Caregiver Support Providers

Sara Falk, MA, ECFS®

I have been working with families and young children for 10 years, starting as an early childhood educator. I have a passion for supporting the adults who do the important and challenging work of caring for the next generation of our community. 

I work with parents and caregivers of young children to empower them with the knowledge and skills to support their children’s developing mental health and help them heal when challenges arise. I work with educators and childcare providers to support them in incorporating mental health and trauma informed practices. My approach is centered around the knowledge that families and caregivers are the experts on their children, and my role is to support them in ways that align with their familial and cultural values. 

I received an AAS in Early Childhood Education from Kirkwood Community College, and BS in Early Childhood Education and BA in Spanish from St. Cloud State University, and an MA in Child Development with a specialization in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health from the University of Minnesota. I am a Circle of Security Parenting facilitator and an endorsed Early Childhood Family Specialist.

Leyda Antúnez, MS, IMH-E®

I have been supporting Latino families with young children for more than 10 years. My interest in children’s behaviors started since college, while I was studying and learning more my interest for supporting parents grew even more and because of this, while in college, I worked in child care for about a year and a half to have a first-hand experience. I have been leading community parenting education class for about 10 years and home visits with expecting mothers and parents of children with challenging behaviors. Currently, I am leading parenting education classes with Latino families in Cold Spring, MN.

Through my work with Ellison Center, I facilitate Circle of Security Parenting classes oriented to young Latino mothers and provide Caregiver Support Program home visits with families struggling with their children's behaviors and also with pregnant mothers. I am also part of the Multicultural Advisory Committee at the Ellison Center.

I have a Bachelor’s in Psychology, a Master degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and an Associate Degree in Administration and Computer Sciences from UNITEC, Honduras. I am a Licensed Parent Educator, endorsed Infant Mental Health Specialist, and Circle of Security Parenting facilitator. 

Belinda Labor

I work with Ellison Center as a Caregiver Support Specialist and also Facilitate Circle of Security with caregivers. Prior to this I was a Home Visiting Teacher, Behavior Support Specialist, and Teaching Assistant. I enjoy working with children and caregivers and making a difference in other people’s lives is something I am passionate about.

I received my AAS degree in Arts and Sciences from the St Cloud Technical and Community College and my Bachelor of Science degree from University of Minnesota.

Yoalys Ramos, OB/GYN (Venezuela)

I was born in Naiguata, Vargas state, Venezuela. I graduated as a Surgeon in 2000, and as a Gynecology and Obstetrics Specialist in 2004 at the Central University of Venezuela. I lovingly practiced my profession in my country for 22 continuous years. I am happily married and the mother of 2 wonderful children. I arrived in the United States in 2022. I became certified as a Doula with Everyday Miracles in 2023, and I am working with pregnant women. I love that.

I study English at the Quarry View Education Center. I am one of the coordinators of Camino Contigo, a mental health support group. I volunteer at Fe y Justicia and at the Hispanic Donation Center.

Hodan Omar, MS, LSW

I have over 10 years of experience working with children and families, beginning with community outreach and education initiatives. My work has primarily focused on supporting immigrant families, helping them navigate educational systems, healthcare, and social services.

Currently, I serve as the Executive Director of Hooyo Hour, where I lead programs that promote family engagement, mental health awareness, and community development. A key part of my work focuses on inclusive education, ensuring that families with children who have diverse learning needs receive the support and resources they require.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Community Psychology, a Master’s of Science in Educational Administration and Leadership from Saint Cloud State University, and I am a licensed social worker. My areas of expertise include educational equity, mental health advocacy, and providing culturally responsive care to immigrant communities, particularly within the Somali community.