Onsite services create a strong family

For the past eight years Guadalupe Gutierrez has called Ames Lake Neighborhood her home. But it’s more than just her home, it’s has become her community. A community she is proud to be a part of.

Originally from Mexico, Gualdalupe and her husband, Jesus, have three children, Juan Pablo – 7 years old, Emily – 5 years old and Jesus Jr. – 1 year old. With a household full of children, the onsite early childhood and out-of-school time programming has been instrumental in helping Guadalupe prepare her children for educational and life success.

Each week, Gualdalupe and Jesus Jr. attend the onsite early childhood education program called Birth to Five. A collaboration between the Montessori Center of Minnesota and Opportunity Neighborhood, the program uses Montessori principles to create opportunities for young children to explore and experience the world as individuals and to become prepared for success not just in academics, but in life. Guadalupe can attest to the positive growth she has seen not only in Jesus Jr., but in all of her children who have attended Birth to Five. Guadalupe shares, “I like how the kids learn skills for everyday life – making food, playing independently with friends. All these things have prepared them for preschool. When Juan Pablo and Emily began pre-school, they were ready. They weren’t fearful and were more independent.”

Grown out of Birth to Five, Juan Pablo and Emily now participate in the onsite year-round out-of-school time. During the school year, Ames After Hours, provides academic, enrichment and recreational activities 4 days a week from 3:00-5:30 p.m. In the summer, a free 9 week summer day camp is provided free of charge to resident families. The 4 day a week camp provides lunch, snacks, fun recreational activities, and the most popular…field trips throughout the Twin Cities. “My kids love participating in the program here! In fact, I can often get them to help around the house by letting them know they may not be able to attend summer camp if they do not help.” says Gualdalupe with a smile. Staying busy making friends and participating in new experiences, Gualdalupe never worries about her kids when they are at the programs. “I know they are at a safe place with responsible adults I can trust.” says Gualdalupe.

A few years ago, Gualdalupe’s husband was laid off from his construction job. With finances tight, the couple considered moving to a different apartment complex on St. Paul’s Eastside to save money. After visiting the complex Gualdalupe saw the value in living at Ames Lake Neighborhood. “The complex was not as safe and the playground was out of the way from the apartment buildings. Here I feel safe and the neighbors are friendly. My kids can go to the playground and I can see them right outside my apartment. My sister lives in a large apartment complex, but her complex is so isolated with no one interacting and no programs for children.” Gualadalupe and Jesus chose to stay at Ames Lake, even though the rent was slightly higher. “You can’t put a price on safety, security and the programs for my children” shares Gualdalupe.