Candace Emerson
ASTra Coordinator, GBYS Parent Guide, & Board Member

I am happily married to my wonderful husband and we are raising our two sons together in Las Vegas, NV. Our oldest, Ethan, is eight years old and was born with a hearing difference. He is in the third grade and loves video games, wrestling and sweet desserts. Jacob, our youngest son is four years old and has typical hearing. He is a big fan of Frozen, exploring the outdoors and swimming. Together, we love to take road trips, go on hikes, watch game shows and see new movies in theaters.
Favorite quote: “Hope is not a strategy”
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?: When I am not working, I enjoy exercising, hiking, watching football and hockey, trying new restaurants, relaxing with my family and reading.
What's the most inspiring part of your job?: The most inspiring part of my job as a Parent Guide, is hands down, the honor and privilege I receive in working with every single family I am assigned. Meeting them where they are in the beginning (or wherever I find myself joining their journey) and then watching them navigate their own path brings me immense joy. Whether receiving birthday photos, a video of their first signs or an update after a CI surgery, I am so humbled to be able to connect so closely with families. Being a Parent Guide is so much more than just sharing resources, information, and support, it is truly all about the connections I make with my families and the bond we share along their journey. I am just as excited to start working within the ASTra program and assist families with their D/HH children’s educational advocacy needs.
Favorite quote: “Hope is not a strategy”
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?: When I am not working, I enjoy exercising, hiking, watching football and hockey, trying new restaurants, relaxing with my family and reading.
What's the most inspiring part of your job?: The most inspiring part of my job as a Parent Guide, is hands down, the honor and privilege I receive in working with every single family I am assigned. Meeting them where they are in the beginning (or wherever I find myself joining their journey) and then watching them navigate their own path brings me immense joy. Whether receiving birthday photos, a video of their first signs or an update after a CI surgery, I am so humbled to be able to connect so closely with families. Being a Parent Guide is so much more than just sharing resources, information, and support, it is truly all about the connections I make with my families and the bond we share along their journey. I am just as excited to start working within the ASTra program and assist families with their D/HH children’s educational advocacy needs.