Dare to Inspire: Dora's Story

DARE TO INPSIRE

Dora Rodriguez was born in a small town in the northern part of Mexico in the state of Chihuahua. When Dora was 17 years old, she moved to Los Angeles, California. Dora met her husband while attending college to become a social worker. They have been married for 44 years and have four children together. Dora is the proud “Nana” of seven grandchildren.

Dora thinks of Giraffe Laugh as her second family. She has been working at Giraffe Laugh 2 on Grand Avenue since the day it opened 18 years ago. While reminiscing on her time at the center, Dora remembers Lori joking that she “came with the building.” Dora has a total of 30 years of experience in child care, serving homeless children and families, children in her church, in addition to countless Giraffe Laugh families.

Dora is passionate about working with children. “Bright, grinning faces and the sparkle in small, innocent eyes always brings a smile to my face,” she says, “I enjoy teaching children and I like to have fun at the same time.” What inspired Dora’s career in child care was watching her mother teach young children with love and dedication. Dora continues to be inspired by the progress she sees in each child taught in her classroom and at the center. “If they start with a good beginning, they will have a good future,” Dora confidently states. When asked about her favorite part of working for Giraffe Laugh, Dora talked about the lessons that she has found most impactful as children meet their milestones and continue to grow. She feels kindness and empathy are among the most important lessons we can teach every day. Lessons such as these give children a foundation that they can build on for the rest of their lives. Another one of Dora’s favorite aspects of working for Giraffe Laugh is getting to see children return as volunteers to the program.

An achievement that Dora is most proud of is going back to school and completing her degree in early childhood education. She did this while working at Giraffe Laugh. She wanted to lead by example and show her children and grandchildren that no matter your age, if you set your mind on doing something, you can accomplish it. Dora’s mother instilled a value of hard work in her, along with responsibility and compassion for others.

Dora likes traveling, reading books, and jogging. She also enjoys watching sunsets and going on walks with her husband. She is a Dodgers fan and loves watching baseball. Dora values spending time and creating memories with her family.

Dora’s favorite quote about teaching is, “Tell me and I’ll forget, teach me and I’ll remember, involve me and I learn.” -Benjamin Franklin