We are extremely proud of Carolina Balladares, our Watch Me Grow and Family Resource Center manager, for receiving the Spotlight on Excellence Award from First 5 San Mateo County. The Spotlight on Excellence Award is presented for exceptional contributions made to San Mateo County children under the age of five and their families by a group or individual.

Since joining Gatepath in 2010, Carolina has worked strategically – and tirelessly – with families and community-based organizations to build awareness of the importance of developmental screenings for children 0-5. The relationships she’s built with and between health care providers has strengthened the network of care for children who have developmental concerns. As a testament to her impact, more than 5,000 children under the age of five have received FREE online or in-person screenings in San Mateo County during Carolina’s tenure as the manager of Gatepath’s Watch Me Grow program.

Carolina has also had a deep impact on family engagement and connectivity in the community through her work with both Watch Me Grow and Gatepath’s Family Resource Center. From launching Tu y Yo developmental playgroups to overseeing the expansion of  Family Resource Center services to underserved populations in Half Moon Bay and East Palo Alto, Carolina recognizes the importance of connecting families within their own communities to build natural networks of support.

Carolina is a compassionate and dedicated leader who understands the needs of children with diverse abilities and the value of inclusion for those children and their families. Her ability to adapt to change and establish strong connections and partnerships in many communities has resulted in expanding the work that First 5 funds beyond what we previously thought possible.

Congratulations, Carolina, on a well-deserved Spotlight on Excellence Award!