Congratulations to the Graduates of the Fall 2024 HACP Virtual Parenting Class!

November 20, 2024

Congratulations to the Fall 2024 graduates of the HACP's Virtual Parenting Program!

Ten amazing women - Allani, Fayette, Jessica, Jillian, Loray, Lori, Omeshia, Shawntinia, SiRoya, and Tyshona - completed the 6-week course that teaches participants everything from positive parenting, trauma and healing, financial literacy, and eating healthy on a budget.

The program is made possible through generous support of community partners such as the Highmark Wholecare Foundation.

Each graduate was recognized during a graduation ceremony in the Bedford EnVision Center this morning.

HACP Executive Director Caster D. Binion said, "This is a big deal because you stepped forward and said, 'I want to know everything I need to know about raising my child.'"

He added his hope for each participant to see their own children in their caps and gowns in 18 years, whether graduating from college, a trade, or another milestone.

"There are so many things that can happen in this world, and you want to make sure you put all that you can into it with no regrets."

Michelle Sandidge, HACP's Chief Community Affairs Officer, recalled growing up in Pittsburgh public housing communities and learning French in elementary school. She asked her teacher why they needed to learn the language in America.

Her teacher told her she may never use it or even leave the U.S., but she just needed to do it.

Years later on vacation with her husband, Michelle stood atop the Eiffel Tower in Paris and recited French to show that anyone can do anything they want to in life.

"And don't let anyone ever tell you differently," she added.

Graduate Allani Moseley said she was thankful that the program gave each participant the opportunity to be individuals and not defined by the unit they live in or their title as mother, grandmother, etc.

"This reminds me of the Maya Angelou quote, 'Still I Rise,' and we will rise," she said.

Mr. Binion and Karen Garrett, HACP's Director of Resident Initiatives, reminded participants of the many programs available to them through the HACP to further help them and their families, including workforce development and resident employment, education, scholarships, and home ownership.

"The HACP is here to help your family move on. There's great opportunities for you. Don't let them get by you," he advised.

Congratulations again to our graduates!