Staff Spotlight: Rosa Herrera
Welcome back to Familiar Faces Friday! This week, we are introducing Rosa Herrera. Rosa is our Initiative Coordinator for our Success By 6 Program (SB6). Learn more about Rosa and her work at United Way of Lake County (UWLC) by reading below!
When did you start working at United Way of Lake County?
I started working at United Way of Lake County in May 2017.
What is your title and role?
My role as the Success by 6 Initiative Coordinator is to support and promote healthy early childhood development to ensure children enter school ready to succeed.
What made you want to be a part of this organization?
In 2012, I was earning my Bachelor’s Degree in social work and interning with United of Lake County. I quickly immersed myself to learn as much as I could about the organization, the community it served, and the overall work it was doing to reach its broader goal. During my time here, it became evident that I wanted to be a part of an organization that leads its community towards sustainability. Before coming back to the organization, I went on to specialize in non-profit management in philanthropy with a social work lens. I wanted to be a part of an organization that strives to lead in the Lake County community, through research, informed practice, and initiatives that continue to change lives through education.
Which of United Way’s programs do you connect to most and why?
All the programs at United Way of Lake County have a great purpose and perform at different capacities for the families and children of Lake County. Being at the forefront of programs and initiatives within SB6 has created a strong connection for me with the work we do. The program provides many benefits, from guiding parents to explore and implement tools and techniques, to becoming their child’s first teacher, to preparing students for kindergarten by providing educational programming and building key readiness skills.
What is your favorite part of your job here?
I have the pleasure of working with diverse populations, differing in age, origin, culture and socioeconomic status. I also enjoy developing programs and services for underserved populations, while keeping my social work values of using a strengths-based approach to help communities reach self-sufficiency. The myriad of connections amongst families, children and professionals sparks my passion and commitment in empowering and advocating for all people.
When you are not at work, what kinds of things do you do with your time?
Recently, I started an aerial yoga class, and while it requires physical strength, it also brings relaxation and mental clarity. Additionally, I enjoy reading books located in the 300s section of the library, attending music festivals, spending time with family and friends, drinking tea, and watching a good documentary or movie.
Thank you for joining us for another Familiar Faces Friday. To meet more people on staff, click here.
