Redemption: From 30-Year Prison Term to Recovery at CERRC

Eladio, CERRC client. April 2023.

Eladio arrived in the United States from Cuba in the 1980s and spent over 30 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute cocaine. After his release, Eladio faced significant challenges in adapting to life on the outside; he battled with alcohol abuse to cope with the loss of his ex-wife and struggled with the difficulties of societal reentry.

Despite these challenges, Eladio remained determined to turn his life around. He contacted CERRC, which provided him with the support and resources to address his addiction and rebuild his life.

Eladio recalls, “I prayed every day [for] a second chance at life. God heard my prayers, and I was awakened one day and told it was time to go. I can’t express what it feels like to have spent 30-plus years in prison and walk free.”

With the help of CERRC, Eladio was able to obtain a state ID, secure funding through the cash assistance program for immigrants, acquire a work permit, and begin the lengthy process of obtaining his U.S. citizenship, which has given him a newfound sense of hope for the future.

Eladio’s story highlights the many challenges former inmates face when reintegrating into society, especially those with a history of addiction. However, it also demonstrates the transformative power of second chances and the importance of compassionate and dedicated support in helping individuals rebuild their lives after incarceration.

Stacie Perez Receives Women of Influence 50 Over 50 Honors from San Diego Business Journal

SAN DIEGO — ECS celebrates the recent recognition of our very own Stacie Perez, VP of Programs, as one of San Diego Business Journal's Women of Influence 50 Over 50 Honorees. Perez received the distinguished award on Tuesday, April 25, acknowledging her hard work, dedication, and leadership within the community.

CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons & VP Hazzy Pipo celebrate VP Stacie Perez’s award at the ceremony. April 2023.

Perez's unwavering commitment to positively impacting countless individuals' lives has been truly inspiring. As a key leader at ECS, Perez has played an instrumental role in driving the organization's mission forward and ensuring the successful delivery of various programs.

The San Diego Business Journal's Women of Influence 50 Over 50 Honorees list celebrates influential women who have made significant contributions to their industries and communities. Perez's inclusion in this esteemed group is a testament to her dedication and accomplishments.

Episcopal Community Services congratulates Stacie Perez on this well-deserved recognition and eagerly anticipates her continued contributions to the organization and the community as a whole.

Award recipients smile for the camera for a group photo. April 2023.

ECS Head Start Hosts Successful ‘Day of the Child’ Event

Joan Borgonia, Head Start Area Supervisor, engaging with attendees. April 2023.

CHULA VISTA, Calif. — ECS Head Start hosted a successful Day of the Child event on Saturday, April 22, at Memorial Park in Chula Vista. The free family event aimed to connect families with valuable resources promoting the safety, health, and well-being of children in the community.

The event featured a multitude of engaging and informative booths from various organizations, providing attendees with an abundance of useful information and services. Families enjoyed a wide range of entertaining activities, including a car show, face painting, captivating performances, dance contests, puppet shows, magic acts, storytime sessions, and games.

The Day of the Child event introduced kids and families to healthy and interactive activities while raising awareness about the numerous services available within the community. Attendees had a memorable experience, learning, playing, and connecting in a fun and supportive environment.

Families enjoying the festivities at the Day of the Child event. April 2023.

Twins: Building Trust & Overcoming Challenges Together

A mother, feeling overwhelmed by her twin daughters' struggles with emotional dependency and developmental milestones, turned to Para Las Familias (PLF) for support.

Twin sisters share a warm embrace. April 2023.

The family embarked on a remarkable journey as they participated in weekly play therapy sessions, under the caring guidance of Itzel, a dedicated PLF therapist. These sessions were designed to address the twins' emotional dependency and developmental hurdles through trust-building activities and targeted strategies. Itzel helped the twins normalize using the restroom and addressed their clingy behavior, while simultaneously empowering their mother with the confidence to support her children.

Itzel spoke highly of the family's progress, stating, "the most important piece with this family is knowing that the mom has confidence in her ability to support her children. The growth they have experienced goes beyond overcoming initial challenges, extending to a much healthier and secure relationship between the mother and her daughters."

The twins' journey highlights the positive influence of PLF’s tailored approach, resolving challenges and fostering a secure family environment for a brighter future.