Community Action is happy to announce the recipient of our 2025 February Staff Spotlight, Governance and Support Coordinator, Lara Richardson!
Her nominator said, "I don't think I have met someone that is so on top of what an entire Department is doing than Lara. She is the go-to person for every question you may have about Head Start. She truly cares about making a difference in the lives of people in this community. Lara is always ready to help in any way that she can, is open to all opinions, and incredibly communicative! “
We are so grateful to have staff members such as Lara that exemplify our mission, vision, and values! Recently we caught up with Lara to learn more about her and how she views her role at Community Action.
What is your favorite part about working at CAPRW?
I get a lot of fulfillment working with families through our Head Start Policy Council. There's something very special about helping parents find their voice, watching them build connections with each other, and showing them the ways they can have an impact on our program. I also feel lucky to be surrounded by such an amazing team. I am glad to come to work every day because of the great people, and it's so fun to laugh and be creative together.
Do you have a favorite memory about working with families?
I think my favorite memories are around the advocacy work I've done, and showing families the ways in which local government is accessible and relevant to them. A few families attended Advocacy for Children Day at the Capitol with us in 2024, and one of our children's older siblings came along - she was probably 10 or so. She was completely fascinated by the event, the building, and looking at the seating charts of the House and Senate. She asked her mom if they could come back again with the whole family. That was very cool.
How did you discover your passion for working with children?
It's funny, I honestly don't remember how it started because it's all I can ever remember wanting to do from a very young age! Children are so clever and endlessly curious. It's fun to watch them learn and experience new things - especially in the 0-5 age group like we serve here, you notice their growth on an almost daily basis. How rewarding to know the impact we have as educators!
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time outside of work?
I am a proud dog mom and spend lots of time with my pup, Bo. He is just as intrigued by exploring new paths as I am, so we go on lots of adventures together! Spending time with my sister and friends, and road tripping to visit my parents in southern Utah. I love singing and am a huge fan of musical theater, and I go to shows whenever I can. I also enjoy creative/artistic endeavors - writing, piano, crafts, video editing...I'd like to make more time for those things.
