Spotlight on AVANCE National
AVANCE National is making a positive impact for children and families in their South Texas community with the support of Shine Early Learning.
About AVANCE
AVANCE National is a non-profit organization primarily serving Texas that creates pathways to economic mobility for predominantly Latino families through high-quality, culturally responsive, two-generation programming that ensures school readiness for young children and opportunities for parents to build social and economic capital. AVANCE National operates Early Head Start programs in Hidalgo County and Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Starr and Zapata Counties in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas.
How long has AVANCE partnered with Shine Early Learning?
AVANCE has partnered with Shine Early Learning for 3 years.
How does Shine Early Learning support AVANCE National?
We have people assigned to specific component areas who support our teams across the entire program – from family services to education and our leadership so we’re better leaders. ~ Susie Gillen, Starr/Zapata Counties Zone Director
How is AVANCE serving children and families?
AVANCE has two program options we operate in Hidalgo County. Early Head Start Child Care Partnership, where we support Family Childcare homes in the community to increase the quality of their care and a Home-based Early Head Start program, where home visitors support parents in being their child’s first teacher. ~ Fabian Grimaldo, Zone Director
How would describe Shine?
Literally, they Shine. They give you that light. They give you that support. It’s hope. You’re not alone. ~ Susie Gillen, Starr/Zapata Counties Zone Director
What impact is AVANCE making in your community?
We have parents going to college. Parents are taking part in our Parenting Programs like PCEP and Families Building Communities and want to be active community members. ~ Alma Trevino, Parent Family and Community Coordinator
How does Shine Early Learning help AVANCE make a larger impact in your community?
Shine provides us not just the support, but also the tools and resources to ensure that we are providing quality education to our children and families and also our staff. ~ Susie Gillen, Starr/Zapata Counties Zone Director
How does Shine Early Learning’s network help you?
Shine has other partners I can network with. They are thought partners who have already been through the same things. Having that network helps us make an impact. ~ Fabian Grimaldo, Zone Director
What difference does working with Shine make in your program?
I’ve learned how to be a different leader because of them. They have helped me build my confidence and show me that I can do it. ~ Alma Trevino, Parent Family and Community Coordinator