Alondra Abrego-Viveros

Alondra Abrego-Viveros grew up in a small town of Brewster Washington. Having grown up in an agricultural town and worked in the fields and packing sheds from a young age with her mother Beatrice. She learned the importance of labor rights and improving the working environment for agricultural employees. As a first-generation graduate, she completed her A.A at Wenatchee Valley Community College where she learned that she had a passion for Psychology and Social development. She went on to pursue her B.A. at Washington State University. Although she was initially fearful of moving to a place where she did not know anyone. She was accepted among different communities through Vancouver Washington.

Currently, she is the Latino Club Advisor and WSU GEAR Up Site Manager at Mountain View High School. She hopes to help underrepresented students pursue their dreams with confidence while working on increasing college access and opportunities for exploration. She is also dedicated to empowering underrepresented students to speak up and stand for what they believe.

V/Oscar Beltran Leyva

V/Oscar Beltran Leyva was born in Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico moved to the US at the age of four and has called Vancouver, WA home since the age of seven. V is a child of immigrants and an immigrant themself, first generation, latine, passionate and social individual.

V graduated from Clark College with a transfer do WSUV where they graduated with a Bachelors in communications and psychology. Since graduating high school, they have worked mainly in the social services realm working with unaccompanied and homeless youth, later in suicide prevention and mental health, and now working in education to help the next generation. Their passion sits in working with youth and marginalized communities as much as possible.

Overall V wants to be of service to those who need it the most. They do this through their work in education. Working with grassroots organizations like Conexion Cultural bringing fun, engaging, and resourceful events to their community. They also engage in scholarship committees with the Community Foundation. They are excited to try new things and start the challenge of working in policy change.

Ana Karen Betancourt Marcias

Ana is a Washington State University-Vancouver alum, where she studied sociology with a focus on equity, diversity and inclusion. She supports Latino youth through after-school programming assisting students to explore higher education, or trades. Ana is deeply passionate about sharing Xincanx studies with youth. Her goal is to earn her masters in Xincanx studies, and later a PhD to one day be a professor at a community college.

Sam Garrison

Sam Garrison (they/them) is a proud Afro-Latinx born and raised in Southern California. Sam Garrison is a passionate advocate for social justice and equity, dedicated to creating meaningful change in their community. Their commitment is evident through a diverse career and academic history focused on leadership, community outreach, and advocacy. Sam has worked extensively on social action projects aimed at addressing systemic inequalities, particularly in areas of gender, sexuality, and racial justice. As a student in the American University School of Public Affairs’ Leadership Program Sam created programming for peers that focused on informed and enthusiastic consent, educational resilience programming for at-risk youth, and mentoring students as they create and execute their social action projects. Sam additionally worked as a Peer Educator at their university working with on-campus fraternities and sororities and on-campus organizations to provide Bystander Intervention Training. Their track record of mentoring, educating, and organizing programs that empower marginalized communities, reflects a deep-seated dedication to fostering inclusion and resilience.

Since moving to Vancouver, Washington in 2023, Sam has continued to demonstrate a deep passion for building community and serving marginalized populations first in their role as an LGBTQ+ Domestic Violence Advocacy Specialist at the YWCA Clark County where they provided crisis intervention and advocacy services to survivors of domestic violence. Sam proudly served as an advocate before transitioning to the Prevention Program of the YWCA Clark County earlier this year, where they now serve as the BIPOC Youth Outreach Coordinator where they now conduct outreach to BIPOC youth to get them engaged not only in prevention programming, but also to get youth to become engaged in social justice work within their communities. Whether through public speaking, peer education, or leadership roles, Sam consistently demonstrates a drive to advance equity and social justice in all their endeavors.

Virginia Gomez

Virginia Gomez is first-generation Mexican-American and grew up in Los Angeles, California. In Los Angeles, she witnessed first hand gang violence and experienced poverty. Her parents were very involved in her life and instilled in her the value of education. From an early age, she was raised to pursue a higher education and to break the stereotypes of Latinx women.

Ms. Gomez’s family moved to Portland, Oregon about 20 years ago. She and her sister were the first Latinas to work at the local community center in North Portland. She worked to engage local families and to foster a sense of community by planning and facilitating events to serve communities of color. At this time, Ms. Gomez discovered her passion of providing social and mental health services to children, young adults and their families.

Ms. Gomez is the second in her family to graduate from a four-year university and to earn a Master’s in Social Work. In addition, Ms. Gomez is a Licensed School Social Worker and a bilingual-bicultural therapist.

Ms. Gomez recently launched her own private practice and consultation services naming it RAICES as she believes each story begins with planting the seeds that will grow roots to help each individual to transform. Her work experience includes individual and family therapy, community and family engagement, and implementation of Social Emotional Learning curriculum, Empowering self-love support groups for identified females, and Latinx support groups in school settings and in the community. She is proud of her Mexican roots and wants to continue to be a role model for BIPOC young adults. She is enthusiastic about providing services to empower young people to be self-sufficient and successful in their transition to adulthood.

Shyquilia Hampton

Shyquilia Hampton was born in Vancouver, Washington, and raised by her grandmother, who played a pivotal role in shaping her values and aspirations. Her grandmother’s unwavering support and guidance instilled in her a deep sense of compassion and resilience. This upbringing inspired her journey into the field of counseling, where she became a registered certified drug and alcohol counselor. Her authentic approach allows her to connect with clients on a meaningful level, fostering an environment of trust and understanding. She is driven by a passion for helping others and believes in the transformative power of genuine relationships in the healing process.

In addition to her work as a counselor, she serves as a case manager for Community Mediation Services, where she focuses on training youth in conflict resolution and peer mediation. This role allows her to empower young individuals to navigate their daily challenges and develop the skills needed to resolve conflicts peacefully. She is dedicated to creating a supportive space where youth can express themselves, learn from one another, and find constructive solutions to the issues they face. Her commitment to hard work and dedication drives her to ensure that each youth she works with feels valued and equipped to handle the complexities of their lives.

She is passionate about self-care, both for herself and those she serves, recognizing that personal well-being is essential for effective support. By modeling healthy coping strategies and encouraging youth to prioritize their own mental and emotional health, she aims to foster resilience and growth. Her work is not just a job; it’s a calling that she embraces wholeheartedly. She is committed to making a lasting impact in the lives of the youth she works with, helping them build a brighter future through empowerment, education, and understanding.

Miracle Joslin

Miracle Joslin is a proud 4th generation descendant of enslaved Black Americans, born into a life rich in purpose and passion for social justice. Her dedication centers on uplifting the Black American community and culture through a commitment to justice. Growing up in predominantly white neighborhoods in the Pacific Northwest, Miracle had an upbringing of little cultural refuge, experiencing habitual racial harm in the multiplicities of life.

Despite the adversities she always found herself grounded in Church, the foundation that bloomed her confidence and sincere love for people. Through her career and volunteerism she is always striving to stamp out undervaluation, underrecognition, and lack of acknowledgment faced by communities of color. Recognizing the profound effect of social connections, she creates and joins spaces for connection, empowerment, and transformation. From thoughtfully organized community events to mentoring younger youth, she aims to blend encouragement with robust support, cultivating an inclusive atmosphere that inspires collaboration and generates momentous power. Devoted to addressing critical, long-overlooked issues, Miracle raises awareness of essential human needs while pushing innovative ideas that enhance holistic well-being of marginalized and underserved communities. Her unwavering pledge to promote belonging and equity, positions her as a visionary voice in the pursuit of a more just society.

This is merely the start of her journey. Miracle is eager to grow alongside her neighbors, share opportunities, and continue to advance community driven goals. Apart from her passion for service, you can find Miracle being a creative learner – exploring the natural environment, meeting new people, and putting together cute outfits.

Salvador David Magallón

Salvador David Magallón was born and raised in San Diego, CA and moved to the PNW region in 2018. He is a first generation Mexican-American and United States Air Force Veteran. He is currently working as a Cardio-Vascular Technologist at Peacehealth SW Washington Medical Center where he is also a union steward representing his fellow employees for the Oregon Federation of Nurses and Healthcare Professionals, AFT Local 5017.

Having grown up in a border community, he witnessed abject poverty and the struggles of those less fortunate throughout his childhood and into adulthood. He participated in clothes and food drives as well as helped build homes for charity organizations in Tijuana, Mexico. His family also assisted immigrants as they transitioned to their new lives in the US. He has developed a deep sense of social justice as he continues to explore various paths to serve his community. As a father, he feels we must improve society for future generations.

Salvador has a passionate interest in the history and inequity of urban expansion and migration. Housing, public transportation and pedestrian-focused infrastructure are where he feels he can make the greatest impact on improving the lives of our working class community members. He enjoys spending time with his lovely family and pursuing various hobbies.

Cristian Olivares

Cristian Olivares (He/Him) was born and raised in White Salmon, Washington. His parents are first-generation immigrants from Colima, Mexico. After graduating high school Cristian began working in the local packing houses. During his time at the packing houses he got to experience first hand the discrimination towards farm/labor workers. After a few years at the packing houses he attended Chemeketa Community College to pursue a degree in AutoCad.

After college Cristian moved back to White Salmon. He started working in the Aero-Space field when he realized that he had a true passion for helping the latino community. Since then he has joined Washington Gorge Action Programs as their Co-Director of Civic Engagement. He is working hard to educate the latino community on Civics with the hopes of getting them more involved in their local government and voicing their concerns.

He is very passionate about the outdoors, when he isn’t working you can find him fishing at the local lakes, mountain biking or hunting in the fall. He enjoys cooking, spending time with his Wife and kids the most.

Jason Paggett

Jason Paggett grew up in Vancouver, WA. He experienced homelessness for a few years and struggled with addiction and alcoholism. Now he’s 3 years sober and working in the community at the Council for the Homeless. There he uses his own life experiences to help others get better lives. In his free time he likes to watch movies and go out to eat with friends. He hopes to learn about being an efficient leader. e with his Wife and kids the most.

Elisha Reynolds

Elisha Reynolds I was born in Portland, Oregon, and relocated to Vancouver at the age of 15 to attend high school. During this time, I became actively engaged with the YWCA, an experience that significantly shaped my commitment to community service. After graduating, I deepened this commitment by serving as a Prevention Intern, where I contributed to creating safer and more supportive environments.

My journey  in community service didn’t stop there. I’ve also volunteered with many organizations like BMBB  lifestyle and Vancouver Elite Outreach as an example. Joining the VCLI program was a deeply personal decision for me, driven by my desire to address issues like addiction, abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence in my community. This mission is close to my heart, as I’ve personally experienced the impact of sexual assault and mental health struggles from a young age. These experiences have fueled my passion for making a difference and helping others navigate similar challenges.

Outside of my professional and volunteer work, I have a deep passion for playing football, going to the gym, researching cars, and spending quality time with my beautiful wife.

Natalie Scott

Natalie was born in Fort Riley, Kansas. While she considers herself raised in Lacey, Washington as that’s where she spent the majority of her childhood, she was afforded the opportunity of experiencing many parts of the United States as an army brat. She came to the Portland Metro area in pursuit of her Bachelor’s degree in 2013. In 2017, she graduated from University of Portland with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education.

Since graduating, Natalie has had the opportunity to build upon her experience within various public elementary school classroom settings and fuel her passion for empowering youth to use their voice. She has also recently returned to the classroom herself and is nearing the end of her pursuit towards a Master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. Natalie brings many perspectives to the conversation as a black woman with an immigrant parent. She is excited to hear her peers’ perspectives and continue having tough conversations about the racial inequalities and injustices within our community. When Natalie isn’t in the classroom, she enjoys reading, playing sports, and listening to music.

Kelvin Thompson

Kelvin Thompson, After 17+ years in the healthcare industry, is currently a System Director at PeaceHealth.

In his professional career Kelvin has served in the roles of Healthcare Chaplain, Chaplain Manager and Associate Director, along with his current role.

Education wise Kelvin holds three master’s degrees with concentrations in Theology, Pastoral Care and Healthcare Administration. Kelvin is passionate about holistic healthcare for every patient every time. He is also a champion of all Diversity, Equity and Inclusion work.

Kelvin is married and has three teenage children. Traveling is their favorite family activity.

Eduardo Torres Diaz

Eduardo Torres Diaz is a proud immigrant with immigrant parents, Eduardo’s journey from Mexico City to Vancouver, Washington at the age of 6 has been shaped by both challenges and triumphs. Becoming a young father while still in high school led him to make difficult choices, including leaving school to provide for his family. This experience ignited his passion for supporting others navigating similar journeys and advocating for alternative pathways to success.

Today, Eduardo works in commercial construction reading building plans for large-scale projects, a field he discovered after leaving high school, and he is dedicated to empowering youth to build their futures, regardless of their background or educational journey. He recently co-founded an immigrant and latine firm to help small businesses and nonprofits thrive, spearheads “Vamos, Vancouver” to ensure the Latino community receives essential resources in Spanish, and serves as Vice President of the SW Washington LULAC council, championing civic engagement and advocacy for underrepresented communities.

Eduardo’s seven years of service in a refugee shelter instilled in him a profound understanding of the challenges faced by newcomers, further fueling his passion for supporting migrant, immigrant, and refugee communities. During the pandemic, he also launched free sports programs for at-risk youth, demonstrating his proactive approach to addressing community needs. On weekends, you might find Eduardo volunteering, hiking with his family, or enjoying some delicious tacos at El Viejon.

Rashan Williams Jr.

Rashan Williams Jr. serves our youth and communities in the PNW through youth mentoring ( Shifted Theory LLC) as well as providing Restorative Justice to k-12 school settings. This is not work for him, but a passion in life.

Rashan was born in the early 90’s in Los Angeles, CA to two teenage parents, one particularly engulfed in the gang culture and who is now currently serving a life sentence. As a child of an incarcerated parent Rashan had to maneuver life’s hurdles from a different lens and teach himself certain skills. Growing up he knew the impact a positive role model could have on someone’s life or lack thereof. Throughout life Rashan was afforded the opportunity to find mentoring through sports, some of his friends were not awarded these same opportunities, this drove his passion for focusing on kids who slipped through the cracks.This is the reason he is here, these interactions molded the intentionality for becoming a dedicated mentor, community activist, father, and coach to many at-risk youth. Rashan possesses a strong belief system, core values, and his (why’s) for being in this line of work are strong. He is not only a devoted father to two beautiful daughters, but also has teenage siblings growing up in today’s generation. With social media , drug culture , and rigid lifestyles being the influence of the youth today his focus is on shifting the theory and mindsets of youth and young adults. With a rich background in youth advocacy, the aim is to inspire individuals to reach their full potential in life alongside giving back to the next generation that follows them.

Through work for BIPOC communities & youth mentoring, Rashan is striving to help underrepresented populations gain and regain their independence to thrive successfully.