Lifelong Bay Area resident, Jason Pofi, 53, has worn many hats in the healthcare field. From roles as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), Jason’s dedication to the field is evident. Now, he’s embarking on a new chapter by returning to school to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
For over three decades, Jason has been a pillar of support, not just for his family, but also for the Napa community. This unwavering commitment is one of the reasons he was recently awarded a Healthcare Scholarship from Napa Valley Community Foundation (NVCF). The Healthcare Scholarship is made possible by Queen of the Valley Foundation and is designed to benefit Napa County residents enrolled in nursing and respiratory therapy programs at Napa Valley College or Pacific Union College.
Jason’s journey into healthcare began somewhat unexpectedly. While pursuing a theater major at the College of Marin, a roommate mentioned a need for help at a nearby convalescent hospital. Initially joining as a handyman in the psychiatric department, Jason’s innate compassion was quickly noticed. Recognizing his potential, the hospital management offered him a position working directly with patients. They even sponsored his education to become a CNA.
Grateful for the opportunity, Jason discovered a passion for patient care. “I found myself in an environment where I wasn’t looking at the clock every 15 minutes thinking, gosh, when do I get to leave?” Jason shares, “That was a clue for me to continue in healthcare.”
His journey didn’t stop there. Jason obtained his EMT license, finding immense satisfaction working on a 24-hour Basic Life Support ambulance in Santa Rosa. “I loved that job, but it just wasn’t making ends meet,” Jason shares. Seeking a more secure financial future, Jason pursued a license in vocational nursing (LVN) alongside his fiancé at Napa Valley College (NVC).
This year marks another milestone for Jason. He’s currently enrolled in a two-year program at NVC to become a Registered Nurse (RN). It was here that a professor introduced him to the NVCF Healthcare Scholarship – a scholarship that has proved invaluable, assisting with unexpected costs like fees, supplies, and even transportation. “It’s really been there in the nick of time,” Jason says.
The Healthcare Scholarship is made possible by Queen of the Valley Foundation and benefits Napa County residents enrolled in nursing and respiratory therapy programs at Napa Valley College or Pacific Union College.
Deeply connected to the Napa community where his father lives, Jason dreams of relocating here with his own family once he graduates. “I feel at home here,” Jason shares. “Sometimes I fantasize, ‘wouldn’t it be great if we all lived in Napa?’ If I’m making decent money, it might be possible.” Reflecting on the future, he adds, “It’d be nice to own a house at some point, too. Being 53, I’m going to have to stay young for a really long time, because there’s a lot of work that still needs to be done. Who wants to be old anyways?”