Dear LEO Community:

With ongoing reductions to the federal workforce, it is reasonable to be unsure if the programs you and your family rely on are still available. LEO is very much open. Early Head Start and Head Start classrooms are bustling, all branches of Community Services (HEAP/Home Energy Assistance, VITA, Rental Assistance, Food Distribution, Homelessness Supports) are up, operating, and providing opportunities for our community to thrive. We are all in, nothing has changed about how we support, educate and care for our community.

If we know more, we will share more, that is our pledge to our clients, families and staff.

Thank you for trusting LEO Inc.

Birgitta S. Damon, CEO

Climbing the LEO Ladder: Catalina

Catalina saw the merit of an education before she connected with LEO. As a student at North Shore Community College, she needed a place to leave her children while she took classes. A classmate from North Shore was coincidentally employed by LEO; she spoke so highly about the resources for children and families that Catalina felt compelled to pursue the lead.

Once she engaged with LEO’s child care programs, Catalina found there was also a job she could do at the agency, in between her course load, and while the children were at school. She accepted a position in the Transportation office, messaging between drivers, schools and parents to ensure students traveled safely and efficiently. That job would be the first of many at LEO.

Once Catalina graduated North Shore with her first Associate Degree in Management, she decided to return, earning a second Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education. As a student, she worked as a classroom assistant. Ultimately, Catalina set her sights on obtaining her Bachelor’s Degree. When she made this decision, her daughter Clarinet was college age, but wavering in her commitment to higher education. “I told her if I am going you are coming with me!” Together, they made the weekly commute to Bay Path University. Catalina and Clarinet graduated in the same class!

In 2016 Catalina was promoted to Center Manager of the Blossom Head Start Center. She stands out as a role model for her dedication to teaching and learning. “LEO educated me as a professional, but they also made me a better parent. Family comes first with LEO; they always understood when I needed to care for my own children. That is something about the agency I really value.” Beside her eldest, Clarinet (now 25), she is mother to Georgie, Jr., 23, and Gealina, 15.

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