Ana Mihal, a UMass Amherst biology major, recently completed Catholic Charities Boston’s Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide training program — an experience that has already shaped her future. Encouraged by a mentor and eager for hands-on patient care, Ana chose to enroll over winter break to deepen her clinical knowledge and build the confidence needed for a healthcare career.

After finishing the program, Ana began working part-time as a nursing assistant at Cooley Dickinson Hospital while continuing her undergraduate studies. She credits the training with giving her not only technical skills but also a strong foundation in compassion and teamwork — qualities she is now using to serve patients in her local community. Ana says she’s grateful for the opportunity and excited to keep growing in the field, with the ultimate goal of making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

We know Ana’s story is just one of many. Across Massachusetts, Home Care Alliance member organizations are stepping up to train the next generation of healthcare workers — providing critical workforce development, expanding career pathways, and strengthening the home care and healthcare system.

We want to feature YOUR aide training program success stories!

Do you have graduates who are making an impact in their communities? Has your organization launched an innovative aide training initiative? We want to help amplify your work and share it across our social media, website, and newsletters.

👉 Contact Leslie Hammond at lhammond@thinkhomecare.org to share your stories and help us spotlight the incredible contributions your organization is making to the future of care in Massachusetts.