Programmatic and Operational Leadership

Charis, was born and raised in Mexico, has a bachelor's degree in social and educational psychology from Universidad de Occidente, Sinaloa Mexico. It was love at first sight between Charis and LHA and will be celebrating her “sweet sixteen” as an integral member of the team this year.

Charis believes that to have a healthier community we must have equity. Achieving equity is not an easy task, it requires commitment and work of all, especially from our legislators and public institutions who should partner with the community that for generations have been most impacted by inequities and having its needs as a priority in decision-making.

She has been working at Latino Health Access for sixteen years, supporting internal planning and coordination of LHA’s holistic mission, coordinating outreach, education, and engagement efforts to connect residents with resources and services that impact their health, and fosters their civic participation in improving the environment in which they live, work, and play. She also engages a variety of stakeholders in Orange County – non-profits, schools, churches, businesses, and city officials – to work collaboratively with residents in improving the quality of life in Low income and disinvested neighborhoods. Currently, she coordinates the projects and education initiatives within the new Children and Youth Engagement Department (CYE), where she seeks to create a space that is safe, fun, and inspiring children, youth, and their families, helping them to grow and activate their peers to promote health equity.