Today we’d like to introduce you to Gina.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was blessed to start my involvement at Guadalupe Centers as a participant in my youth. This led to me earning an opportunity to tutor elementary students in an afterschool program at the age of 14. I recently celebrated my 28th anniversary working at the Guadalupe Centers. It has been an honor to serve the Kansas City community. I always wanted to give youth a voice, which I strive to do that on the daily now; as the Director of Youth Development. I have assisted with implementing after school programming for elementary and middle school students, providing a free seven week cultural enrichment summer school program, a safe space for teens on weekends during summer months, implementing a life skills curriculum for middle and high school students, and employing high school youth; just to name a few of the programs. I also help carry on tradition with specific cultural events that highlight Latino culture, including Dia de Muertos, Cinco de Mayo and Hispanic heritage month. I am the very proud mother of five sons. I always include my boys in giving back to the community.! I strive to elevate our programs, and educate and inspire our youth.. I feel that my passion, my empathy, and my dedication to help people , especially youth feel connected and engaged, is one of my strengths. Providing caring adults, in a safe space, with opportunities and offerings, for young people will always be a personal mission of mine.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I will say some of the struggles have been, professionalizing the field of youth development.. I have always stressed that our youth workers, those who work the front lines, make an impact on the daily, and provide opportunities for our youth during the most critical hours of after school time..
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I can honestly say I’m very proud that I help to employ young people across Kansas City, and introduce them to the workforce. I always say that we grow our own. What I mean by this is I have young people that have been with me as a program participant for at least eight years, and when they age out, at 15, they can come back and volunteer, and then work for us; at the age of 16. This is unique, and is a coveted position held in high regard within our community. I believe in helping our young people connect with mentors, mental health resources, service learning opportunities and safe spaces for them to be themselves.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I love that Kansas City is family oriented. Our people are friendly, helpful, cultured and inclusive.
I feel like there’s always room to be better and do better..
