Hello Nune,

Now that the summer holidays are over, we're already looking ahead to the start of a new school year. Last month, we saw the graduation of our 3-year-olds from the Every Child Succeeds (ECS) program. These little graduates have not only captured our hearts but have also embarked on their educational journey with a strong foundation. We congratulate each and every one of them, their families, and the dedicated team of home support workers who have guided them along the way.

I'm thrilled to say that tickets are now on sale for our fall fundraising event, Passport to Success! Click this link to purchase your ticket. Passport to Success (which replaces The Sharing Table) is a celebration of cultural diversity and community. It will feature a special guest speaker, Dominique Badji, FC Cincinnati Forward. Dom was born in Dakar, Senegal, and emigrated to Tanzania and Zimbabwe prior to moving to the U.S. He recently achieved his first brace (scoring two goals in a single game) with FC Cincinnati, which earned him a spot on the Major League Soccer (MLS) Team of the Matchday for Matchday 22. It was his first weekly league honor for FC Cincinnati, but we're willing to wager, not his last. We hope you will join us for Passport to Success on Thursday, October 5, 2023, at 6 p.m. at the Miami Township Event Center, 3780 Shady Lane in North Bend, Ohio, just 25 minutes west of our Price Hill offices.

This month's success story is a testament to the power of resilience and the transformative impact of Santa Maria's programs. Courtney overcame personal challenges and sought a better future for herself and her children by enrolling in Santa Maria's ECS program and our Comprehensive Case Management and Employment Program (CCMEP). Courtney obtained her high school equivalency diploma and became a skilled EKG technician. Our Workforce Development program played an instrumental role in her journey, providing her assistance and guidance in finding employment and giving financial coaching. I hope you will take the time to read her story.

As we move forward, let us draw inspiration from Courtney and the countless others who have found strength through Santa Maria's programs. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Thank you for your support and commitment to our mission.

Sincerely,

A Mother's Determination: Courtney's Story

Courtney Palmore overcame personal challenges and sought a better future for herself and her children with the help of Santa Maria. She obtained her high school equivalency diploma, became an EKG technician with support from Project LIFT funds, and received assistance from Santa Maria’s Every Child Succeeds program and the Workforce Development program to find employment and receive financial coaching. Courtney plans to become a first-time homeowner and achieve financial stability with the continued support of Santa Maria!

Every Child Succeeds Graduation

We had a fantastic celebration last month at Elder High School, honoring the graduation of 3-year-olds from our Every Child Succeeds (ECS) program. A big congratulations to the 27 graduates, their families, and the following home visitors who supported them along the way!

• Emily Atkins
• JoAnne Dwyer
• Aracely Herrera
• Ellen Molander
• Anne Wilburn

This is a moment of pride for our community as we continue to empower young minds and shape their bright futures. Hats off to all the graduates and a big thank you to everyone involved in making this milestone a success!