I remember Rosa Leon from the Sunday Friends programs, starting back when she joined in 2014. I remember that she was a loving mother, an attentive student, and a hard worker. What I didn’t know back then was how her story had started and how it would develop after I retired from Sunday Friends about four years later. How exhilarating for me to learn more of her story today!

How did Rosa learn about Sunday Friends? She actually overheard someone talking about the program and went to the internet to search and find it. At that time, she had a 3-year-old son and no job, although she had a history of working as a “home maid” and doing some childcare. But she and her husband struggled and Rosa wanted more in her life and for her family. She wanted to be able to buy her child shoes when he needed them. So, she gathered the when-and-where about Sunday Friends and courageously showed up with her family.

In an essay she wrote within the program back in 2017 (I have saved it all these years), Rosa shared that she was “achieving strength and learning dedication” through the program and through the Sunday Friends community. “Coming to this program has helped me meet other parents and also learn about their experiences and strategies that they have done to educate their children. I can also see the example in other families and this way try to take the good things that can help me have a better relationship and communicate with my children.” She added, “I am very grateful to this amazing program because they worry about our community and our well being.”

Well, now Rosa is one of the people who “worry” about their community and the well being of others. She has become a Sunday Friends staff member!

Rosa could hardly believe it. She applied for the job of Bilingual Client Outreach but was stunned when Andy, the Director of Programs, chose her. Andy shares that he recognized her talent and saw that she was one to take initiative. He appreciated her deep and genuine connection with the Sunday Friends community and her desire to be of service to the community. And he hired her. 

Rosa’s job now is to recruit, welcome, and orient new families to the program. She goes out into the community to share information and answer questions about Sunday Friends. When a new family shows an interest, she helps them register. She gives them a tour, explains everything from how you earn “points” to how you log in to the online classes and how your points help you access the goods you need. At Community Day gatherings, she introduces them to members who have volunteered to be part of the welcoming committee. In addition, Rosa plays a role in crafting and sending bilingual announcements to members through Google Classroom. She says, “Sometimes I’m afraid because I’m still learning, but I get to love the people and they get to love us. I feel great for the people who really get to see what the program is. They are grateful for what they get, grateful for the volunteer opportunities. I want to say thank you for making it for me to help other people.”

I asked Rosa how her feelings about herself have changed since she rose to the staff position. She said, “Now I can help support the family. I can buy shoes for my children. This work is helping me to grow up a little. I am so grateful and so happy.”

And, in addition to working and caring for her children, ages 13, 8, and 2, Rosa is taking classes online towards a bachelors degree in Professional Studies. She reports slow but steady progress. She explained that she wants to be prepared for whatever might be ahead. “You never know.”

Rosa, thank you for being a shining example for so many in our community. We wish you and your family all the success and joy that you have worked so steadfastly to achieve. We love you back.

-Janis, 08/2025