Originally from Mexico, Teresa has spent her entire adult life in the United States, working primarily in non-profit organizations where she found her calling and passion for working in social services. Leveraging her proficient language skills has positioned her well in the research, development and implementation of bilingual and culturally appropriate health-specific information and training. She is particularly passionate about issues pertaining to social justice, equity and inclusion; more specifically, immigrants, LGBTQIA+ rights, sexual health and education, women's rights and economic equity. Teresa has spent the last 13+ years in workforce development, currently at JVS as Director of Contract Compliance. In her role she advocates for health workers that are long-term unemployed or underemployed to obtain gainful employment or advancement to become financially stable in the greater San Francisco Bay Area.