Caregiver Support Providers

 

Belinda Labor

I work with Ellison Center as a Caregiver Support Specialist and also Facilitate Circle of Security with caregivers. Prior to this I was a Home Visiting Teacher, Behavior Support Specialist, and Teaching Assistant. I enjoy working with children and caregivers and making a difference in other people’s lives is something I am passionate about.

I received my AAS degree in Arts and Sciences from the St Cloud Technical and Community College and my Bachelor of Science degree from University of Minnesota.

Leyda Antúnez, MS, IMH-E®

I have been supporting Latino families with young children for more than 10 years. My interest in children’s behaviors started since college, while I was studying and learning more my interest for supporting parents grew even more and because of this, while in college, I worked in child care for about a year and a half to have a first-hand experience. I have been leading community parenting education class for about 10 years and home visits with expecting mothers and parents of children with challenging behaviors. Currently, I am leading parenting education classes with Latino families in Cold Spring, MN.

Through my work with Ellison Center, I facilitate Circle of Security Parenting classes oriented to young Latino mothers and provide Caregiver Support Program home visits with families struggling with their children's behaviors and also with pregnant mothers. I am also part of the Multicultural Advisory Committee at the Ellison Center.

I have a Bachelor’s in Psychology, a Master degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and an Associate Degree in Administration and Computer Sciences from UNITEC, Honduras. I am a Licensed Parent Educator, endorsed Infant Mental Health Specialist, and Circle of Security Parenting facilitator. 

Yoalys Ramos, OB/GYN (Venezuela)

I was born in Naiguata, Vargas state, Venezuela. I graduated as a Surgeon in 2000, and as a Gynecology and Obstetrics Specialist in 2004 at the Central University of Venezuela. I lovingly practiced my profession in my country for 22 continuous years. I am happily married and the mother of 2 wonderful children. I arrived in the United States in 2022. I became certified as a Doula with Everyday Miracles in 2023, and I am working with pregnant women. I love that.

I study English at the Quarry View Education Center. I am one of the coordinators of Camino Contigo, a mental health support group. I volunteer at Fe y Justicia and at the Hispanic Donation Center.

Hodan Omar, MS, LSW

I have over 10 years of experience working with children and families, beginning with community outreach and education initiatives. My work has primarily focused on supporting immigrant families, helping them navigate educational systems, healthcare, and social services.

Currently, I serve as the Executive Director of Hooyo Hour, where I lead programs that promote family engagement, mental health awareness, and community development. A key part of my work focuses on inclusive education, ensuring that families with children who have diverse learning needs receive the support and resources they require.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Community Psychology, a Master’s of Science in Educational Administration and Leadership from Saint Cloud State University, and I am a licensed social worker. My areas of expertise include educational equity, mental health advocacy, and providing culturally responsive care to immigrant communities, particularly within the Somali community.

paola Cardenas

I was born in Mérida, Venezuela. I graduated in Business Administration with a bachelor's and master's degree in Management Sciences. I am the mother of three children: one who is 15, one who is 9, and a little 3-year-old girl. My greatest challenge is combining my professional and personal experience to support parents and caregivers in strengthening secure and healthy bonds with their children.

Since my arrival in the United States in December 2020, I fell in love with the opportunities this country offers. In 2021, I began working with the Latino community through nonprofit organizations, connecting families with essential resources to improve their quality of life in this city.

Additionally, I am a writer, speaker, student of Positive Psychology, and creator of the after-school program "Brillantemente," designed to promote the development and well-being of children and their families.