Goals. Dreams. A Future.
Veronica's journey is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering determination. Despite the trials she faced growing up in a community marked by hardship and adversity, Veronica never let go of her dreams. In the midst of uncertainty and scarcity, she found solace and hope in the welcoming embrace of Sunnyside.
Recalling moments of struggle with a poignant clarity, Veronica reminisces about the times when her mother worried about their safety and wondered where their next meal would come from. Yet, amidst these challenges, Veronica found sanctuary at Sunnyside—a beacon of light in her darkest days.
“There were so many times where my mom and I were struggling and I didn't know where my next meal was going to come from but I knew no matter what I would always have something to eat here.” Veronica recalls. “I had a safe space to go because Sunnyside was open.”
From her earliest days at Sunnyside, as a preschooler, Veronica was met with kindness and compassion, particularly from Sister Raphael, whose gentle guidance helped her navigate the complexities of childhood. These experiences, rooted in empathy and understanding, left an indelible mark on Veronica's heart.
“Every day Sister Raphael would help me do a puzzle and it helped with my fine motor skills.”
Now, as she looks to her own future, Veronica's journey has come full circle. No longer defined by the obstacles she faced, she is driven by a sense of purpose and a deep-seated passion for working with children. Sunnyside, once her refuge, has become her workplace—a testament to her resilience and the transformative power of love and support.
For Veronica, Sunnyside is more than just a daycare center—it is a sanctuary, a nurturing environment where she learned to dream, to aspire, and to believe in herself. It is a place where she found not only safety and comfort but also the inspiration to pursue her dreams.
“Working with kids is definitely something I've always wanted to do and it's just so amazing that I get to do it at the same place where I grew up,” said Veronica. “Sunnyside is that kind of place where you feel comfortable with whoever you are with and you never feel unwelcome. So it really helped me grow as a person.”