In 2019, Rosa Paredes walked into an upWORDS class as a mother eager to learn how to support her child’s early development. She had no idea that this program would not only shape her parenting journey but also transform her career. Today, Rosa is a Patient Access Specialist with upWORDS, providing vital support to families, just as she once received. Her story is a testament to the power of upSTART Community Programs and the impact of Texas Children’s and Baylor College of Medicine’s commitment to community health.
A Life-Changing Experience
Like many parents, Rosa initially believed that upWORDS was a class for her child. What she discovered was something even more valuable—a program designed to empower parents with tools and strategies to strengthen interactions with their child and build early language skills.
“I fell in love with upWORDS as a participant. I just kept thinking; everyone needs to know about this program. I couldn’t stop talking about it.” Rosa said.
Her enthusiasm soon turned to action. Eager to give back to the community that had supported her, Rosa joined the upWORDS program team and was then promoted to senior program assistant. Later, with the encouragement of her supervisor, she pursued certification as a Community Health Worker (CHW) through the University of Houston. This training deepened her knowledge and allowed her to provide even greater support to families in need. Now, as a Patient Access Specialist, Rosa is helping to educate the community at events about upWORDS and support vulnerable families navigate challenges and access needed resources.
Meeting Families Where They Are
Rosa’s work centers on educating vulnerable families in the community, building trust with community partners, and addressing the basic needs—housing and utilities, food, clothing or diapers, transportation, childcare, and safe sleeping arrangements—that can be obstacles to a parent’s participation in upWORDS. She consistently goes above and beyond to help bridge that gap and meet families where they are, connecting them to the services and resources they need to fully engage in the program with their children.
Because many families are hesitant to seek help, building trust is at the core of what Rosa and fellow community health workers on our upSTART team do. They work to establish relationships, offering support in a way that is respectful and empowering. One of the most powerful examples of Rosa’s impact came through her collaboration with BCM CHW Santy Guel. Together, they worked to assist a mother facing domestic violence while also struggling with childcare and school enrollment for her children.
Rosa focused on the children’s education —finding Head Start programs for the little ones and Boys & Girls Club programs for the older kids. Santy handled housing and domestic violence support. With collaborative problem-solving and dedication, they ensured this family was able to move to a safer living environment and helped the mother create a plan to move forward.
The Broader Impact of upSTART
Rosa is one of many individuals making a difference through upSTART Community Programs, which have served over 3,300 families since 2016, and trained over 6,500 providers on early brain development and parenting strategies. Families benefit not only from direct services but also from a vast network of community connections, with more than 3,750 referrals made to essential resources.
She continues to help the most vulnerable through upWORDS and has recently returned to school to pursue a degree in early childhood education. “I want to keep growing and continue empowering families to help them thrive.”
Her story is a powerful reminder of why upSTART exists—to create lasting change for children and parents. Thanks to the dedication of Rosa and her colleagues, Texas Children’s and Baylor College of Medicine are building stronger families and healthier futures, one connection at a time.
Get Involved
upWORDS is accepting enrollment for new classes throughout Houston and the surrounding counties. To refer families with children 0-36 months to the program, please visit texaschildrens.org/upwords-program and complete the interest form. Referrals may also be emailed to upWORDS@texaschildrens.org. Please complete the upLIFT referral form or visit the upLIFT Group Referral Portal to refer yourself, a patient or friend to these programs. For questions, contact upWORDS at 832-227-1828.