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Associates Visit Presentation Learning Center in Watts
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Presentation Learning Center, a resource primarily for immigrant women, was established in 2000 in Watts, California by two Sisters of the Union of Presentation Sisters. Union Presentation Sisters Jane and Catherine were moving to Los Angeles from Arizona. San Francisco Sister Pati Reinhart, who was principal of a school in Los Angeles at the time, assisted them in finding a suitable location.
Several years ago, Yolanda Santillan attended a retreat where she met one of the foundresses of the Center, Sister Jane. The ensuing relationship between the two led to an outing by San Francisco Associates Rosalie Cabrera, Pat Diaz, Gerry Fagoaga, Kathey Valenzuela, and Yolanda to Presentation Learning Center on November 8, 2023.
The Center provides education and support in English, US history, citizenship preparation, computer skills, GED preparation, parenting skills, and nutrition, primarily to immigrant women. Importantly, child care is provided for parents attending classes. There are also opportunities for spiritual growth, physical exercise, and crafts. It continues the work of Presentation foundress Nano Nagle, whose Presentation Sisters went out across the globe to teach those without access to education.
All photos: Associates with students and staff of the Center. By Yolanda Santillan, all rights reserved.
The November visit included a tour of the Center and stops in the English as a Second Language (ESL) and citizenship classes. Associates attended the senior crocheting class and had an opportunity to share about Association life with the seniors, one-on-one. The seniors then shared their own stories of their knowledge of Nano Nagle and her life. True to the Presentation spirit of hospitality, Associates were invited to a delicious lunch and a visit to the Nano Nagle Garden. The grounds include a statue of Nano Nagle in the front of the Learning Center.
The group is thankful to Sister Catherine, Sister Jane, and Sister Debbie for their warm hospitality and kindness during the visit. The spirit of Nano and the vitality of the charism endure in these Sisters and Associates.
Learn more about Presentation Center on their website.
