Head Start and NHA gave my brother and I a strong foundation that enabled us to achieve academic success. As first generation children this country, our knowledge of the English language was limited. Our parents, both Mexican immigrants and Spanish speakers, understood the value of an education and sought our programs that would help my brother and I succeed in the United States. Through the quality education we received from the Head Start program, we were able to learn English and were exposed to the academic requirements to ensure my success in Kindergarten and beyond. We both have received a Bachelor of Arts degree from University of California institutions in Political Science and earned Master of Arts degrees in Public Administration. Head Start and NHA were instrumental in creating an opportunity for us to become professionals in our community. I am a proud team member of Neighborhood House Association working with the Child, Youth, and Family Service Division to ensure that future generations have access to Head Start programs.
