To share another glimpse into our Better Together Program, we interviewed Rosio, a mother participating in the program with her son, Leonardo. The 2017 fall session, taking place at Green Bay Elementary School in North Chicago, began September 7 and continues until December 21.

HOW HAS THE BETTER TOGETHER PROGRAM BENEFITED YOU AND YOUR SON?

In a lot of ways. First and foremost, my child knows a lot more. He has learned how to be with other kids and is surrounded by other adults other than myself. For me, it has given me more time to dedicate to him.

WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU SEEN IN YOUR SON?

Now he likes to read. With the support of our teacher, Ms. Sharon, I have learned several new approaches to help him like being read to.

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM FOR YOUR SON?

I want him to be a successful man in every sense and to be a good man.

WHICH SESSION HAS BEEN THE MOST IMPACTFUL AND HOW DID IT BENEFIT YOUR SON?

All of them have been good, but the most impactful one was the first session. I remember coming to the classroom and being marveled by everything both my son and I saw; it was a new experience for both of us. He was very curious and especially enjoyed the art area. It was something new and beautiful. He was very happy.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU'D LIKE TO MENTION?

I’m very appreciative of the teacher, Ms. Sharon, and the two staff members from United Way of Lake County, Ms. Rosa and Ms. Katherine, because they all observe and want to help me. I always enjoy that they have something new at every session and I learn new ideas to teach my son.

To read our past Better Together blog posts and learn more about the program, click here.