Early Learning Specialist
Diana joined the GUH team in August 2021. She is a Rice County ParentChild+ Early Learning Specialist.
Where did you grow up, and how long have you lived in Northfield?
I was born and raised in San Francisco. I’ve lived in Northfield for the past five years. I attended St. Olaf College and have stayed in town since graduation.
What is your educational and/or work background?
I graduated from St. Olaf in May of 2020 with a degree in social work and concentrations in family studies and race and ethnic studies. I’ve worked in youth development for more than five years, here in Northfield and in San Francisco. Before starting the job with Growing Up Healthy, I was an AmeriCorps Promise Fellow for the Greenvale Park Community School (during the 2020-21 school year). I worked primarily with middle school students, fostering their emotional and social connections through afterschool and evening programming. During college, I had an internship with the Community Action Center of Northfield.
Why did you take this job with GUH/HCI?
I enjoy working with families and youth, helping them to navigate resources. The collaborative effort that goes toward accomplishing those goals is exciting. Through this role, I will continue to serve Northfield families.
What are your main job responsibilities?
I conduct weekly home visits to families with children between the ages of 1 and 4 years. Through these home visits, I deliver books and introduce toys. I also connect families to community resources as needed.
What do you like most about the job?
I like working with families on an individual basis. Relationship building and establishing trust is an important part of this role.
What’s the most challenging part of your job?
Navigating consistent communication with families as COVID continues to impact them in different ways.
What are your hopes and dreams for the community where you work?
I hope that collaborative work between organizations in Rice County continues to grow. That’s something that has helped clients access resources.
What do you do for fun?
I enjoy spending time with my friends and family. I also enjoy traveling to new places. I haven’t explored much of Minnesota – yet!
Growing Up Healthy 