoys her job, which includes invoicing, talking to clients on the phone and working with the company’s technical staff. 

After her father abandoned the family, Erika’s mother, Patricia, became the family’s sole provider — and protector. 

Patricia provides cleaning services at one of CI’s community centers, so she understands the impact of our programs on teens like Erika. “The tools given have helped her a great deal in her daily life, allowing her to fight for her future.”

“I want to thank CI for everything I’ve received,” Erika adds. “The program has helped me grow as a person. As the saying goes, ‘Fear of failure won’t stop me from trying!’ I left my fear behind.”

With her mother’s love and support, Erika feels like anything is possible. And, thanks to Into Employment, she has a head start on the path out of poverty.