For Beatriz Alvarado, Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL) provides more than early learning opportunities for her children. Through parenting resources and ongoing support, she has gained tools that help her grow as a parent and share what she has learned with her family. And now, she’s giving back. From helping in classrooms to supporting community partnerships, she finds meaningful ways to make a difference. Beatriz agreed to answer some questions about her experience with KCSL.
How did you become connected to KCSL?
In 2021, I enrolled my son, Leonel, in KCSL’s early childhood education services. At the time, I was looking for a way to help him prepare for school to get the best possible start. My mom recommended KCSL. The enrollment process was very smooth, which made me feel confident we had made the right choice. What started as support for my son grew into a connection for our entire family. This year, Leonel is in third grade, and my daughter, Eliana, is currently enrolled with KCSL. We also plan to enroll my youngest daughter, Rosalie.
What kind of volunteer activities have you done with KCSL?
I’ve volunteered in a variety of ways over the years. As a parent volunteer, I helped bring snacks, clean up classrooms, take out trash, sanitize toys and support events as needed. I’ve also helped organize brochures and informational materials and prepare backpacks for children getting ready to start kindergarten. These may seem like small tasks, but I know they make a big difference in helping families feel prepared and supported. Over the past year, my volunteer role has grown through Landmark National Bank. After moving into the role of bank manager, I’ve taken on more responsibility in maintaining and strengthening Landmark’s partnership with KCSL. I focus on supporting collaborative efforts and making sure we’re actively engaged with the KCSL community.
What motivated you to volunteer with KCSL?
Volunteering has always been something I enjoy. What really motivates me to volunteer with KCSL is the positive impact the agency has had on my family. Over the years, we’ve gained so much through your services, from early childhood education to parenting support. The parent meetings have been especially helpful because they give me tools I can use at home and share with other family members. Giving back to an organization that has given so much to us just feels like the right thing to do.
Why is volunteering with KCSL important to you?
I know how much families rely on KCSL’s services, and I enjoy doing anything I can to help. Even small acts of service contribute to the bigger picture. Whether I’m helping prepare materials or supporting the partnership between Landmark and KCSL, I know my time is helping children, families and staff. I’ve also always enjoyed being around children and watching them grow. Knowing the kids benefit from these efforts makes volunteering especially meaningful.
What successes have you noticed from your family’s experience with KCSL?
I’ve seen incredible growth in my children because of KCSL. When Eliana first started, I felt she wasn’t talking much or expressing herself. After joining the program, I noticed a huge difference. She opened up, became more expressive and quickly adapted to a routine. I’ve seen her confidence continue to grow. It’s been amazing to watch. I’ve recommended KCSL to friends and families who were having difficulty finding reliable child care. I’ve seen firsthand how valuable the program is, not only for children’s development but also for the peace of mind it gives parents.
Why would you encourage others to volunteer with KCSL?
It’s a great way to give back and be part of something meaningful. You get to work alongside people who truly care about helping children and families, and your time can directly support the future of our community. Whether you have a personal connection to KCSL or not, volunteering is an opportunity to make a difference, one child and one family at a time.
