Across the AVANCE network, chapters are buzzing with excitement as they welcome back staff and kick off the new program year with a flurry of activities and new initiatives.
In Austin, AVANCE has partnered with Human-IT to provide essential technology resources to families, ensuring equitable access to opportunity. This summer, 320 technology devices were made available to support the digital needs of parents, particularly those enrolling in post-secondary education and participating in virtual PCEP cohorts. The Austin chapter also celebrated last year’s success, having served 644 parents and children, with 50 families participating virtually. To usher in the new program year, the full staff was welcomed with comprehensive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training.
Houston’s theme for this year’s Welcome-Back celebration was “AVANCE Knock it out of the park!” Nearly 400 staff members gathered at the Norris Center to reconnect and gear up for the year. The event spanned two days, beginning with a warm welcome from AVANCE CEO Dr. Teresa Granillo via Zoom. Executive Director Luz Flores praised the staff’s resilience through recent challenges, including natural disasters, and highlighted the focus on safety and well-being for the upcoming year. The celebration wrapped up with a Fun Field Day at Constellation Baseball Field, emphasizing team building and community spirit.
In San Antonio, the preservice featured an inspiring session with the Childcare Whisperer to motivate the staff as they dive into the program year. Teachers engaged in fun activities like building robots, and the coveted spirit stick was awarded daily to the site showing the most spirit. Additionally, the chapter welcomed Yesenia Alvarez-Gonzalez as the interim Executive Director. With two decades of experience at AVANCE, Yesenia’s leadership is expected to guide the chapter through an invigorating year of growth and community engagement.
Dallas also kicked off the year with energy and enthusiasm, welcoming back staff with a special appearance by Lisa Oblesby Rocha, the chapter’s first Executive Director. She spoke about the importance of continuing AVANCE’s legacy of success. Dances made the welcome event even more vibrant as the team celebrated the start of another exciting year.
As each chapter of AVANCE embarks on this new year, they carry with them a commitment to helping their communities thrive and providing support to countless families on their journeys. The network’s collective efforts promise a year filled with growth, learning, and impactful achievements.