by Lorena Gonzalez
On this Thanksgiving Day, we at NAHF are thankful for the many opportunities we have had this year to work together to strengthen our Latino families. We’re honored by your interest and enthusiasm, and the hours you volunteer to change lives.
Recently I received a letter from a woman who participated in an event co-sponsored by NAHF and Family Service Association. She attended our two-and-a-half-day training session in San Antonio and then applied for a Compassion Capital Fund grant to purchase computers for a high school diploma project she helps oversee. From her letter, she says:
“When I took over as director of the Sophia Women’s Learning Center … my intention was to be here for a year to transition the program from one overseer to another. After five years as director, I had many ideas for the program, but still felt like a caretaker, just watching the program until the ‘real’ people in charge wanted to do something with it. As a result of several events this year, I have come to realize that I am the real person in charge. This grant, with its leadership component, could not have come at a better time. Many of the traits that I believed kept me from being a good leader were actually my strengths; and some of my weaknesses were merely my own tainted perceptions of myself. This knowledge alone has allowed me to see myself through a new set of eyes.”
Not only has this director’s life changed, she now will change hundreds of lives and families through the expansion of her work and leadership.
In Puerto Rico, Family Leadership classes are now underway in six cities. These classes are based on curriculum, handbooks and facilitator training donated by Consuelo Kickbusch and her organization, Educational Achievement Services. Facilitators for these classes were trained by John Honaman who volunteered his time to make certain the principles and concepts are taught by exceptional teachers who understand the importance of cultural relevance and personal attention.
These are just a few examples of the efforts underway to strengthen individuals and families. Our work could not move forward without all of you. We give thanks for your efforts in preserving the rich familial tradition we share.