Starting Over for the Last Time

Esther Mendez was working as a teacher in a preschool for 12 years when, due to administrative restructuring, she lost her position. With the extensive experience she had gained working with children and her desire to start a career that would bring her more financial stability, Esther founded Sky Sunshine Daycare in 2009. “At my age, I didn’t want to continue being employed by someone else. I wanted to start my own business so I didn’t have to keep starting over, so I could grow it up.”

Starting a business presented numerous challenges for Esther, however her dedication to her career enabled her to prevail. “I was doing everything by myself. In this field, you’re everything: you’re the mother, you’re the administration, you’re the teacher. But when you love what you do, you can go forever.” For more than a decade, Esther continued to prioritize the needs of the children she cared for and of their families. “I like being able to help my community. I love keeping everybody happy.”

Returning to a Place of Support

In March 2020, Esther saw nearly every one of the 12 children she cared for drop out, as families began to stay at home following the COVID-19 pandemic. “We closed on March 16^th because we had no children. It was terrible.” However, Esther received her second loan from Ascendus in late 2019, whom she had been referred to originally by her banker at Chase bank. Esther had initially intended to use the loan for playground equipment but is instead now using it to implement the proper preparations for the reopening of her daycare this fall. Esther was also able to receive a three-month deferment on her loan to help ease her financial anxiety. “My experience with Ascendus was great – that’s why I returned. They take the time to get to know me. When I’m in a difficult situation and need support, they’ve been there. They take care of me.”

With schools now gradually reopening, Esther is preparing to reopen her daycare in the fall and follow the proper safety precautions. Always thinking of her community, she knows that navigating the months ahead will be a collaborative effort. “This pandemic impacts everyone. We have to work together for a better future. We have a community to clean up and take care of.” Esther looks forward to reopening and returning to the passion that has always kept her going. “This is my job, I have to keep working. This is my life. I need my life.”