Moonlight Ball 2023: Transforming Communities

ECS supporters gather together at the Moonlight Ball gala. May 2023.

SAN DIEGO — We are humbled by the overwhelming outpour of compassion and generosity that radiated throughout the evening as ECS friends and supporters rallied together to support our services and programs.

ECS leadership enjoy the event. May 2023.

We are profoundly grateful for the overwhelming response and the remarkable turnout we witnessed. Each guest who honored us with their presence showcased an unwavering dedication to breaking barriers and transforming communities. Your collective support has left an indelible mark that fuels our determination to continue making a lasting impact, and for that, we are eternally thankful.

A fun filled evening focused on continuing ECS’ mission to break barriers and transform communities. May 2023.

ECS CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons, Mayor Todd Gloria, and ECS Assoc. Director of Strategic Partnerships Angel Ibarra pose for a photo at the gala. May 2023.

CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons' Thursday Visits

SAN DIEGO — Our CEO, Elizabeth Fitzsimons, continued her weekly tradition of Thursday visits, this time to our Harbison Head Start Center.

Leading by example, ECS CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons connects with the dedicated staff at Harbison Head Start. May 2023.

Each Thursday, Fitzsimons makes it a priority to personally connect with our various programs, embodying the essence of leadership and demonstrating the importance of engagement across all levels of our organization. Her visits are a testament to her commitment and a reminder that every role, individual, and child matters in fulfilling the mission of Episcopal Community Services.

Her attendance is more than just a leadership visit – it demonstrates our belief that everyone has a role in fostering an abundant and equitable society where all have unlimited potential.

As a team, we strive to make this vision a reality, and we invite you to join us by visiting www.ecscalifornia.org to learn more.

Elizabeth Fitzsimons and a Head Start student work together diligently to construct a creative project. May 2023.

A Head Start student impresses CEO Elizabeth Fitzsimons with their jumping skills. May 2023.

ECS Head Start Collaborates with the Empathy in Nature Project

SAN DIEGO — In April, ECS Head Start had the opportunity to partner with the Empathy in Nature Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing social-emotional, nature-based preschool education. As a result of this collaboration, an "Empathy Garden" was created at Highland Head Start in National City.

North end of the Highland Head Start Empathy Garden where children will connect with nature and watch the garden grow. April 2023.

This outdoor learning environment provides children with the opportunity to explore and play in nature, fostering a love of the environment and promoting social-emotional development. The garden's opening was attended by Head Start staff and supporters, who were thrilled to see the fruits of their labor. They were able to walk around and explore the garden, which is filled with various natural elements that encourage curiosity and discovery.

Thanks to the Empathy in Nature Project and their partnership with ECS Head Start, children now have access to a safe and inclusive space to connect with nature and learn valuable skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. The "Empathy Garden" is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of providing children with accessible and inclusive high-quality early childhood education.

VP of Administration Hazzy Pipo, Interim Head Start Director Linda Borja, Head Start District Manager Nerissa Torralba, Area Supervisor Joan Borgonia, Family Engagement Specialist Heidi Avent, and the Empathy in Nature Project team members gather for a picture next to a treasure chest donated to Highland Head Start full of teaching materials. April 2023.

Mayor John McCann's Memorable Visit to St. John's Head Start Center

Recently, our ECS Head Start St. John's center had the honor of hosting Chula Vista's Mayor, John McCann. This memorable day was a unique opportunity for our students to interact with a prominent local government figure and a valuable platform for ECS to demonstrate our critical role in our community.

Our CEO, Elizabeth Fitzsimons, Associate Director Angel Ibarra, Area Supervisor Joan Borgonia, and the devoted St. John's Head Start team provided Mayor McCann with a comprehensive overview of our work. They explained the specifics of our Head Start programs, showcased St. John's accomplishments, and highlighted the substantial impact we've made in the community.

Mayor McCann's active engagement with our students and genuine interest in our work left a lasting impression and are deeply appreciated. His visit reaffirmed the crucial role that partnerships play in strengthening our community.

Chula Vista Mayor John McCann with St. John’s Head Start students. April 2023.