Celebrating Our Parent Ambassadors

On Wednesday, February 15, UnidosNow hosted a special event at the Bayfront Community Center in Sarasota, to honor our Parent Ambassadors.

Eleven participants from the Parent Leadership Program were recognized for their leadership, generous volunteerism, and dedication to serving the Latinx community in Manatee and Sarasota counties. 

Our new Executive Director, Cintia Elenstar, greeted and engaged with our 90 guests. Certificates and gift cards of appreciation were handed out by our special guests, Kathy Schersten, member of the Board of UnidosNow, Michele Guadarrama from Bank of America, and Dr. Erika Díaz-Almeyda from New College of Florida. 

One of our Parent Ambassadors, Juanita Chavez, presented a painting to our Executive Director, Cintia. Entitled: "Hummingbird of Hope," and accomplished at a workshop of UnidosNow parents and the Ringling Museum of Art,  Juanita stated "Unidos Somos Más" or "Together we are Better" as she gave a testimonial about the importance of UnidosNow and collaboration.

All the families present at the Bay Park event received a gift bag of books, donated by the Mexican Embassy in Miami. Tacos were provided by Rocio, a parent who owns a food truck. One of our former Future Leaders Academy Scholars, Jonathan Bruzon, provided the music. As one parent commented, "It was a marvelous evening, full of love and beautiful people."

The Community Foundation of Sarasota County plays a key role in our Parent Leadership program and our two-generation approach in all our programs. Their support is treasured and appreciated.