Elena Angeles, a “Promotora” in MG’s Parent Partner Program tells her story:
When I first arrived in San Francisco, everything was weird. It seemed to me that everywhere I went, all the places were the same, and it didn’t take long for me to be homesick. I told myself, “I can’t take it any longer. I want to go back home to be with my family.” But now that I have my kids, everything has changed for me. My husband and I know that we must take advantage of all the opportunities this place can offer our children.
My parents strove to give me an education, and thanks to them I finished my studies. They were the reason I attended college. Now I want give my children the same opportunity; I want to help, encourage and support them to achieve their goals. With love and dedication, I am confident that they will be successful in reaching college. My husband and I will put all of our efforts in having our children do their best as they move forward.
I am proud to have two beautiful and grandiose children that life and God has given me. I have the support of my husband, which gives me the strength to see day-in and day-out the effort and dedication that our children express when they are being challenged. The things that I learned in my country, academically speaking, are very different from the methods used here. My daughter received tests, which were a bit difficult, but I found the resources and the support she needed to help her study.
I know that I am not very good at explaining things to my children, but I have next to me a great person who helps and supports me; my husband. He has a lot of patience. He stays calm when explaining things to me and our children. I liked being a part of this group (Parent Partner Program). I’ve learned a lot. This group has offered me information that has guided me to be an advocate for my children and have access to resources. With this information I can aid and support my children. I hope to learn more and attentively continue to receive and apply the tools given. This has been a great experience for me. Thank you for the opportunity.