Newest CNA Grads Land Jobs

CREST HAVEN –There were a few tears and a lot more cheers when families and friends gathered in the Recreation Room at Crest Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on Dec. 8 to witness the graduation of 14 women who had completed a five-week program making them certified nurses’ aides.
“It was hard for me,” Channel Crawford said in her graduation address. “At first I didn’t think that I was going to do it because of the obstacles. But I can’t give up.”
Many of the graduates took the course while working full-time jobs. One graduate made the trip to class by bus from Atlantic County. Another graduate got married while enrolled in the program.
Each of the graduates has been offered a position in facilities throughout the area. All but one has accepted their offer.
“The CNA is the most important job,” Crest Haven Administrator Maggie Gannon told the graduates, “because you see the residents one-on-one.”
“Having a job is good,” said Darlene Rattan, a nursing supervisor at Crest Haven, “but doing what you do with your heart is more important.”
The course, offered by PRN Training Center, is free to participants.
“There is such a drastic need for CNA’s in the county,” said PRN owner Paulette Mayo, noting that there are at least 25 open CNA positions in Cape May County alone.
“It takes a very special person to do this job,” added Mayo. “You get your rewards.”
According to Mayo certified nursing assistants can enter the workforce with a starting salary of up to $14 per hour, including shift differentials. Most full-time positions also offer benefits.
The fourteen women completing the course were: Christine Firelal, Marisa Jaje, Rhona Love, Christal Luker, Barbara Rolls, Angela Spellman, Theresa Zebrowskli, Kelsie Candell, Channel Crawford, Jessica Jackson, Andria McCormick, Shaniqua Murray, Nayleen Perez and Tyanna Rossi.
PRN will begin its next certified nursing assistant course in February, said Traci Mayo, director of the training center’s youth program. Information about the program can be obtained by contact Traci Mayo at PRN Training Center at 1-888-947-9334.