Family Action Network Spotlight: Deanna Szente

My name is Deanna Szente, and I’m the proud mom of three amazing, wild, and loving kids. We live in Avon Lake, Ohio—just 20 minutes west of Cleveland—where our family life is beautifully chaotic and full of love. Whether we’re navigating busy days or embracing small joys, everything we do is grounded in connection, laughter, and support.

My "Why"

My journey into advocacy began with my children and the challenges I’ve faced as a parent. I’ve walked through the struggles many families know all too well—juggling caregiving, work, and fighting to access the resources our children deserve. I didn’t just want to be a voice for my own kids—I wanted to speak up for every parent who shares the same dreams and concerns for their families.

Finding Community Through Groundwork Ohio

I first connected with Groundwork Ohio after attending a DCY (Department of Children and Youth) listening event in Cleveland. That’s what led me to Groundwork Ohio where I connected with Malissa Harris, who invited me to share my story with legislators about critical issues like the child tax credit and affordable child care. That moment was just the beginning of my journey with the Family Action Network—a network that has since become a space of support, power, and purpose.

What I Fight For

As a parent and advocate, the issues that matter most to me include:

• Expanding access to early learning programs like Head Start and early intervention,

• Securing affordable, quality child care,

• Supporting maternal health and mental well-being,

• Ensuring access to Medicaid and healthcare services for children and families.

These aren’t just policies—they’re lifelines for working families, especially those navigating poverty or systemic inequities.

From Local Impact to National Change

One of my earliest advocacy experiences was becoming a board member for Lorain with Littles, a local organization offering free monthly play dates where families come together to connect, play, and access early childhood resources. Through this, we’ve created safe and welcoming spaces for families across Lorain County and beyond.

A standout moment in my advocacy journey came in 2025, when my 2-year-old son Ryin and I were selected to represent Ohio at Strolling Thunder, hosted by Zero to Three in Washington, D.C. There, I had the honor of speaking directly with senators and representatives about the challenges families like mine face—and what we need to thrive. That experience showed me the power of storytelling in influencing change.

Why Advocacy Matters

Being part of the Family Action Network has changed my life. Advocacy isn’t easy—but it’s everything to me. My children are my why, and I will never stop fighting for a better world for them and for every child. As the saying goes: “It is easier to build strong children than it is to repair broken adults.”

Through this work, I’ve learned that an advocate’s job is never truly done. And that’s okay—because change takes time, persistence, and people who care enough to keep showing up.

A Message to Parents Who Want to Get Involved

If you’re a parent or caregiver who wants to speak up but doesn’t know where to start—start by identifying what you’re passionate about. Reach out to organizations in your community. Ask questions. Get connected. I promise you—your voice matters. And there are people out there who will support and walk alongside you.

What Policymakers Need to Hear

To the leaders shaping policy: please know that access to affordable healthcare, quality child care, and early childhood education is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Working parents deserve better—from paid family leave to realistic, family-centered workplace policies. If we want strong communities, we must start by supporting strong families.

Looking Ahead

My hope for the future of Ohio’s children and families is simple but bold: that every child has what they need to thrive, and that no family is left behind. That means:

• Affordable, high-quality child care

• Access to physical and mental healthcare

• Quality education for all children, regardless of zip code

Why Lived Experience Matters

When it comes to policy, lived experience is everything. It brings authenticity and urgency to the conversation. These are the voices of the families we’re building systems and legislation for—so they must be at the center of every decision.

Every Child Deserves to Thrive

To me, helping every child reach their full potential means giving them a real chance—no matter their background, challenges, or circumstances. It means building a world where every child feels seen, supported, and safe. Where they are empowered to dream, grow, and become the best version of themselves.

Because when children thrive, communities thrive. And when families are supported, we all rise together.