Courage and Connection for Laura

Every week, Laura sat quietly at the back of the classroom, notebook open, pen in hand. She never missed a session of Advance Community’s Salud con Sabor Latino class, but she rarely spoke. While others chatted easily, she listened and took careful notes but kept her distance from the group.

Behind her calm presence, Laura was struggling with a sensitive issue involving her children. She didn’t know where to turn.

Then Laura learned that Advance’s Stronger Together program connects families to community partners who can help with needs beyond health and nutrition education. Through that program, she was introduced to NotMyKid, an organization that helps parents navigate difficult conversations and challenges with their children. It sounded like exactly what she needed.

That was the connection that changed things for Laura. As the facilitator shared stories and strategies for approaching tough topics, Laura began to nod along, understanding welling in her eyes. When the presentation ended, she stayed behind, hesitated for a moment, and then approached the facilitator. For the first time, she opened up about her own situation, asking for advice and sharing what she had been carrying alone for so long.

That small moment of connection reflected exactly what Stronger Together was created to do: build trust, break down barriers, and connect families with the resources that can truly make a difference.

Laura left that session feeling lighter and more hopeful, knowing she wasn’t alone. She left with a plan and a path forward.

Laura’s story reminds us that the right support changes everything. No one should walk through hard things alone. For others still carrying their struggles in silence, your gift can extend a lifeline… helping families feel seen, supported, and strong enough to take the next step forward together.