The United States is home to millions of immigrants including those who are undocumented, and ineligible for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). Even though the undocumented population faces strict barriers, it is a resilient community that overcomes, empowers, and succeeds.

“It’s important to make sure that the Latino voice is heard so that we are not left behind,” said Hartley. “We don’t think our voice is strong enough, and that’s wrong.”

The day before Earth Day, a small contingent of environmentalists and public health advocates called on the federal government to enact stricter regulations on CPS Energy’s Spruce coal plant.

Connecticut’s Hispanic residents continue to be disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, especially when it comes to vaccine and booster access.

Non-profit organization leaders have a unique calling to service and community development. Michelle Neuenschwander has been working for Hispanic Access Foundation since the organization was founded. Throughout the years, Neuenschwander has witnessed Hispanic Access grow from a 4-person team to a multi-faceted organization with members of diverse backgrounds.

Hispanic Access Foundation’s Chief of Programs David Armijo and Chantelle Ruidant-Hansen, MANO Program alumni, joined clean air advocates in Texas for a press conference to call on President Biden and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to enact the strongest possible Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) and Cross State Air Pollution (CSAPR) safeguards to reduce pollution from the W.A. Parish Generating Station and other dirty power plants in Texas.

Hispanic Access Foundation’s Por La Creacion Faith-Based Alliance met with Chair of the Council of Environmental Quality Brenda Mallory to discuss the need to consider equity and environmental justice while advancing 30x30 efforts and the administration’s America the Beautiful plan.

A local nonprofit is organizing a free clinic designed to improve the COVID-19 vaccination rate among Latinos.

Vanessa earned a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and Management from Cal Poly Humboldt (formally known as Humboldt State University). After college, she served as an AmeriCorps at Friends of the Dunes in Arcata, California. During her time at this non-profit organization, she cultivated a passion for the conservation and protection of natural resources and ecosystems. She recognizes the inherent connection that exists between underrepresented communities and their natural surroundings. Vanessa is thrilled to be working with an organization that encompasses her values and vision of creating opportunities and empowering individuals. During her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, and bird watching in San Diego.

Why she works for Hispanic Access…

"It’s rare to find an organization that encompasses the same passion for helping Latino Communities thrive. In my work with other non profit organizations, there was always that lack of participation and presence of Latinos, it wasn’t until I joined Hispanic Access, that I was able to understand how we can help Latinos be present and leaders in their communities."

In her spare time…

“I enjoy traveling, cooking, hiking, bird watching, and reading books.”

Her favorite book…

“I have so many favorite books it’s hard to narrow it down to one! Although I have to say that one book that has always stood out to me is, A Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold. It has often been considered a classic in environmental literature, emphasizing the importance of ecological awareness and ethical responsibility toward the environment. It is one of my favorites because it helps readers understand the deeper connection with nature and helps recognize the intricate relationships between humans and the environment.”

A person she finds inspirational…

“I find both of my parents to be an inspiration to me. They were two immigrant teenagers from Mexico that managed to overcome any obstacle that came their way. And just like them, I plan to do the same.”

Emerge: Escuelas para la Vida y Salud Integral is a non-profit organization that was born out of a dream. Dr. and Rev. Maricarmen Laureano founded Emerge with her husband Billy Jusino to empower communities and improve their quality of life through comprehensive restoration and faith-based education.