“We thank Goodwill’s Helms Academy for helping us become confident in ourselves. Thank you for showing us it’s never too late.”
We Did It Together: Tiya and Anthony’s Journey to Their Diplomas
Tiya and Anthony share their story as featured student speakers at Goodwill’s Helms Academy 2026 commencement ceremony.
When it comes to life, it’s ups and downs. Twists and turns. Life doesn’t come with a handbook; we had to figure it out fast.
In high school, it was rough, and it was just a coincidence that we were going through the same thing. We knew each other for years, but when we dropped out of school, our minds came together and we started life together. Insane, right?
We’ve been on a constant grind to do better for the last eight years.
We became parents at 19 and 21 with our daughter. Life was not easy on us. The sleepless nights, the constant worry on our chests and in our brains about how we were going to make it. Staying out late to make ends meet and to even be able to lay our heads down. In and out of family members’ houses, in and out of hotels or motels.
Trying to Move Forward
Eventually, things started to get better. We finally moved into a place. We were working for Amazon, honestly just trying to do what was best.
We applied to different jobs, which always required a high school diploma or GED. Which was a slap in the face, knowing we had the opportunity to have it and didn’t.
After that, life got hard. QUICK.
There are many programs that help you get your diploma, etc., but we would have to pay, of course. We were dead broke. With so many other things going on, education was put last.
We were defeated. We didn’t know where to look or what to do. We had a daughter to provide for, and it seemed so hard to do.
To start a business, you need an education. To start a trade, you need a diploma. To work at a daycare center, you need a diploma. Literally everything.
We investigated different programs again, but it was the same thing. You had to pay per test, and if you failed, you would have to do the process over again. We were still figuring out life and getting out of debt. We couldn’t afford it.
A New Opportunity at Goodwill’s Helms Academy
Furthermore, in 2025, we grew our family with another heartbeat. Our son.
So now we have a daughter and a son. Something had to change. They needed to have the best life possible. To grow up and not have to deal with obstacles like their parents had to.
That’s where we would like to thank Helms Academy.
We were so uncertain about what to do and how it would go. Could we do it? Could we finish? Could we figure out the kids’ daycare so we could go?
The program we participated in offered so much help for us to attend Helms. Daycare was covered, and that was a huge obstacle for attendance.
While at Helms, we were pushed positively to finish. Miss Patti is amazing. Without her, we don’t think we would have accomplished it.
We started in February 2025. We completed the program and got our diplomas in May 2025.
WE DID IT!
Finally!
The hard work, the long days, the early mornings. Pushing through, we did it.
We Did It Together
Now we can further our careers and become the best parents to our babies.
The best thing of all?
We did it together. TOGETHER!
We thank Goodwill’s Helms Academy for helping us become confident in ourselves. Thank you for showing us it’s never too late. Also, it’s never a time limit on success. Thank you so much for everything.
This story has been lightly edited for clarity and readability while preserving the original voice, perspective and experience.
Learn More About Goodwill’s Helms Academy
Goodwill’s Helms Academy provides a second chance at education for adults who have not completed high school. The program offers a tuition-free path to earning a high school diploma in a supportive, flexible environment designed to meet students where they are.
Participants can choose from in-person or virtual learning options, making it easier to balance education with work, family, and other responsibilities. Along the way, students receive personalized support, helping them build confidence, strengthen academic skills, and prepare for future career opportunities.
Helms Academy is more than a classroom. It is a pathway to stability, growth, and new possibilities for individuals ready to take the next step.
To learn more or get started, visit: https://helmsacademy.org/
Discover Programs That Change Lives
The stories you see here are made possible through Goodwill Industries of Southern New Jersey and Philadelphia’s mission services. From adult education and job training to career placement and support services, these programs help individuals overcome barriers and build brighter futures.
If you or someone you know could benefit from these services, we invite you to learn more about the opportunities available.
