"After taking a close look at the work that Hispanic Access Foundation was doing in the community, I noticed a common thread in all the testimonies I had been hearing and reading; everyone spoke about how amazing they felt when they were engaged with Hispanic Access,” said Saavedra. “All of the accolades they attributed to the organization seemed to be a balance of feeling welcome, supported, and inspired. Hearing those testimonies, along with my passion for the outdoors and empowering others, made joining the team an easy choice.”

For over fifteen years, Saavedra has committed to standing up for integrated programming in education, mental health, food justice, and immigration policy that has served thousands of people across the country, creating a movement toward more equitable and inclusive spaces. As the Community Navigator Program Director, she guides a team that connects Latino-led, Latino-serving, and tribal communities to capacity-building programs.

“Jessyca is a leader in strategic planning, program design and implementation, and partnership building," said Maite Arce, president and CEO of the Hispanic Access Foundation. “Her unique set of skills, background, and knowledge make her a great asset to the team.”