Think Together Celebrates Instructor Melanie Barraza with Prestigious Leadership Award
On July 28, 2025, Think Together, a prominent nonprofit organization recognized for its commitment to afterschool and educational improvement programs in California, awarded Family and Community Engagement Coordinator Melanie Barraza with the coveted 2025 Randy Barth Leadership Award. This achievement acknowledges Barraza's steadfast commitment to fostering strong connections between families and educational resources, ultimately enhancing student success.
As part of the Family and Community Engagement (FACE) team in the Palm Springs area, Barraza has been instrumental in ensuring that families have equitable access to essential resources that support their children's education. In her role, she has successfully distributed over 8,000 resources and trained an impressive 1,500 staff members, strengthening school-family relationships throughout the state. Her efforts exemplify the vital work that Think Together does in bridging gaps between schools and the communities they serve.
Randy Barth, founder and CEO of Think Together, praised Barraza during the award ceremony, stating, "Melanie is a shining example of how leadership shows up in service to others. Her dedication to families and commitment to our mission inspires all of us to go further in changing the odds for kids."
The Randy Barth Leadership Award is a peer-nominated honor given annually to recognize team members who embody the collective mission, vision, and values of Think Together, which include integrity, community impact, and inclusive leadership. This award celebrates those who lead by setting a positive example and inspiring others through their dedication and integrity.
Barraza began her journey with Think Together in 2022 as a site program manager, where her hands-on experience allowed her to forge meaningful relationships with both students and families. Her time in this role provided valuable insights that drive her current work, fostering collaboration with various local businesses and organizations to further support the families she serves.
"I plan to keep advocating for families by meeting them where they are and ensuring resources are shared in ways that support them and their unique needs," said Barraza upon receiving the award. "My goal is to create environments where every family feels seen, supported, and empowered." With this vision, she aims to cultivate not only academic success but also a sense of community among the families she works with.
Think Together continues to make significant strides in educational opportunities, championing changes that affect hundreds of thousands of California students each year. Through initiatives in early learning, afterschool programs, staffing solutions, and leadership development for educators, they are determined to uplift every child and provide them with the tools necessary for success.
For those interested in learning more about Think Together’s impactful programs or how they can get involved, more information is readily available by visiting their website or by calling (888) 485-THINK. Together, with dedicated leaders like Melanie Barraza, Think Together is paving the way for a brighter and more equitable future for students and their families across California.