Women’s Month Spotlight: Sandra Aispuro
International Women’s History Month is an opportunity to recognize and honor the achievements of women past and present, while advocating for a more fair future for people of all genders. Para Los Niños’ Board of Directors is made up of a diverse group of individuals from several industries and varying backgrounds, but today, we want to shine a light on our incredible Vice Chair, Sandra Aispuro.
From Uncertainty to Opportunity: Antonio Hernandez’s Path Forward
On July, 2024, Antonio Hernandez enrolled in PLN YouthSource program seeking direction, stability, and an opportunity to create a better future for himself and his family. Having experienced personal challenges that reshaped his outlook on life, he made a conscious decision not to be defined by his past. Instead, he committed himself to accountability, growth, and long-term success. What once felt uncertain has become a powerful example of resilience and determination.
Preparing for What’s Next: How Youth Workforce Services Supports College and Career Journeys
For young people navigating college applications or stepping into their first professional experiences, the path forward can feel overwhelming, especially for students who are the first in their families to pursue higher education. Through Para Los Niños’ Youth Workforce Services (YWS), students are met exactly where they are, with personalized guidance, practical tools, and trusted relationships that help turn uncertainty into confidence.
PLN Community Note: Food Support for Families
You may have heard that, due to the government shutdown, benefits such as CalFresh (SNAP) will be delayed for the month of November. We want you to know that the wellbeing of our PLN community is our top priority, and we are here to support you if you are impacted by these delays.
“You’re Not Here to Fix Them; You’re Here to Grow with Them.”
Viridiana Hernandez didn’t set out to become a therapist. She studied business at San Diego State and imagined a different kind of future. But life has a way of revealing where you're meant to be — especially for someone as compassionate, intuitive, and determined as Viridiana.
“Learning in Disguise”: How Sindy Lopez Builds Joy and Belonging After School
When the final bell rings at Para Los Niños Charter Middle School, the day doesn’t end. It simply shifts into something new. Students spill out of classrooms toward soccer games, robotics projects, and art activities. Amidst it all is Sindy Lopez, greeting students by name, checking in on how they’re doing, and offering snacks from her office.
Finding Strength: Silvia’s Journey to Healing and Family Resilience
Silvia receives mental health support at Para Los Niños. Her journey with PLN began after her daughter relapsed into drug use, prompting social services to intervene and ultimately requiring her to leave their home. This prompted Silvia to make a crucial decision about whether she would be able to foster her grandchildren. Ultimately, she chose to take on this responsibility.
“It’s Not Just Housing, It’s Everything”: How Early Childhood Education Supports Families Facing Instability
Marisol didn’t just need a school. She needed someone to listen. When she applied to Para Los Niños’ Early Education program online, it was out of hope. Hope that her two boys, Diego and Elias, could be in a safe, nurturing place while she worked toward her goals as both a student and single mother. She was connected with a Family Specialist at PLN’s Cypress Early Education Center, and from that point on, her family found something more than preschool. They found a community.
