This week, YNN's Mary McCombs shares the story of a woman who turned her life around, thanks to the VOA.

"I never have to worry what's going on here, you know, I know that he's safe and cared for," says Shelby DiRoma of Rochester.

23-year-old Shelby DiRoma is a single mom and a full time student. Her one year old son, David, is enrolled in the Early Head Start program. In fact, he has been in the program since he was seven weeks old.

"He had a little bit of a speech delay and they worked with me and sent me a referral. I had him evaluated and I got services and he's doing fine now," says DiRoma.

As a former graduate of the Early Head Start program, and a current employee, Shelby knew she wanted to provide the same environment for her son.

"I love the kids, I love the atmosphere, it's a huge building, lots of area for them to play, the teachers are great," DiRoma says.

Some 300 children attend the center that typically services city school children. The goal of the program is to both prepare children, and reinforce what kids have already learned at school.

"We're getting them ready for school, teaching them social skills, their self help skills, making sure they're ready for the next step," says Stacy Jo Healy, Children's Center Director.

Shelby is not only a single mother and full-time student, she is also takes care of her disabled father. Shelby is grateful that she can rely on a supportive and caring staff at the VOA and she has peace of mind knowing that her son is in good hands.

"He loves it here, this is like his second home. Everybody knows him and everyone is always saying hi, and he's very comfortable here," said DiRoma.

"It's great to be able to see that the children that we have had in the past, have really been successful and to know that we're a part of that, i s really amazing. And then to see them successful and come back and visit us and have their own children here, it feels really good," says Healy.