Spotlight on the Staff: Elisabeth Salazar
LA Best Babies Network’s Staff Spotlight series features staff from the Welcome Baby, Healthy Families America, and Parents as Teachers home visiting programs in Los Angeles County’s Family Strengthening Network.
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month in September, we’re spotlighting Elisabeth Salazar, a Parent Coach with the Welcome Baby program at Antelope Valley Partners for Health (AVPH) in northern Los Angeles County.
This month marks Elisabeth Salazar’s 13th year with AVPH, a milestone that reflects her deep commitment and dedication. Over the years, Elisabeth has had the privilege of connecting with many families, building relationships that continue to inspire her daily.
When asked about the significance of Hispanic Heritage Month, Elisabeth describes it as a time of celebration: “For me it represents traditions, culture, and pride. It’s a reminder of the richness of our heritage.”
Elisabeth began her journey in this work seeking an opportunity to serve the community where she lives and grew up. “It was important to me to give back in a meaningful way, and this role has allowed me to do just that,” she shares.
What Elisabeth loves most about her work is meeting new people, especially new mothers interested in breastfeeding. She finds joy in supporting them through challenges, normalizing their experiences, and offering assistance that goes beyond feeding — whether emotional, informational, or practical. She is dedicated to walking alongside these families every step of the way.
Working with immigrant families holds special meaning for Elisabeth. She witnesses firsthand their strength and resilience, and feels honored to help them navigate a new system to achieve their goals. Many of these families face language barriers, financial hardships, limited access to medical care, and fear of separation. “In my role, I help connect them to resources, build their confidence, and support them in advocating for themselves and their families,” she explains.
Elisabeth recently worked with a couple of new parents who are undocumented. Their baby required supplemental oxygen, and they were uncertain how long she would need it. With a follow-up appointment not scheduled until the following year, the family lived in fear of separation. They were preparing documents for themselves and their children in case they were detained, hoping to ensure they could be reunited. “Supporting them through that uncertainty helping them find resources, offering emotional support, and empowering them to advocate for their child was deeply impactful and reminded me why this work matters so much,” she shares.
Thank you, Elisabeth, for your incredible dedication and all the wonderful work you’ve done with families in L.A. County over the years!
Find a Home Visiting Program in L.A. County
- Do you know someone in L.A. County who is pregnant or who recently had a baby? They can find a free in-home support program at eDirectory.HomeVisitingLA.org.
See other Spotlight on the Staff posts »