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Andrea Vargas joined EPEL as the Community and Family Engagement Coordinator in February. She previously worked as a Community Outreach Liaison for Greater Family Health and Kenneth Young Center as a Community Navigator. Born and raised in Elgin, Andrea attended U-46 schools before furthering her education at Elgin Community College and the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology with a minor in Urban Studies.
Andrea has experience working within communities and is passionate about connecting individuals and families with community resources, advocating for mental health, and creating inclusive spaces where all individuals feel empowered to be themselves. Since graduating from college, her career has revolved around non-profits because she believes in the critical work that impacts communities.
Andrea has hit the ground running, already connecting with community partners and leading EPEL’s Family Resource Specialists to build community and family awareness about the importance of early learning, access to resources, and early care and education opportunities. Andrea has already proven to be a relationship builder with families and her warm disposition will be sure to strengthen trust in the neighborhoods with individuals who are furthest from opportunities.
EPEL is excited to have Andrea as a part of the team impacting work toward the EPEL vision of All Children Happy, Healthy, and Ready for Kindergarten.
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