March 18, 2024
Two alumni of AHC’s education programs have returned as Program Assistants. In their roles, they offer academic and personal support to students. Read below to see what inspired them to return and help AHC create pathways for economic mobility and build a legacy that empowers entire communities.
Kassandra Ventura
Program Assistant, Education
Kassandra Ventura knows firsthand the impact AHC’s education programs have — which motivated her to give back to the larger community.
“I want to help the kids,” Kassandra said. “I can relate to them because I was in their shoes.”
Before becoming a Program Assistant, Kassandra was deeply involved with AHC’s education programs, allowing her to build strong connections with her peers, teachers, and mentors.
Coach Kate Athing of the Marymount Women’s Lacrosse Team, a longtime volunteer group with AHC, tutored Kassandra during her time in the Afterschool program. Kate enjoyed working with Kassandra as she was growing up and said she’s proud to see the positive influence she has on those around her.
“Seeing her step into a role at AHC, where she can continue to make a lasting impact, fills me with immense pride,” Kate said. “I’m especially grateful that I still have the chance to see her each week, and witnessing her come full circle at AHC has been a great joy.”
Kassandra is in her first year at The George Washington University studying information systems. As a first-generation student, she credits the Teen Program with helping her develop strong study habits and keep up with her grades. She said her family had limited resources and the program was crucial to her academic success.
Kassandra explained that the most rewarding part is watching the kids she supports grow emotionally and academically over the years.
“Getting to know them is really important because you’re not just there to help them grow with their literacy, you’re also there to be a safe space that they can come to after school,” she said.
Jabez Valencia
Program Assistant, Education
Jabez Valencia’s journey with AHC has come full circle. Growing up in AHC education programs, he understands what it meant to have support and guidance at a young age.
“I decided to come back because of the way that AHC helped me throughout my development as a kid. I think it was super beneficial for me,” Jabez said.
As a Program Assistant, Jabez is learning about how to best support the community and juggle different responsibilities. He hopes his work will help students and parents who may need extra support.
“I’m learning how to give each student attention when needed, like when they need help on their homework or when they need help on a certain assignment, or if they just want to have a conversation and talk to you — just being able to be that source they can feel comfortable to talk to,” Jabez said.
His experiences at AHC are also shaping his future career path. He’s currently studying to become a physical education teacher, which was largely influenced by his involvement in AHC’s College Career and Readiness (CCR) program.
“CCR was a big, big help in guiding me to pick my career, and giving me a lot of opportunities, a lot of sources, and a lot of advice throughout high school,” Jabez said.
For Jabez, the role is more than just a job — it’s a chance to create the same sense of comfort and stability that he experienced as a student in AHC’s programs.
“Being able to take care of the students while their parents are working or are busy and being in this position where I can make an impact on their lives is great,” Jabez said.