Sixteen years ago, I discovered Brighton Center through a simple paper ad pinned to a bulletin board at the library. Technology wasn’t like it is today; you couldn’t just hop online to find programs and resources. That ad introduced me to Every Child Succeeds (ECS), which I joined while pregnant with my first child. I loved the program, it guided me through the changes my body and baby were experiencing each month, and gave me confidence as a first-time parent.
My partner and I attended sessions together. The information and support helped ease our fears about becoming parents and gave us the tools to navigate this new chapter. I especially loved the activities we did with our baby once she was born. The program even provided monthly books, family events, and holiday gatherings, complete with dinner, activities, and gifts for the kids. The support didn’t stop there; Brighton Center offered small but memorable perks, like Easter outfits and pajamas. These thoughtful touches truly made a difference. ECS connected me to another life-changing program when my first child turned two: a first-time Homebuyer Workshop. This class taught me all about homeownership, and after saving $2,000, Brighton Center matched my savings. With their guidance, I secured a loan through Rural Home Loan and moved from the trailer I’d lived in since I was 18 to a house we’re still proud to call home 13 years later.
A few years later, I learned about Brighton Center’s Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) program and enrolled. The weekly curriculum offers creative, engaging activities that I wouldn’t think of on my own, many centered around reading. I love teaching my kids new things and spending time with them, and HIPPY helps me do just that. As adults, life often gets busy, but this program reminds me to slow down and enjoy those precious moments with my children. Recently, we even participated in a Kentucky Education Television (KET) program through a partnership with Brighton Center that provided dinner and science activities each week. It was such a wonderful way for our family to spend time together, trying new foods and doing fun things, like an exciting family outing each week.
Just before COVID, my teenage daughter joined the Youth Leadership Development (YLD) program, where she attended weekly meetings, activities, and field trips. From farm visits to skiing trips, she truly enjoyed the experience. Even during COVID, she continued participating in a virtual bike program, which kept her engaged and active.
In June 2024, I welcomed my seventh baby, and I’m back in ECS again! Even as an experienced parent, I love the chance to learn more about my baby’s development and to connect with our Home Visitor. The crafts and discussions we share are so valuable, reminding me that there’s always something new to learn. Brighton Center has given so much to our family, from essentials like diapers to the priceless memories we’ve made through these programs.
My hopes and dreams are simple: for my family to be happy and thrive. Right now, I’m enrolled in ECS with my five-month-old son and HIPPY with my three-year-old daughter, and I’m so grateful for these resources. I look forward to the programs Brighton Center will offer in the future—programs that uplift families and build communities. Thank you, Brighton Center, for being a constant source of support and inspiration for my family.
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