In the fall of 2024, KCSL parent Sara Delgadillo was named the Healthy Families America Parent Graduate of the Year. Sara’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, community support and a commitment to building a better future for herself and her family.
From Adversity to Achievement
A single mother of four daughters, Sara’s life has been marked by significant challenges and remarkable triumphs. At just 15-years-old, she found herself unhoused living in her car. In her 20s, she lost custody of her three oldest daughters due to struggles with substance use. However, Sara’s story is not one of defeat but of determination. After completing inpatient treatment, she regained custody of her children and worked tirelessly to rebuild her life with the support of KCSL’s early childhood home visiting program.
Sara’s path to success took time and effort, but through her determination, she achieved countless milestones. She completed treatment, got sober and found stable housing for her family. Sara also earned certifications as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), furthering her career in the medical field. She is now enrolled in the Licensed Practical Nurse program and is set to graduate in May 2025.
Empowering Families Through Support and Guidance
KCSL’s support played a crucial role in Sara’s transformation. By providing guidance, encouragement and connecting her with vital resources, KCSL empowered Sara and her daughters to build a stronger, more connected family. Weekly home visits with Mary Dutton, KCSL family specialist, gave Sara the emotional support she needed during difficult times and offered practical advice on parenting and recovery. Her accomplishments and unwavering determination to improve her life and her daughters’ futures have earned her national recognition as a Parent Graduate of the Year. But to Sara, the real victory is the bond she has built with her daughters and the hope she has for their future. Sara’s advice to other parents facing struggles is simple yet powerful.
“Join KCSL no matter where you are in your life,” Sara said. “Take that first step and they will help you grow into a better parent and help you build an amazing and strong family. This program completely changed my life, and I am forever grateful for the blessings it continues to bring even though we’ve graduated.”
Today, Sara continues to inspire others through her story of resilience demonstrating that no challenge is too great to overcome with persistence, support and a willingness to change. Congratulations, Sara! You are truly an inspiration to all.
