Having an education is a cornerstone of a better life. However, we know that not everyone has the same opportunities, and accessing the education they want or need can be difficult, especially when you add language, education, socio-economic, and other barriers. Recognizing this, Madres de Casino Road was created in 2017. This small non-profit was developed to empower women (and families) by connecting them to educational opportunities and providing a safe environment for community members to connect with one another. 

I was able to speak with Paula, the Director of Operations, who let me know a bit more about the amazing opportunities Madres de Casino Road offers. Paula shared that there are three educational categories: 

First, the basic education category. This program intends to help Spanish-speaking people move from illiteracy to a high-school level education so they can attend community colleges and acquire their GED. This program originated in Mexico, and Madres de Casino Road is an agent organization that facilitates it in our local area! After completing their program, participants receive certificates verifying they have completed the necessary levels required to advance their education. 

Additionally, because Madres recognizes that we live in a digital age, they also provide computer classes. The final program included in the basic education grouping is a Level 1 ESL program which is hosted in the evening and sponsored by Everett Community College. 

Second, vocational education. This includes sewing, baking, makeup classes, fruit bouquet arranging classes and so much more. The intention of these classes is to help women achieve financial independence and to help women support their communities and families with their own businesses. When participants complete some programs, like the make-up classes, they are provided certificates so they can officially practice their skill in that profesional capacity. 

The mission of these vocational education classes is also to break stereotypes and empower women to imagine more for themselves. Paula noted that many people may not recognize what potential opportunities are available to them until someone comes in and shows them the options. These programs not only give people hope to imagine themselves in a better future, but also give them the tools to make that future a reality. 

The third educational category is self-development workshops. These include mental health, entrepreneurship, and personal finance classes. These are critical because to help people create a better life for themselves, they need to be able to plan for their best futures. Paula noted that, as many members of Madres are immigrants, their intention is to support people making that progress and accomplish the dreams that led them to move to America in the first place. 

In addition to these educational programs, Madres de Casino Road also sponsors community support programs like a food bank every Thursday starting at 2 PM (Paula let me know that it’s often cleared out within the hour thanks to the fresh produce, milk, eggs, and bread they provide - so get there early!) and a hot meal program. 

According to Paula, “our mission is to educate our community…We are an organization that loves the community and we want our community to open their wings and fly. Take off and make a difference to the community, to the country, to the world” - and that’s what Madres is all about. 

Madres de Casino Road already does so much for our community - and they want to do more - but they need your help to make those hopes a reality. You can donate and even stop by to connect with the excellent team working there! There are some volunteer opportunities, but the most helpful thing you can do is attend the classes, connect with members of our community, and support each other while learning new skills. 

Madres de Casino Rd.
14 E Casino Rd Building D
Everett, WA 98208

Angela Di Filippo currently works in State Social Services and recently earned her Masters in Industrial/Organizational Psychology with extensive training in evidence-based leadership coaching. Angela moved from North Carolina to Washington 6 years ago and has proudly called Everett her home for 5 of those years. When not helping others solve problems in creative and strength-driven ways, Angela enjoys her time painting, hiking with her terrier-mix, Indy, and eating waffles.