
Hello
Hello, I’m Dr. Sonia Toledo, Founder and CEO of Dignity of Children, a certified Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) dedicated to transforming the way we nurture human potential — starting with the adults who guide our youth.
For over 30 years, my life’s work in youth development has centered on one core truth: we cannot raise emotionally intelligent children without emotionally intelligent adults. The power of family lies in strengthening the emotional intelligence (EQ) of parents, caregivers, and educators — the adults who hold the greatest influence over who our children become.
My Story
Every child’s story begins within the family — not just the people they live with, but the relationships that shape who they believe they are and who they can become.
For over 30 years, I’ve worked in youth development — training thousands of educators, directors, and staff to guide young people toward confidence, clarity, and purpose. But the truth is, our work doesn’t start in schools or programs. It begins at home.
As a single mother raising two sons in Harlem, NY, I learned — the hard way — that love and good intentions aren’t always enough. I had moments of doubt, frustration, and guilt. Even with a doctorate in education and years of experience, I often wondered, “Am I doing this right?” But those years became my greatest classroom. Through every challenge, I discovered that emotional intelligence — not control, not perfection — is what holds a family together and helps children thrive.
The Power of Family was born from that truth. It’s about bridging the generation gap not through lectures or “fixing” each other, but through connection — listening, sharing, and creating space for everyone’s voice to matter. When adults and youth learn to communicate with empathy, share wisdom across generations, and live in alignment with their values, they don’t just coexist — they co-create a vision for the future.
This movement is about turning our homes into learning communities rooted in compassion, trust, and curiosity. Because when families align on purpose and values, we raise children who lead with heart — and we rediscover ourselves in the process.
Let’s reimagine family not as a role we play, but as a sacred relationship we nurture — one conversation, one act of courage, one moment of connection at a time.
Stay curious and never stop dreaming — and remember, you matter!
Contact
If something in our conversations or stories resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or someone passionate about emotional growth; your voice belongs in this dialogue.
Reach out to share your thoughts, invite collaboration, or start a conversation about creating change in your community.


