Meet the Bold Goal Family Navigator

We are happy to announce Communities in Schools of Chatham County (CIS) has hired the Bold Goal Family Navigator, Maria Soto.

The Bold Goal Pilot Program focuses on families in Siler City, using Siler City Elementary School as a gateway to provide comprehensive support. With 86% of students eligible for free or reduced lunch and 85% from racial/ethnic minorities, the program targets households seeking to improve income and social determinants of health. 

Maria will collaborate with case managers to create and implement family support plans, with services wrapping around entire households.

Maria has served the Chatham community in various ways since 1988, and we asked her a few questions to learn more about her role and how she believes the new program will be received in the community.

Question: What do you most look forward to as the new Family Navigator?
Answer: To help individuals and families navigate systems of care and improve their quality of life. 

Question: With your experience in Chatham, how do you think families will react to this new coordination of services you will be providing? 
Answer: Families are likely to react positively to the new coordination of services provided by the Family Support Navigator through Communities in Schools of Chatham County. 

• Increased Hope and Empowerment: Families may feel more hopeful and empowered as they gain access to resources, support systems, and guidance tailored to their specific needs.
• Trust and Collaboration: Relief from Navigational Challenges: Many families struggle to access and navigate complex systems of care. The Navigator’s guidance can alleviate stress, particularly for those facing systemic barriers like language, transportation, or lack of awareness.
• Building Social Connections: Community gatherings and other opportunities to expand social networks can help families feel more connected, supported, and less isolated.

However, some families may initially express hesitation or skepticism, particularly if they have had negative past experiences with similar programs or systemic institutions. Building trust through consistent communication, cultural sensitivity, and transparency will be key in addressing these concerns.

Question: What do you think of the United Way’s Bold Goal and this new, collaborative service delivery United Way is leading between agencies?
Answer: United Way’s Bold Goal—to end and prevent poverty for 2,000 people in 2,000 days—is ambitious, but it reflects a proactive and focused approach to addressing systemic poverty. This initiative reflects United Way’s and Chatham County’s commitment to tackling poverty at its roots while empowering families through coordinated, sustainable support. The Family Support Navigator role aligns perfectly with this vision by bridging gaps in services and helping families achieve self-sufficiency. 

For more information on the Bold Goal Program, visit our website.