Early Start Family Resource Center

Raise & Shine is an Early Start Family Resource Center in Mendocino County that provides resources, support, training, and classes to families of children with and without disabilities. All staff members are bilingual.

Mission

The Raise & Shine FRC fosters community resiliency through quality family engagement.

Vision

The Raise & Shine FRC mentors families on how to build their protective layers.

Working Hours

  • Monday - Friday 9:00 - 3:00
Raise & Shine is currently located at our Talmage office in Ukiah.
It is always best to call ahead for an appointment to make sure staff is available.

Contact Information

419 Talmage Rd. Suite K, Ukiah, CA 95482
Little boy playing with colorful toys (800 × 1250 px)

What is a Family Resource Center?

Family Resource Centers (FRCs) are local community centers that support families. Support can include parenting classes and groups, resource libraries, and playgroups. FRCs also offer support by helping families and children locate and use services within their communities.

What is an Early Start Family Resource Center?

Early Start Family Resource Centers (EFRCs) are part of the California Department of Developmental Services’ Early Start Program. EFRCs provide supportive services which can include education, resources, and training to families with children who are at risk for or are experiencing delays or disabilities. EFRCs assist families with system navigation and linking families with appropriate services in their communities.

What can I expect from Raise & Shine?

You can expect family-driven support from staff who understand what you are going through, practical and emotional peer support, referrals to services for you or your child, and helpful trainings, workshops, and conferences.

Raise & Shine is here to support parents.

Services Include:

What information and support can I get at Raise & Shine?

A PARTNER ON YOUR JOURNEY
We are here to help and support you and your child.
RESOURCES TO MEET YOUR NEEDS
Staff work with parents, caregivers, families, and children to locate and utilize needed services.
PEER-TO-PEER SUPPORT
Tailored support to meet your specific needs, staff provide support services and resources.
Learn more about FRCs in
Mendocino County.

Raise & Shine Team

Bonnie Boek
Raise & Shine Program Director

Bonnie Boek

Andres Alvarado
Bilingual Family Consultant

Andres Alvarado

Jade Aldrich
Triple P Coordinator & Community Navigator

Jade Aldrich

Bilingual Family Consultant

Maria Fuentes

Raise & Shine Program Director

Bonnie Boek

I have a Bachelor of Arts degree from UC Davis in American Studies-Gender and Ethnicity and a Minor in Native American Studies. Working at First 5 Mendocino where I get to support children and their families brings me joy, satisfaction, and hope. Children are our future. Outside of work I spend my time with my children, creating art, and gardening.

Favorite childhood book: The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf

Bilingual Family Consultant

Andres Alvarado

I’ve been with First 5 Mendocino since February 2017. I started by being an Americorp for 1 and a half years and became a full-time staff in August of 2018. I’m trained in Triple P, CRM, PIP, and Signs of Safety among other things. Being a resource for families and being able to help them achieve their goals is what I’m passionate about and it’s why I love to show up at work every day! In my free time, I like to play soccer and disc golf. I’m also a coach for Mendocino County Soccer Academy (MCSA). GO EAGLES!

Favorite childhood book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

Triple P Coordinator & Community Navigator

Jade Aldrich

I am a mother of four and raised my beautiful children on the coast of Mendocino without any immediate family. As a young mom feelings of isolation and overwhelm were constant, and I yearned for connection and guidance. I found a Triple P Positive Parenting Group and it changed my life by connecting me with others and teaching me skills to feel calm and confident in managing challenging behaviors. It has now been over a decade since I’ve been supporting other families as a Certified Doula, Childbirth Educator, Breastfeeding Peer Counselor & Triple P Facilitator who knows personally the importance of connection and support. Everyone needs it and I am passionate about making it available as part of a normal option for all parents and caregivers of children. Outside of work I love to play on our beaches and swim in our rivers.

Favorite childhood book: Black Beauty by Ana Sewell

Favorite childhood song: It’s a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong

Bilingual Family Consultant

Maria Fuentes

I am a mother of two who was introduced to FIRST 5 Mendocino when I was a first-time mom 8 years ago. I joined the team as an Americorps member where it ignited my passion to support children, parents, and caregivers. I am an accredited Triple P facilitator helping parents and caregivers navigate their journey in raising children with support, empathy, and a smile. One key moment that helped me as a first-time parent was knowing that I could ask for help to gain knowledge and information through FIRST 5. I am happy to now offer that same warm and inclusive service to families in Mendocino County. On my free time I like to care for my houseplants, go for walks, and spend time with my children.

Favorite childhood book: The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister

Favorite childhood song: Los Pollitos Dicen

Local Resources
  • Doctor’s Visits
    Well-child visits are important from the start. Doctors check baby’s growth and ask about your child’s new skills- like walking or talking. You can ask questions, talk about any concerns, and get help with challenges.
    Website
  • Early Start
    The Early Start Program is California’s early intervention system that offers services to eligible infants and toddlers who have or are at-risk for developmental disabilities or delays.
    Website
  • Family Resource Center Network
    The Family Resource Center Network of Mendocino County is a group of 10 community-based family resource centers working together to help individuals and families access services.
    Website
  • Home Visiting
    Free home visiting services to help you navigate the challenges of being a parent.
    Website
General Resources
  • Family Resource Centers Network of California
    Learn about the Family Resource Centers Network of California, a coalition of Early Start Family Resource Centers in California.
    Website
  • Zero to Three
    Information on early childhood.
    Website

Contact Us

Find out more about First 5 Mendocino and how we can help you.