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Coalition of health services
HIPPY Program
OUR MISSION
HIPPY’s mission is to help parents prepare their children for success in school and beyond. The model supports parents as their children’s first teacher by providing them the tools, skills, and confidence to teach their young children in the home.
Our Vision
We support our families in a compassionate, respectful, non-judgmental environment through praise, guidance and educate our future leaders.
Why HIPPY?
HIPPY offers parents support, training and materials so they can engage in effective, developmental and fun activities with their children in the comfort of their own homes. The HIPPY program works because it is based on a well-designed curriculum, parents learn by doing and children love the special time with their parents.
HIPPY Coordinator
Veronica Elizalde
I have been dedicated to supporting families and strengthening early childhood education through the HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters) program in Amarillo since its launch in 2012. My journey began as a HIPPY parent from 2012 to 2014, where I experienced firsthand the impact of early learning in the home. Inspired by my own experience, I transitioned into a HIPPY Home Visitor, working directly with families to guide them in preparing their children for school success.
With a deep commitment to early childhood education, I advanced to Assistant Coordinator/Acting Coordinator in 2018 and officially became the HIPPY Coordinator in 2023. In this leadership role, I ensure that home visitors receive the training, resources, and support needed to engage and support parents—helping them become their child’s first and most important teacher.
Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Development, I am passionate about advocating for school readiness, fostering parent leadership, and building community partnerships that strengthen family support systems. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work is seeing the growth of both children and parents—not only as they prepare for school but also as they achieve the personal and family goals they set for themselves.
I am always looking for new ways to connect with families, organizations, and community leaders who share the vision of equipping children with the skills they need to thrive. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for our youngest learners!
HIPPY Assistant Coordinator
Leona Garcia,
Proud mother of 4 children Married 20+years to my husband. I have been with the COHS-HIPPY for 6 wonderful years. They have all been by far my most important support to be where I am now.
As the Assistant Coordinator, I am dedicated to empowering parents to embrace their pivotal role as their child’s first and most influential teachers. My journey from a home visitor to this leadership position has been fueled by a passion for fostering family growth and development. Witnessing the transformative progress within families as they engage more deeply in their children’s education is profoundly rewarding.
I am committed to nurturing strong partnerships between families and educational institutions, recognizing that such collaborations are essential for student success. By facilitating open communication and providing resources, I strive to create an environment where parents feel confident and equipped to support their children’s learning journey.
Beyond my professional responsibilities, I am actively involved in leadership for our Home Visitors and our community initiatives, understanding that a supportive community is the cornerstone of thriving families. Volunteering and giving back are integral to my mission, as they reinforce the bonds that hold our community together and contribute to a culture of mutual support and growth.
In essence, my role is not just a profession but a calling to inspire and uplift families, ensuring that every child has the foundation they need to succeed, both in school and in life.
Thank you,
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