Jessica wanted what so many mothers want—a better life for herself and her children.

Facing medical challenges ranging from memory loss to seizures caused by preeclampsia years ago, as well as a learning disability, she was nevertheless determined to go back to school for her nursing degree. At the same time, she also knew she would need support to provide her children with the opportunities and resources necessary to thrive.

That’s when she found Children’s Home Society of Washington.

“After starting my classes at Highline Community College,” Jessica said, “people in the women’s program there and several other parents told me how much CHSW’s services helped them.”

Those services have made a world of difference for Jeanessa, Jessica’s 6-year-old daughter, and Jason, her 3-year-old son.

Jeanessa started CHSW’s early learning program at Highline Early Learning Center and graduated to the ECEAP program last year; Jessica and Jason went through CHSW’s prenatal program, participating in home visits where parents learn how to boost child development through play activities. Jason also is enrolled in CHSW’s early learning program.

Both Jeanessa and Jason face challenges of their own: Jeanessa has epilepsy and needs speech and occupational therapy, while Jason has developmental delays. After a CHSW referral to a children’s therapy center, however, they have shown steady progress.

“Jeanessa and Jason have really advanced, thanks to these programs and referrals,” Jessica said. “They fell in love with the educators at CHSW’s Highline Early Learning Center, and I know they are in great hands.”

Jessica has found support, too. “CHSW has helped me get food and diapers, and also learn about other services I could qualify for to meet my emotional and physical needs,” she said. “From day one, it felt like a family environment—and staff always keeps me informed about what my children are learning and how they are doing. That’s really important, because I want to be as involved as possible.”

She’s gotten involved with CHSW, too, first serving as an intern at the South King County Resource Center through Seattle’s WorkFirst program, where she referred families to services and food and clothing banks. Jessica also served on CHSW’s Policy Council for five years before becoming a parent ambassador, sharing her experience with others and helping them navigate the world of family services.

“CHSW involves families at every level, and if I ever needed something or wanted someone to talk to me, the staff heard me and listened,” she said. “They always pointed me in the right direction, so I wanted to help families and give back.”

She’s also well on her way to achieving her own goals—Jessica is working at local clinics and studying in the nursing program at Highline.

“I tell everyone about what CHSW has done for my family,” she said. “Their resources have helped in so many different ways—they really want us to succeed.”