In the Dominican Republic, Heroina owned a small store. When that didn't work out, she returned to the United States. With encouragement from her landlord, she decided to try something new. 

"I never imagined I'd be doing this," she says. "Everything just aligned." 

Running a family childcare program – a small business – has given Heroina stability, purpose, and financial independence. She calls the work a blessing. 

Surprisingly, the pandemic helped. More families needed care, there were more childcare vouchers available, and she found greater flexibility in running her program.  

She also hasn't stopped growing. To better serve children with special needs, Heroina enrolled in classes at Urban College. In childcare, she says, "You're a mother, a psychologist, a teacher." 

Heroina sees herself as part of a team with parents. Together, they work on routines, potty training, and developmental goals. They build lasting bonds. One little girl came to her at six months old and, though now in school, still returns each summer. 

Heroina shares her passion with her two daughters, who now work alongside her and are also part of JPNDC. The job, she says, has changed all of their lives. 

Heroina is especially proud of one of those changes: buying her own home, one that fits both her family and her business. JPNDC is proud of her achievement too, as one of the reasons we run a Family Childcare program is to help early educators build true financial security. Building that security, at the same time, can't work if you don't bring passion to the job. "Give the children love," Heroina says, "You can't do this work without love and patience." 

Learn more about JPNDC Early Education Services.