My name is Marianna Talamante, I am an Early Head Start Teacher at Dora O. Martinez ECDC in Zapata Texas. My journey began as an Early Head Start/Head Start (EHS/HS) parent where I watched the growth and development of my own children flourish. Seeing this, I set a goal to one day be a Teacher and make a difference in a child’s life and give families the opportunities that EHS/HS program gave to me. While my children were in the program, I obtained my certificate and later enrolled back into college to pursue an associate’s degree. While going to school I was also teaching virtually with HS, substituting in the EHS classrooms when teachers were out, and juggling my personal life. At times, I felt overwhelmed and exhausted, but I kept striving towards my goal. By the end of May 2022, I obtained my associates degree and was teaching in EHS for AVANCE. It was a bittersweet moment to know I had accomplished my goal thanks to the support and opportunities AVANCE offered me. AVANCE is a program where our families can seek and receive the support I had. AVANCE gives back to our families by offering support services and quality opportunities for your children while you go out and become a better version of yourself.