Tampa woman knows the ABCs of building success

Community, business and political leaders all say the building blocks to success come from a mix of good work habits and social networking.

A non-profit organization in Tampa called It's All About Kids recognizes that and strives to add those skills to a student's academic education.

Everyday Hero and It's All About Kids founder Wanda DeLaRosa started the after-school learning centers in 2001.

"We need to empower parents," she says.

The program has four areas to challenge children - a library, an etiquette/manners center, a computer laboratory and an arts/crafts/science center.

Students receive tutoring and parents receive regular progress reports.

Corporate donations and sponsorships help fund the organization, but parents pay for the care on a sliding scale based on their income.

"At the end, it doesn't matter if you have fancy clothes or a fancy car, if you've left a legacy then you have accomplished something," said DeLaRosa.

Her belief that really reaching "the top" means an appreciation for discipline, structure, social norms and values make her our Everyday Hero.

"I can sleep knowing I've touched a life," she said.