Success Stories

Success Story: Dominique Whitfield

There are moments in life that make a person reevaluate their priorities. Dominique Whitfield’s came when she plunged 50 feet off a cliff after her car’s transaxel snapped.

After flipping five times and landing in a field, miraculously, neither she or her infant son were injured, however, “It made me realize what I needed to focus on and what I did not need in my life."

Providing stability for her son was one of these realizations, “I need to be strong to show that I am ready to change my life and be a role model for my child.”

Whitfield looked at members of her family as role models, especially those in the medical field and particularly her aunt, who is a phlebotomist, someone who draws blood samples.

With the goal of becoming a phlebotomist, Whitfield is using SonomaWORKS community service program to create ties at Sutter Medical Center. “I am making contacts at Sutter and giving back to the community,” Whitfield explains.

She plans on taking classes at Santa Rosa Junior College to earn her Phlebotomy Certificate. This eight week intensive program includes an 80 hour externship where she will practice her phlebotomy skills.

“After I get my phlebotomy certificate, Sutter is the goal,” for Whitfield.

In her time with SonomaWORKS, Whitfield has tried to use every resource available. She recommends, “Be a sponge, soak up everything SonomaWORKS has to offer. Be straight with the staff and tell them what you need. Remember to ask for the things you need like clothes, food, or transportation.”