Educating and advancing Latinos in philanthropy.

As a young Latina, I was thrown into a world at the age of 14 surrounded by a majority culture I didn't know much about. I had to learn how to navigate through conversations and environments I had never experienced before. Because I didn't see another person that looked like me, I imitated what I saw the majority of others around me doing.

From that point I was launched into a wonderful career where I've traveled plenty, sat in many board rooms and executive offices, and advised global, regional, and local leaders in fund development, community engagement, and strategic partnerships. Every board room I entered, I was the youngest, the least educated, one of just 1-2 women, and the only minority.

There was a deep void left inside me at the realization that every opportunity being afforded to me was leading me farther away from the black and brown communities I grew up with. Those were the men and women I looked up to my entire life and so desperately wanted to be like. Our folks were passionate, determined, hardworking, and resilient. No matter how hard life hit them, they would always find a way to overcome any and every obstacle.

Eriperla is my way of saying "thank you." I want to honor the many that came before me, prayed for me, supported me, and invested in me. It's because of them, my community, that I can do the work that I do. I don't want to be the ONLY one in the room anymore. I am calling on my black, brown, Asian, Indian, and every other minority ethnic group to join me in filling up the room!

I believe YOU are resilient and powerful! I invite you to join our Eriperla community that will help you discover how your story qualifies you in fulfilling your purpose.