" A thousand times," Hosseini said when asked whether she has watched children ' s confidence change after being exposed to new experiences.
Those experiences may include meeting governors, college coaches or business leaders who once stood where they stand today. They might involve visiting a college campus, attending a professional sporting event, or simply spending a day at the beach— experiences many children take for granted, but that can profoundly shape a young person ' s understanding of what is possible.
For many students, these aren ' t extraordinary experiences. They ' re first experiences.
Hosseini believes children experiencing poverty often feel separated from their peers long before they recognize the economic realities behind that feeling. " Poor kids are automatically detached from the population," she said. " We have to make sure they feel they are part of the group."
Creating that sense of belonging is just as important as providing academic support. When children feel
included, supported and valued, they begin to imagine futures that once felt out of reach.
Take Daniel, for example. His parents’ words tell the story better than any statistic could.
" I am writing to thank you for the incredible impact your program has had on my son, Daniel," a parent wrote in a letter to Food Brings Hope. " Since joining Food Brings Hope, we have seen an amazing transformation in him. The program has provided a safe, supportive and encouraging environment that has helped Daniel truly open up. Thanks to your wonderful staff and activities, he has grown tremendously in his social skills and has found a new group of friends."
The letter continues, " Beyond the social connections, the program has given him a genuine sense of inspiration and confidence that carries over into his everyday life. Seeing him excited to participate and grow has been a true blessing for our family. Thank you for your dedication, kindness and investing so much heart into the children in our community."
For Hosseini, stories like Daniel ' s are the true
Launching Aerospace Education at Daytona State College
Daytona State is expanding with two new Associate of Science degrees in Aviation Maintenance Management( pending FAA approval) and Aerospace Technology, and an Avionics Systems Technician Career Certificate. These high-demand, careeroriented programs were developed with guidance from NASA, Blue Origin, Northrop Grumman and other industry leaders to provide students the hands-on skills today’ s aerospace companies need.
If you’ re ready to launch your future, visit DaytonaState. edu / Aerospace.
DaytonaState. edu
Q3 2026 | 15 |