Meet Patricia and Armando

A driven entrepreneur, dedicated mother, and community member.

“We came to this country to better ourselves,” says Patricia, recalling her journey to the United States in 2006 with her youngest son, Armando. Patricia had a dream to build a business that would provide for her family financially. Without family or friends nearby, she worked independently as a housekeeper for many years. When the COVID-19 pandemic began, she found herself in a financial bind. She had difficulty maintaining existing clientele, let alone growing her business.

Patricia had the drive, but needed support and guidance. That’s when she contacted UpValley Family Centers and enrolled in financial coaching. Through her coaching sessions, Patricia set short-term and long-term goals. She learned new ways to manage her expenses and promote her business. In the process, she was able to save money and grow her clientele, stabilizing her family’s income. While receiving coaching, Patricia learned of a program that could benefit Armando as well, now a young adult at age 22. Armando is currently enrolled in the Construction Training Program through UpValley Family Centers and Napa Valley Adult Education. 

Patricia notes, “I wanted to show my son that if I could do it, so could he.  I wanted to set a good example for him, so he too would work hard.  I might not have much of an inheritance to leave my children, but I hope they inherit the strength to work hard. Life comes with many difficulties and you can’t give up, you have to continue to push and push.”

Success Stories like Patricia’s are made possible thanks to the generous support from Wells Fargo, Napa Valley Community Foundation, Napa Valley Vintners, Redwood Credit Union, Rose Foundation for Communities and the Environment, and United Way of the Bay Area. To learn more about our Economic Success programs, including Financial Coaching, Construction Training & more please call (707) 965-5010.

2021 Community Impact Report

The work of the UpValley Family Centers is made possible by the support of our clients, staff, volunteers, partners, and donors. Thank you for your commitment to building a strong and interconnected community.

Upcoming Events and Announcements:

Alcohol Awareness Month Town Hall

Join UpValley Partnership for Youth, Napa County Office of Education, California Highway Patrol, St. Helena Police Department, Aldea Children & Family Services, & UpValley Family Centers for an Alcohol Awareness Town Hall on Thursday, May 5th from 6:00-7:30 PM at the Carnegie Building in St. Helena  (1360 Oak Ave).

The Town Hall Topics Include:

• Alcohol and the Developing Brain
• Alcohol Facts
• DUI Law
• Tips for Parents

Calistoga Community Schools Initiative Early Childhood Resource Fair

Join us on Friday, May 13 from 4:00-6:00 PM on Berry Field at the Calistoga Elementary School - come learn about preschools, transitional kindergarten, and free early learning resources for 0-5 year olds. 

Niños Activos Children’s Playgroups *NEW Time*

Starting May 2nd, our Niños Activos Children’s Playgroups in St. Helena and Calistoga will be from 9:30-11:30 AM.

We're hiring!

Are you interested in doing meaningful work that strengthens families and the community?  Join our team! We have a handful of open positions across the organization. 

Child Tax Credit 

Missed Tax Day? No problem. There’s still time to get $3,000-$3,600 per child from the Child Tax Credit. Contact us at (707) 965-5010 to file your return and claim your credits.