Paris Hill, a parent and employee of Sunbelt Human Advancement Resources in Greenville, South Carolina, was honored with the Ron Herndon Head Start Parent Scholarship. The award recognizes a Head Start parent who goes above and beyond in their community.

Scholarship Impact

Hill said Head Start helped her clarify her goals and take concrete steps toward them. “They show compassion, love, and dedication to helping parents. They push you to do, to be, and to do better — not only as parents but for yourself,” she told the National Head Start Conference in Baltimore.

During the pandemic, Hill participated in virtual classroom instruction with her children and attended parent‑committee meetings and financial‑literacy classes, contributing more than 96 hours to her program.

Education and Career Progress

With the scholarship’s $2,500 support, Hill enrolled in college, earning a bachelor’s degree in applied sciences with a concentration in business management. She has already become a certified nail technician and launched her own business, while also working part‑time toward an uncommon goal of becoming a mortician.

Her work as a mortician‑assistant has allowed her to help families navigate the difficult moments following a loved one’s death, a role she finds deeply rewarding.

Looking Forward

Hill expressed gratitude for the mentorship she received from Head Start teachers and directors. “It fills my heart with joy knowing I had a team pushing me to do better and acknowledging me as a parent, not just a mom,” she said.

The Head Start program continues to provide resources such as childcare, educational support, and parent‑focused training, empowering families across Greenville and beyond to achieve their aspirations.

Original reporting: The Washington Informer — read the source article.