Return to Articles

5.01.2025

Empowering Parents: Angela's Journey with First 5 Nevada’s Family Leadership Council

Angela Oscanoa standing with her family in a hot air ballon field. Multiple hot air balloons in the air behind them.

Angela, a mother of two, Iker (4) and Angela Emily (18 months), has found her calling as an advocate for early childhood education and family leadership through her involvement with First 5 Nevada’s Family Leadership Council. Her story exemplifies the transformative power of community resources and parent leadership.

Angela joined the Family Leadership Council over a year ago and credits the program with providing resources vital to her family's well-being. From early childhood education support to health and nutrition resources, the Family Leadership Council has empowered Angela to pursue opportunities that benefit her children and herself, including advancing her education and language skills.

"The first five years are crucial," Angela shared, "They shape a child's future. This program has motivated me and my family to find resources that support their health, nutrition, and education."

Angela’s commitment to leadership began at a workshop, where she learned about First 5 Nevada’s initiatives. Inspired by the vision of empowering families, she and her sister decided to join First 5 Nevada’s Family Leadership Council. Since then, Angela has embraced her role as a parent leader—advocating for families, sharing her experiences, and learning from other parents.

She believes that parent leadership plays a pivotal role in children’s development: "Children imitate what their parents do. If we, as parents, lack the confidence to speak or participate, it becomes harder for children to excel. It's vital for us to motivate them to share their opinions and engage with others."

Angela’s participation in the council has not only enriched her family’s life but also extended to her involvement in her children’s school council. Through advocacy and collaboration, she continues to inspire families to access resources and embrace leadership roles.

For Angela, the Family Leadership Council is more than a support group—it’s a space for mutual learning and growth. "Joining this group has been transformative. We share experiences, learn from one another, and discover ways to improve our parenting. It’s about coming together to help our children thrive."

Parenting and Family Support

Related News

Adult female smiling at camera, holding a toddler in her lap while sitting in a cozy home setting.
Health and Safety Parenting and Family Support
Mother’s Day and Maternal Mental Health
Read More

At First 5 Nevada, we believe supporting moms, dads and caregivers during the early years helps children grow strong, safe and healthy. This month, we honor all moms and caregivers and share tools and support to help families feel less alone.

Adult female holding toddler in her arms looking at the toddler and smiling. In a comfy house setting.
Parenting and Family Support
Children’s Cabinet Spotlight: Why Supporting Employees Means Supporting Families
Read More

Work is an important part of life. But for many employees, especially those with young children, balancing work and home life can be challenging. The Employer Support Program from The Children's Cabinet doesn’t expect employees to figure everything out on their own, rather this program helps businesses create workplaces that better support the real lives of their employees.

Two little kids sitting at a table in a home setting, painting easter eggs and one is wearing easter bunny ears.
Parenting and Family Support Food and Nutrition
Hopping Into a Healthy Easter: Fun Activities and Tasty Tips for Families with Young Children
Read More

Spring weather, bright colors and playful traditions make Easter a great chance to create happy memories with your little ones. For families with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, Easter can also be a fun time to practice healthy habits - without giving up the fun. Read here for easy ways to celebrate Easter while supporting your child’s growth, learning and well-being.


Sign Up for the First 5 Nevada Newsletter

Questions, inquiries, or need help?

First 5 Nevada, a program of The Children's Cabinet, is supported by the Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five Initiative (PDG B-5), Grant Number 90TP0099, awarded to the Nevada Department of Education, from the Office of Child Care, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Department of Education, the Office of Child Care, the Administration for Children and Families, or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

© First 5 Nevada | Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Website by Purdue Marion & Associates and 37 Gears