First 5 San Bernardino and El Sol Neighborhood Education Center partnership reaches milestone with 11 graduating apprentices

Group of people smiling for a photo in an office environment, standing and sitting in three rows, with a sign reading "Grads” in the background. — *El Sol Neighborhood Education Center’s first graduating class of home visitor apprentices.*

Smiles, applause and a sense of accomplishment filled the room as El Sol Neighborhood Education Center’s inaugural class of home visitor apprentices received their certificates. The graduation ceremony honored not only the apprentices’ achievements, but also the growing impact of El Sol’s Home Visitation Institute, made possible through the visionary support of First 5 San Bernardino.

What began in 2007 as a single grant supporting a postpartum education and referral program has evolved into one of First 5 San Bernardino’s most significant partnerships. From the beginning, El Sol and First 5 San Bernardino shared a common vision: to empower families through culturally responsive, community-based support.

Building upon its early success, the vision expanded in 2015 with the launch of a Home Visitation program in the High Desert, designed to meet families where they are. Through one-on-one visits, trusted community health workers provided guidance, resources and compassionate support directly in the comfort of families’ homes.

“We are deeply grateful for the bold leadership of First 5 San Bernardino,” said Tania Martinez, program director for El Sol Neighborhood Education Center. “Their belief in community-based solutions is helping to shape a future where every family has the support they need to thrive.”

In 2023, the partnership reached its first major milestone with the establishment of El Sol’s Home Visitation Institute, funded by First 5 San Bernardino. This innovative program trains local parents, caregivers and community leaders to become skilled home visitors. Apprentices complete 32 units of coursework along with hands-on training that prepares them to deliver essential services and connect parents with critical resources.

With a new class of certified home visitors, the program is deepening its support for families and helping them navigate the early years with care.

Additional County Update News – August 21, 2025