Volunteer Spotlight: Yolanda Ramírez

by AmeriCorps Neighbor-to-Neighbor Member Ivana Hernández

What inspired Yolanda Ramírez to volunteer with Corazón was her desire to stay informed and support her community. From the first meeting she attended, she felt it was a space where she could learn, share and truly make a difference.

For the past three years, she has actively participated in Comité meetings. She has also volunteered at Día de Muertos, Pachanga and Art, and Event of the Heart, and regularly shares information about Corazón’s programs and resources with others. She almost always invites a friend to join her so they, too, can benefit and learn more about the organization’s work.

“Volunteering is important because it allows us to help one another,” Yolanda says. “When we participate, we strengthen our community and show that together we can create positive change.”

Yolanda also attends our weekly Zumba classes on Thursdays and says his activity has been important for both her physical and mental well-being. Through these classes, she has not only supported her health but also built connections with other members of the community.

One of the most meaningful moments in her journey was learning about emergency preparedness and community rights. She felt empowered and grateful to have access to such important information and knew she needed to share it with others.

Volunteering with Corazón has reinforced her belief that community is like family. At each Comité meeting, she feels part of a united group working toward the well-being of all. Her experience has shown her that her participation truly matters.