Based on recent census data, the Latinx population continues to grow. Is your volunteer force representative of your Latinx community? Do you notice a gap in representation? Are you looking for ways to engage and retain Latinx volunteers as part of your organization’s volunteer program? Is your organization equipped for the inclusion of more Latinx volunteers? Would you like to learn more about how volunteerism and the Latinx community intersect for your organization?

We will begin with a foundational understanding of Latinx, language, and the latest census results. Following, we will discuss ways to assess the current state of your volunteer program in terms of the Latinx communities you serve using census data. Together, we will review ways you can strategize for the future state you want to see in your volunteer force. Lastly, we will end with tips and best practices to attract, engage, recruit, recognize, retain, and support your Latinx volunteers.

By the end of our time together you will be able to:

1. Assess your organization's current state of Latinx representation
2. Plan for the future state of Latinx representation you want to see in you program
3. Learn some applicable tips to recruit and retain Latinx volunteers

About the Speaker: Monica Jasso

Monica Jasso has undergone a big career change this year. She was recently the Director of Engagement for Girl Scouts of the Desert Southwest. While she is still assisting in that role part-time, she also works full time for her local workforce board helping with economic development AND where she agreed to co-chair their diversity, equity, and inclusion committee. 

A proud Fronteriza, born in El Paso, Texas, she attended Texas A&M University, and finds purpose in advancing social good to positively impact communities. She holds over 25 years of experience working with adult learners and over 14 years working directly with volunteers. Monica uses her passion for mastering the art and science of great customer interactions to design genuine volunteer experiences and community collaborations. Above all, she has committed herself to viewing all from a lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion. DEI is a life commitment for her, not a practice or a job.

She notes three key markers in her professional career - changing the trajectory of her career from the corporate to the nonprofit sector, earning her Certificate in Volunteer Administration (CVA), and earning the 2022 Impact Award celebrating exemplary leadership of volunteer engagement professionals. A single mother of two, in her down time, she enjoys nature, traveling, trees, all things Star Trek, and Yelping about foodie spots.