When he was awarded one of the few permanent resident visas available through the United States' formal process, he was elated at the chance to learn even more about caring for the sick. He joined his brother in Omaha in 2009. But once here, he found that he would have to start his medical training all over again, if he wanted to practice medicine. He contacted Metropolitan Community College.

United Way and MCC recognized it is hard for newcomers to connect with all of the appropriate training and licensing requirements. Together, the organizations formed Project Bridge, a program that guides foreign-born health professionals through the process of earning their U.S. medical licenses. PB addresses that process, along with the growing need for additional health professionals to serve an aging U.S. population. His skills and background will also valuable in caring for other African immigrants who live in the area.

His Project Bridge adviser at MCC helped Compaore select his first course, phlebotomy, and then identified a local class that met his needs. It’s just the first step in a long process toward his American medical license. But he's passed his first milestone; after passing the class, he's been offered a job as a phlebotomist at UNMC. Compaore will work there and continue his studies, excited that he's back in the profession he loves. And in a job that enables him to support himself, and our community.

 Learn more about Project Bridge right here, or...

Visit Metropolitan Community College's PB site!