Dear MANA De Imperial Valley Members, Sponsors, and Comunidad,
As the new President, it is my pleasure and honor to extend the warmest greetings to every one of you. On behalf of MANA de Imperial Valley Board of Directors, we are thrilled to welcome you as we embark on our 2025 journey. As a local chapter of a national nonprofit organization, our mission is to empower Latinas through education, leadership development, community service, and advocacy. Last year, we celebrated 30 years of serving our Imperial Valley. This new year, we are excited and committed to continue serving and building comunidad with excellence.
MANA de Imperial Valley Board Members
We would like to introduce you to our Board of Directors, who are dedicated to guiding MANA de Imperial Valley toward fulfilling its mission. Our board is composed of passionate individuals who bring diverse skills and experiences to the organization.
President: Lupita Castro
Vice-President: Jennifer Rodriguez-Godoy
Treasurer: Maria Enriquez Caldera
Secretary: Sher Cowie
Past-President: Dr. Ida Obeso-Martinez
Membership Director: Rebecca Terrazas-Baxter
Special Activities Director: Martha Cardenas Singh
Community Service Director: Guadalupe Torres
Marketing & Social Media Coordinator: Celeste Alvarez
Scholarship Co-coordinators: Belen Granados & Hortencia Armendariz
Las Primeras Co-coordinators: Nancy Salcedo & Viridiana Rosales
Hermanitas Co-coordinators: Lizzie Cardenas & Bertha Frausto

Las Primeras Announcement
After many wonderful years of celebrating the accomplishments of Latinas in our community in October, MANA de Imperial Valley is embarking on a new chapter! We are excited to announce a change in the tradition: this year, the Las Primeras Gala will be held in September.
This change is intended to align with the kickoff of Hispanic Heritage Month, allowing us to celebrate the vibrant contributions of Latinas in our community at the start of this important celebration. We believe this shift will deepen the cultural connection and significance of the event.
Thank you for your continued support and understanding as we adapt and grow together. We look forward to seeing you all at this year’s gala to continue celebrating the incredible achievements of Latinas in Imperial Valley!
💃✨ Save the date September 12, 2025!

Hermanitas
At MANA de Imperial Valley, we believe in the transformative power of mentorship, education, and cultural pride. One of our most cherished programs, Hermanitas, embodies this mission by guiding, inspiring, and empowering the young Latinas in our community to achieve their fullest potential.
What is the Hermanitas Program?
The Hermanitas Program is a mentorship initiative that pairs young Latinas with professional women who provide guidance, support, and encouragement. Together, they navigate critical areas like academic success, career exploration, leadership development, and cultural identity.
Why It Matters
For many young Latinas, the path to success can feel daunting. Cultural and societal barriers often pose unique challenges that require resilience and support. Hermanitas not only provides a safe space for these young women to voice their dreams and concerns but also connects them to a powerful network of role models who’ve walked similar paths. We welcome young women ages 8-18 to join us for our next Hermanitas meeting.

Final Thoughts
A Call to Action
This year, I invite you to join us in making an even greater impact. Whether it’s becoming a mentor, sponsoring a scholarship, or simply sharing the stories of our programs, your involvement is invaluable. Together, we can continue to uplift, inspire, and pave the way for generations of Latina leaders.
With Gratitude
On behalf of MANA de Imperial Valley, I want to thank you for your unwavering support and belief in our mission. As we move into this next chapter, I am filled with hope, determination, and pride in what we’ve built together.
Warm regards,
Lupita Castro
President MANA de Imperial Valley
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