Because Alma Magana has been part of the KidWorks team since 1999, she's seen many of the preschoolers she's taught graduate from high school, earn college/university degrees and go on to meaningful careers. In fact, our beloved preschool teacher has a special message for parents who attend graduation ceremonies for their four-year-olds: “Please remember to invite me to your child’s high school and college graduation,” she tells them. I’ll go.” And she does!
Alma started as an after school volunteer at what was then our former Myrtle Street center in Central Santa Ana. She eventually moved to our Dan Donahue Center when it opened in 2005. She’s taught at our state-licensed preschool since then—and is in fact our longest-term employee.
Name: Alma Magaña
Role at KidWorks: KidWorks Teacher and parent.
How did you first become involved with KidWorks?
I started as a volunteer in the 90’s and have since served at KidWorks in a variety of roles including Assistant Director of the Myrtle Center and helped launch the Early Bird Preschool program. Today I proudly serve as a preschool teacher. These roles have allowed me to connect with the students and parents at KidWorks.
Share the most meaningful experiences you’ve had at KidWorks?
In 2012, I chaperoned a group of youth on a week-long backpacking trip through Eureka. We spent the whole day hiking just to get to the camp site, but once we got there it was a blast.
What made them impactful to you?
Anytime you spend a week backpacking with teens, you create memories that last a lifetime.
Can you talk about some of the biggest obstacles KidWorks' programming overcame when you were involved? When KidWorks started, only the youth were involved. Once the families were engaged, it changed the dynamic of our organization and we starting seeing more significant impact.
What does KidWorks mean to you?
KidWorks is more than education, we have the opportunity to pray and serve the families at our center. KidWorks has impacted both myself and my girls, both of whom grew up at KidWorks.
Looking back, how did KidWorks help to shape your life?
I was a young single mom and didn’t have a sense of direction. KidWorks gave me the opportunity to raise my girls while working and earning my degree. My girls were blessed to have so many role models to shape them and I am grateful the impact has had on their lives.
How did KW help to influence the person you are today?
KidWorks has given me a sense of purpose and has served as a huge support system. KidWorks provided so many opportunities such as field trips, and summer camps for me and my little girls. I became an active parent and staff member. For many years KidWorks was our home away from home and continues to be.
What are your dreams for KidWorks over the next 10, 20, or 30 years?
I wish we could replicate KidWorks in different communities across California and ultimately expand across the United States.
Anything else you would like to share about KidWorks?
KidWorks has always been my home and my family. I have learned to love the families we serve. I am grateful for the friends and community that I have experienced over the years.
God has a vision for KidWorks and am confident that he will continue to answer our prayers.