A Safe Haven for our Family
By Laura Gunter, AVANCE PCEP Parent Educator, Early Head Start parent
I learned about AVANCE shortly after moving from Louisiana to Texas in search of better opportunities. Being new to the area, we didn’t know many people, and I was looking for care for my youngest child, which would give her a head start and allow me to return to work. That’s when I found a family child care home that was an AVANCE partner.
That place became a safe haven for our family, especially my youngest daughter.
Before finding AVANCE, I wasn’t able to work. I was determined to care for my children in the best way possible. After going through COVID, everything felt so unstable. I just didn’t feel comfortable or ready to send her to a preschool.
AVANCE changed that. It was comforting to find a place that not only cared about my child’s safety but also her development and, most importantly, her social and emotional skills. The communication and involvement of the teachers and staff were remarkable. Knowing our daughter was in good hands when my husband and I dropped her off every morning gave us peace of mind.
Thinking about the dedication and effort of her teachers still warms my heart to this day. Mrs. Garza, the center’s director and AVANCE partner, made an incredible impact on our lives. She loved our family, and it showed. She always went above and beyond; her kind and helpful spirit made a difference when times were tough.
Some days, just making it to school felt like a win in our fast-paced lives, so Graduation Day stands out as one of our most precious memories so far. Watching my daughter finish her very first school experience was so rewarding.
Her transition to school was smooth because she was ready. Beyond academics, she learned how to express her feelings, regulate her emotions, and interact with others. She was exposed to routines, positive behavior, and a curriculum that met her needs and prepared her for success.
AVANCE also changed my outlook for the future completely. When I first came to AVANCE as a participant, I thought I knew what I wanted to do. But I was offered an opportunity to join the team, and knowing that they believed in my capacity and potential, I took it. Now, I am at a very happy place in my life doing something completely different than I had planned but so very rewarding. I’ve learned that small goals can help you achieve bigger ones, so I work towards mine patiently. I am always growing and striving for more and the best for me and my family.
We also found a community through AVANCE. During our journey, we’ve met families, teachers, and staff who continue to offer support. And now that I’m part of the AVANCE team, I have wonderful mentors and co-workers who help me grow every day.
To any parent considering an AVANCE program, you won’t regret it. They will give you the tools to give your children what no one else can—your time, affection, experiences, and culture.