I am a recent graduate of Voces Unidas' Latino Network, a year-long program that helps leaders continue to thrive in their leadership journeys, so I know how impactful these programs are to Latinas and Latinos in the region.
As someone who immigrated to the Vail Valley with their family at the age of eight not knowing a single word of English or anyone at school, I navigated many challenges growing up. Now, I find it so rewarding to be able to help and provide guidance to others experiencing similar challenges.
I was fortunate to be part of the first Latino Network cohort where I learned a lot about my own leadership. The program connected me to other Latino leaders throughout the community, and was a great forum for discussing important issues affecting our community.
Voces Unidas gives the Latino community a much-needed voice in the central mountain region. The organization has been both an essential resource and strong advocate for families throughout the pandemic.
We need to continue to support leaders in the community so that we can advocate for ourselves, participate in civic institutions, and take on leadership roles here in the mountains region.
Jorge Rojas Lopez is a leader with Voces Unidas and a graduate of the Latino Network program. He is also the Assistant Vice President of FirstBank in the Roaring Fork Valley.
