ECE Outreach: A Q&A with Arati Hernandez

Arati Hernandez (left) during Chill on the Hill in Bay View.

As part of our ongoing work to support early childhood education (ECE), our ECE Ambassadors are connecting directly with child care providers in Milwaukee’s ThriveOn King neighborhood, building trust and strengthening the local child care network. We spoke with our ECE Ambassadors to hear about their experiences on the ground - and their answers show the dedication, perspective and insight they bring to this important work. First up is Arati Hernandez.

What’s one thing you’ve learned so far from connecting with these providers?

One thing I’ve learned is how deeply committed they are to the children and families they serve - even while facing tough challenges like staffing shortages, limited resources, and burnout. Many were eager to share their stories and appreciated having someone who truly understands their world take the time to listen.

I also learned that not every center is ready to open up right away - and that’s okay. Some providers were unsure of our role or simply stretched too thin to engage. This reminded me that real relationship-building takes time and consistency. As Ambassadors, our job isn’t just to offer help — it’s to show up with empathy, respect each center’s pace, and build trust through presence. Sometimes, just being there and listening with care means more than words can.

We’re here, we’re ready to listen, and we’re committed to walking alongside our providers - however and whenever they’re ready.

Why is it so important to build a stronger network of local ECE providers?

Building a stronger, more connected network of early childhood providers really matters because when we feel supported, heard, and connected to each other, everybody wins - especially the children and families we care for every day.

Having that network gives us a space to share ideas, swap resources and just remind each other we’re not alone. So many providers we’ve met have said they feel isolated or burned out. When we start connecting, it’s like a weight lifts - we can learn from each other, celebrate each other and grow stronger together.

When centers, organizations and advocates build those relationships, our voice gets louder. Together, we can push for better pay, more support and the respect this work deserves.

At the end of the day, that connection helps make sure every child - no matter which center they’re in - gets the same love, care, and quality we all strive for.