El Sol
El Sol Neighborhood Education Center’s first graduating class of Home Visitor Apprentices.

Smiles, cheers and a sense of accomplishment filled the room as El Sol Neighborhood Education Center’s first class of Home Visitor Apprentices walked across the stage to receive their certificates. The graduation ceremony celebrated the apprentices’ achievements and the growing impact of El Sol’s Home Visitation Institute, made possible through the visionary support of First 5 San Bernardino.

What began in 2007 as a single grant for a postpartum education and referral program has grown into one of First 5 San Bernardino’s most impactful partnerships. From the start, El Sol and First 5 San Bernardino shared a vision: empower families through culturally responsive, community-based support.

That vision deepened in 2015 with the launch of a Home Visitation program in the High Desert, tailored to meet families where they are — literally and figuratively! Through one-on-one visits, trusted community health workers provided guidance, resources and a listening ear right in the comfort of families’ homes.

“We are deeply grateful for the bold leadership of First 5 San Bernardino,” said Tania Martinez, Program Director for El Sol Neighborhood Education Center. “Their belief in community-based solutions is helping to shape a future where every family has the support they need to thrive.”

The partnership reached a milestone in 2023 with the creation of El Sol’s Home Visitation Institute, funded by First 5 San Bernardino. This innovative program trains local parents, caregivers and community leaders to become skilled Home Visitors. Apprentices complete 32 units of coursework and receive hands-on training that includes delivering essential services and connecting parents to critical resources. Congratulations to El Sol’s graduating class who are now trusted advocates in their neighborhoods!