For over years, AVANCE-San Antonio has proven that a small investment in at-risk families with young children yields long-term results and impact.

AVANCE works! It changes lives; it strengthens families and strengthens communities. As a result, the standard of living for AVANCE families is improved, the quality of life is enhanced, and young children are provided a healthy start.

Founded in 1973, Avance-San Antonio is an organization that has been building families and community in San Antonio for the last years. AVANCE is based on the premise that education begins when a child is born and that parents must be their child’s first and most important teacher. AVANCE facilitates change: first, in parents, then in their young children, family and home. The change AVANCE makes in today’s families dramatically impacts future generations. The purpose of the AVANCE program is to develop strong and stable families, healthy children, and promote economic self-sufficiency in families.

Mother of the Year Luncheon

Alma Ramos Ayala graduated from the Parent-Child Education Program in 2005. She obtained her Bachelor degree in Education from Texas A&M in San Antonio on December 2012.  For the past 20 years she has been dreaming of obtaining her legal residency status.  She has been an outstanding citizen and has provided her children with love and nurturing.  As of January 17, 2013, Alma was notified that her, legal status had been reviewed and approved.  This was the best news of her life.  In addition, as of January 31, 2013 she was offered a teaching position in the San Antonio ISD teaching science to middle school students. She is thankful to the AVANCE staff for all the support they have provided to her during the most challenging years of her life.

Parents Positive Results

• 88% increased their knowledge on child development and enhanced parenting skills
• 96% increased reading three or more times to their child
• 58% increase in parents employed full time

AVANCE children experience positive outcomes from birth to three years old:

• 94% reflect education gains upon completion of the program
• 98% are prepared to enter school ready for their age level

AVANCE children experience positive outcomes from Pre-K through 12th grade:

• 95% Passed Math and Reading
• 82% Developed on TPRI screening
• 94% Advanced High School
• 92% School Attendance
• 94% A & B Honor Roll
• 92% Parental Involvement