Congratulations Freddie Stewart!

On receiving the GLOW Women Rise 2021 GRIT Award!

THE GRIT AWARD acknowledges individuals in the community who exhibit tenacity, fearlessness, and spirit in their work advacating for an underrepresented group.

Freddie Stewart has worked for Head Start of Genesee-Orleans for 44 years, tirelessly providing comprehensive services to thousands of children and families in the region. She began this career as a parent, herself, being drawn to the Head Start philosophy of advancing racial and ethnic equity while developing a student’s literacy, social, mental, emotional, and physical skills. During her lifetime of service, Freddie has continually exemplified the Community Action mission of treating others with dignity and respect, stating, “I continue to serve Community Action’s Head Start program because it still holds onto the foundation of acceptance, of being more than just a philosophy of tolerance, but one of inclusion. Head Start continues to strive to provide comprehensive programing for low-income children and this charge is to be carried out always mindful that a person’s dignity remains intact whether you are guiding a child, or partnering with a parent or member of the community.”

Freddie continues to view her role of service to the children and parents a privilege. Head Start continues to stand, along with a few other “war on poverty” programs that provide needed support within our community. Throughout the years, Freddie has witnessed many changes and evolutions to the program and its goals and just as she did when she first began this journey, she continues to steadfastly exemplify a gentle tenacity and loving spirit as she shows up, cares, and continues to carry the progressive and inclusive message of Head Start forward.