Evelyn is an Administrative Navigator for the Community Navigator Program where she supports the needs and operation of the program and Community Navigators.

Prior to joining the Hispanic Access Foundation, Evelyn’s career has spanned over 20 years as an Administrative Professional at both Yale-New Haven Health and Yale University. Her previous positions have given her experience in both Academic and Clinical settings.

Why she works for Hispanic Access…

"I have a passion for working in underserved communities, lifting up Hispanic voices and sharing resources to build up the Hispanic community. Hispanic Access does exactly that!"

In her spare time…

“I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also love reading and watching movies.”

Her favorite book…

“I love to read my Bible as it reminds me of God's beautiful plan and promises. My favorite book has always been “To Kill A Mockingbird” ever since I read it in high school.”

A person she finds inspirational…

“My father is my inspiration, my hero, a warrior.. He has been such a great influence in my life. From picking “Pallitos” in the field at the young age of 15 to support his family, to serving in the military and becoming a Drug Enforcement Agent. He overcame many obstacles and tragic circumstances in his life by God’s grace and strength. He is now battling Alzheimer's disease and I can still see that warrior soul inside of him!”

Community Navigator at the Hispanic Access Foundation, Martin passionately connects Latino-led, Latino-serving, and tribal communities across the United States to transformative capacity-building programs. With an impressive 19-year journey in advocacy in the non-profit world, Martin has been a driving force for equitable public land access, leaving an indelible mark in community leadership, nonprofit organization, immigration resources, community outreach, and government affairs.

One of Martin's notable achievements includes participation of a groundbreaking initiative that increased public land access in underserved Latino communities by 30% at the San Gabriel National Monument, Sand to Snow, Castle Mountain, and Coachella Deserts Monument designation. His strategic approach to community engagement has not only fostered trust but has also resulted in a rise in participation in local faith groups environmental conservation projects.

In addition to his impactful advocacy, Martin brings a unique skill set to the table, including bilingual proficiency and a deep understanding of diverse cultures. His ability to seamlessly bridge cultural gaps has been instrumental in fostering meaningful connections with communities, facilitating smoother collaboration and understanding.

Martin is dedicated to advancing the Hispanic Access Foundation's mission by applying his expertise in community and network building. His work is not just a profession but a commitment to empowering communities and driving sustainable change. Through his role, Martin continues to contribute to the foundation's overarching goals of creating a more inclusive and resilient future for all.

Why he works for Hispanic Access…

"Nearly a decade ago, I had the privilege of collaborating with the Hispanic Access Foundation during my tenure as youth and associate Pastor at a church in Los Angeles, California. Dr. Maite Arce introduced me to this dynamic organization in 2014, and witnessing their unwavering commitment to empowering marginalized communities left an indelible mark on me. The dedication, passion, and genuine care displayed by the Hispanic Access team resonated with my own values as an advocate for community empowerment. Maintaining a close relationship with the organization over the years, I have been consistently inspired by their holistic approach to community development. When the opportunity arose to contribute directly as a member of their team, I knew it was a chance to align my professional journey with my commitment to community advocacy."

In his spare time…

“In my spare time, I love to be with my wife and our two wonderful little kids. Traveling, going out to nature, visiting theme parks, and embarking on wild adventures are some of our favorite things to do. As a pastor, I cherish my role in our church, where I have the privilege to mentor and challenge our community, inspiring them to live a better life.”

His favorite book…

“My favorite book? There are so many I enjoy. Firstly, it's the Bible personally. Where else can you get history, culture, and great worldwide events all in one single place? I also enjoy 'Traction' by Gino Wickman; I keep it on my desk daily. I like 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' by Dale Carnegie, and I also enjoy Dr. Seuss books. 'The Cat in the Hat' books are some of my favorites..”

A person he finds inspirational…

“An inspirational figure in my life is my wife – the most compassionate, caring, and bravest person I have ever met. She exudes strength and grace in the face of challenges from her upbringing. Despite the hurdles, she remains positive, graceful, and elegant, always finding the bright side of things. She is a true inspiration, my backbone, my support, and my personal encourager. Her resilience is nothing short of amazing.”

Andrea is a Mexican American seasoned professional in institutional development, adept at fortifying organizations and guiding them through the planning, monitoring, fundraising, and execution of projects. She is a people person, thriving in dynamic interactions with teams and individuals. Andrea unfailingly discovers pathways to achieve goals and propel the organization forward. Andrea holds a particular interest in initiatives that promote development for women and minority groups.

Before joining the Hispanic Access Foundation, Andrea accumulated a diverse background collaborating with both Mexican and American non-profit organizations and Think Tanks. She excelled in enhancing organizational capacities, mobilizing human capital, and establishing successful fundraising programs. Her expertise encompasses various critical topics including human rights, access to justice, gender-based violence, competitiveness, education, and anti-corruption.

Andrea holds a bachelor’s degree in international relations from Tec de Monterrey and is on the brink of presenting her master’s in public policy thesis. She has also earned several diplomas, including one in Gender Studies Research from El Colegio de México (COLMEX), another in Strategic Social Impact from UCLA, one in International Cooperation for Development from Instituto Mora, a Diploma in Project Management for Development in Latin America and the Caribbean from the Inter-American Development Bank, and a Diploma in International Women’s Health and Human Rights from Stanford University.

Why she works for Hispanic Access…

"I love working for Hispanic Access because our values align incredibly well. As a member of the Hispanic community, as a woman, and as a global citizen, I closely have witnessed the lack of access, along with discrimination and inequalities based on race and gender.

I was eager to find a job where my energy, time, and ideas serve a meaningful purpose. What better place than here, with this team and this mission?"

In her spare time…

“Andrea can’t stay still. In her spare time, she’s either working out, gardening, teaching and practicing yoga, or learning something new. She relishes in hearty laughter, cherishes moments with her dogs, and treasures time spent with her friends and family.”

Her favorite book…

“It depends on the mood and the circumstances in my life when I’m reading it, but “The Unbearable Lightness of Being” by Milan Kundera is one of my all-time favorites. I believe Kundera brilliantly captures the fragility and absence of absolute weight in human life. Every time I read it, the novel presents a different story and challenges my notion of existence and the meaning of life in different ways.”

A person she finds inspirational…

“I find inspiration in two types of individuals. Firstly, those who challenge the status quo and pave the way for the next generation to be free and proud of their true selves. Simone de Beauvoir, a personal favorite of mine as a feminist, embodies this spirit. Secondly, I'm inspired by individuals who persistently grow, learn, and move forward in their lives in pursuit of their happiness. My parents are shining examples of this for me.”

Amaris Alanis Ribeiro is the Director of Forestry and STEM at the Hispanic Access Foundation.

Amaris is an environmental change maker having worked with nonprofits, government, informal science centers, and the outdoors. She has nearly 20 years of experience in conservation, environmental education, and STEM.

Most recently Amaris was the Center Director for a nature center in Chicago. There she oversaw a 46 acre natural area and the operations of a public facility open 7-days a week, serving 75,000 visitors annually.

Throughout her tenure, Amaris has served on local boards and as a national advisor, and has garnered program awards and multi-year grants. Amaris’ expertise includes using asset-based approaches in centering communities in environmental equity and justice, bridging climate and health, and climate migration. She has a bachelor in science degree in Ecology, Ethology, Evolution from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign and is completing a master’s degree in Science Education.

Why she works for Hispanic Access…

"I am excited about bringing my expertise on forestry and STEM while focusing efforts with the Latino community. I also like the idea of working for an organization that has a strong internal culture and strives for innovation and growth."

In her spare time…

“I enjoy nature, going out for an evening, serving on committees, and supporting grassroot efforts.”

Hi, my name is Marisol, Let me begin by saying a little about my personal life, which is that I love being a wife and mom. I was born and raised in the Bronx and my family is from Yabucoa, Puerto Rico.

As for my professional career, I have a track record of over two decades in Business Managing-Bookkeeping in a non-profit organization. I worked on critical financial functions, including General Ledger (GL), Accounts Receivable (A/R), Accounts Payable (A/P) journals, Trial Balance, and payroll records. Simultaneously, I managed bank accounts and investment portfolios. In addition, I assumed a pivotal role in payroll administration.

My professional memberships include Notary Public certification in the State of New York, the American Association of Notaries, and the National Association of Professional Women. My educational background includes a Full Charge Bookkeeping Certificate from Lehman College, and a degree in Business Administration from Baruch College. My professional award includes a Director’s Award from my former employer the William Alanson White Institute.

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the extraordinary success and accomplishments of the Hispanic Access Foundation.

Why she works for Hispanic Access…

"I decided to work for the Hispanic Access Foundation after reading their cause of helping Latinos. In my opinion, as a Nuyorican a.k.a. Puerto Rican from New York, this would have been a great resource for my mom at the time she came to New York without a word of English."

In her spare time…

“In my spare time, I spend it with my husband, daughter and my Yorkie taking trips out of NY. I also love the movies. I'm what you call an introvert because I love spending time home.”

Her favorite book…

“My favorite book is "Misery" by Stephen King. I love any horror movie that is not too gory. I also love non-fictional books. I just finished reading Rosie Perez biography.”

A person she finds inspirational…

“My mom is the most inspirational person in my life. The things that she went through as a child, adult and a mom, well all I can say is "Gracias, Mami. Por todo lo que sacrifices para que ieramos una educacion superior y una buena vida.”

As a member of Hispanic Access Foundation’s Hispanic Leadership Network (HLN), Jasmine works in facilitating HLN’s mentoring and leadership program to support young, mid-career and experienced Latino pastors serving high-need rural and urban congregations across the U.S.

Growing up in Southern California, and within different Spanish-speaking communities, Jasmine developed her love for public service and community outreach by watching her mother serve in the local church and perform faith-based outreach to those in need. Jasmine was later able to serve alongside her mother in hosting back to school drives and engaging in outreach initiatives.

Jasmine holds a B.A in Cultural Anthropology (emphasis in Community Development in Latino Communities). While in college, she served as an intern for the Jesse Miranda Center for Hispanic Leadership, where she assisted the leadership team with creating connections between the faith community, education, and the Hispanic community at large. She also worked with local Hispanic clergy and faith leaders to facilitate annual Latino Prayer Breakfasts and other community engagement events in the Southern California area. Additionally, during her college years, she was able to participate in mission work at Footsteps Orphanage in Honduras (Tegucigalpa and Santa Barbara). Upon graduation, Jasmine worked as a medical outreach worker in Downtown San Diego, focusing on high need communities such as the homeless and Spanish-speaking immigrants. She later transitioned into the role of bilingual prenatal case manager in the vibrant Latino community of Barrio Logan/Logan Heights, where she was able to provide prenatal case management and support to the local community. In addition to these roles, she has also worked within the education field as a teacher and in the healthcare field as a Patient Liaison and advocate.

Why she works for Hispanic Access…

"I desire to see Latino and underrepresented communities flourish and thrive. I love the idea that I can couple my love for community development, my cultural anthropology education, and my passion for the Latino community into my role as Program Associate. Through Hispanic Access, I can utilize my personal, educational, and professional experiences to benefit the communities we serve. Hispanic Access provides me the opportunity to do what I love while making a significant impact that will uplift Latino leaders and the community."

In her spare time…

“I LOVE watching K-dramas and foreign films! My other interests include collecting cute stationery, ballet class, going to the orchestra, the beach, and traveling. I am vegan as well, so I love searching out new restaurants to enjoy and trying out new recipes.”

Her favorite book…

“I have so many books I love but one that was impactful to me is “Let Me Be A Woman” by Elisabeth Elliot. It touches on themes of faith, family, and growing into womanhood.”

A person she finds inspirational…

“As cliché as this may sound, I would say my mother. She is an amazing woman and her consistent character, integrity, and walk of faith has truly inspired me and pushed me to be the woman I am today. She is constantly motivating me to not only be successful externally, but to cultivate my inner wellbeing and spirit. She is the same behind closed doors as she is in public and that is rare. She is truly my best friend!”

Rivers and streams, the lifeblood of our planet, have sustained human civilization and ecosystems throughout history. These meandering currents, majestic flows, and interconnected networks shape the very essence of our natural world, including where and how we live. This report delves into the significance of rivers, their role in the water cycle, and the vital link between healthy rivers and the cultures that are sustained by them. 

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month - Elevating our Comunidad

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15th to October 15th, let’s recognize the histories, achievements and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans nationwide. During this month and throughout the year, Hispanic Access Foundation works to elevate the voices of Latino and Hispanic Americans.

Whether we are helping Latinos improve their financial literacy, explore new workforce opportunities, become environmental stewards or advocate for better health, trust and a commitment to equity is at the core of everything we do. Our initiatives, programs and grassroots outreach efforts are aimed at empowering and inspiring individuals to improve themselves and their families and, in turn, strengthen their communities and their country. Check out our brand film “Mejor Juntos” to learn more.

Hispanic and Latino Americans have diverse, unique stories to be told. Throughout the year, we feature the stories of our network members across our programs who are becoming leaders in their communities.

Top 2023 Spotlight Stories

Join the celebration! Check out our social media toolkit to see how you can help us amplify our efforts during #HispanicHeritageMonth:

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