Today we’d like to introduce you to Rocio Leiva.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have always had a special connection with children. I started working in childcare right out of high school, and I haven’t stopped since. This year ABF had it’s ten year anniversary. We won the Children’s Trust, “Program of the Year” 2017 Champions for Children award! We are honored and proud of the recognition. We’re NAEYC accredited, Quality Counts Participants, and committed to improving our community, through educating and empowering our children.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When I started, we had just under twenty children, and two teachers. The first year was amazing, we grew so fast. We would open classrooms depending on the need of the community. We were originally located on 288th street about two minutes from where we are now. Business was going great and then the economy hit!!!! Families were losing their jobs, and their homes. We just sadly, kept losing children. The landlord was not sympathetic, and I thought I was going to lose it all. Luckily many of the teachers held on through tough times. 80% of my teachers have been with me for over eight years!
We are family….
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about ABF Learning Center – what should we know?
ABF Learning Center stands for: A Better Foundation. We are now located across the street from Chapman Homeless Center, and near the Homestead Air Force Base. We service the whole community. Private, military, government. We take in children infant to school age. We offer Child Care, VPK, Kindergarten, After-school and Summer Programs. What I’m most proud of is how committed and resourceful we’ve become to the community. We provide a wide variety of services to a very diverse and growing community. We’ve been recognized for our professionalism and quality care.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
We are proud of what we do, and we serve our community with pride and respect!
Contact Info:
- Address: 12767 SW 280 Street
Miami, Florida 33032 - Website: www.abflearningcenter.com
- Phone: 305-257-5565
- Email: abflearningcenter@yahoo.com
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
