I have worked for Garden of Prayer Youth Center for 6 years. My passion for education began when I would volunteer in my children’s classroom. This is when I gained a love for educating children. I enjoy working in my position because I get to interact with all the children, from the infants to the preschoolers. I also enjoy helping families with any needs or concerns they may have for their children. I earned an Associate's in Arts Degree from Kankakee Community College. Then I attended Grand Canyon University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education. Lastly, I obtained a Masters of Education in Early Childhood Education.

Hello my name is Linda Bender and I have an Associates/Bachelor degree in Early Childhood Education and a Masters in Business Administration.I have been working in the childcare field for almost 25 years. I have the level 5 ECE credential. I love working with children because we help shape who they are growing up and guide them on a path to having a successful future. My current position is Site Director/Asst. Director of Education,and I assist with running day to day operations and filling in for the Division Director when necessary. I love interacting with the children and the parents on a day to day basis and subbing in the classroom when needed. I love lending a helping hand to whomever is in need, caring and giving guidance to the children and just putting a smile on their faces.

Hola! My name is Ms. Alejandra Avalos! I am 35 years old, and mother of two. I was born in Mexico and have lived in Kankakee IL for about 21 years now. I enjoy spending time with my family, watching my kids play soccer, and love to dance and listen to music. In July of 2022 I graduated with a Masters degree in Early Childhood Education Leadership from the Arizona University Global Campus. I have been working in the education field for about 14 years. I started working at Garden of Prayer in June of 2015 as the lead teacher for the toddler's room, and recently accepted the position as Parent Support Services Administrator.. I enjoy working in this role because I am able to support parents in their goals and needs to build a better life for themselves and their entire family. My hope is to be the inspiration for many students and leave a positive impact for them and their families.

Hi, my name is Georgina Mendez. I was born and raised in Chicago Illinois; I am the oldest of five children. I am blessed to parent two children of my own, my son David Jr and my daughter Saray. I cherish my kids with all my heart and my wonderful husband David. I love teaching children to be the best version of themselves. I have over fifteen years of teaching experience. I am currently attending school and will soon graduate with a Bachelor Degree in Early Childhood Education in the fall. My favorite part of teaching is being able to see my students happy! I love to see children learning and enjoying the learning process. Outside of teaching, I really enjoy spending time with my family and friends and reading a good book.

My name is Yetha D. Maloney and I am elated to be the Division Director of Education for Garden of Prayer Early Education Center! I have over 30 years of experience in the field of Early Childhood Education. I obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Occupational Therapy and a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education. I also currently hold a Gateways Illinois Director Credential Level II, and ECE Credential Level 5. I have training and experience as a Developmental Therapist in each of the following Early Intervention core knowledge content areas: the Development of Young Children; Typical and Atypical; Working with Families of Young Children with Disabilities; Intervention Strategies for Young Children with Special Needs; and Assessment of Young Children with Special Needs. I have an insurmountable commitment and passion for serving our children, families, and the team members of Garden of Prayer Early Education Center. I am fully invested in propelling our educators to promote, teach, and guide our children to be lifelong learners. I am an effective educator, director, entrepreneur, and an instrumental advocate for helping children and families who are in need. I love making a daily positive impact in the lives of our children and families by providing and sharing my knowledge/educational expertise, support, resources, love , and compassion to the families I encounter. I am fully driven by Nelson Mandela's quote: "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."

This quote has become the guiding principle for Mr. Graves who has worked with Garden of Prayer Youth Center for over 20 years. His passion for working with youth is exemplified by the time and dedication he shares with them regularly. He graduated from Northern Illinois University with a B.S. in Social Work. Later, he attended Governors State University where he received his master's in Education. Mr. Graves is an ISBE-certified teacher and is currently pursuing further educational goals in administration. Since officially working at Garden of Prayer in 1998, Mr. Graves has served in several capacities. Today he currently provides leadership and guidance facilitating both local and national training where he focuses on social-emotional learning among African American Youth. He remains steadfast in ensuring the legacy of its visionaries comes to fruition.