It is with excitement that Chatham Literacy introduces Guadalupe Avellaneda, our new Program Coordinator for the United Way BOLD Goal project. With a Master’s degree in Social Work and extensive experience in the field, we are confident that her expertise and dedication will be invaluable assets to our organization.
Understanding the BOLD Goal
The United Way of Chatham County’s BOLD Goal initiative is a significant undertaking focused on ending and preventing poverty for 2,000 people in 2,000 days. The initiative involves eight key partner agencies as part of its a core case management team to address poverty and improve social determinants of health in Chatham County, NC. Chatham Literacy is committed to being one of those partner agencies.We will support the initiative by providing essential literacy services and general case management.
Introducing Guadalupe Avellaneda
Guadalupe Avellaneda graduated from Walden University with a Master’s in Social Work. Guadalupe is originally from Greenville, SC. She brings a wealth of experience in social work and case management to this role. Her previous positions include serving as a family advocate for domestic violence victims, working as a victim’s advocate for the police department, and providing counseling services for individuals facing addiction. As Guadalupe explained, “In the various roles that I’ve had, I had to do a lot of case management.” She was looking for a role where she could, as she puts it, “be a lot more hands-on with families ” and provide holistic support by “…also addressing other needs that they have outside of literacy.” She emphasizes empowering families by “helping alongside, not necessarily leading them”. Being bilingual will allow Guadalupe to connect with and support Spanish-speaking families in overcoming barriers to accessing services.
On a more personal note, Guadalupe says, “I am very family-oriented and love spending time with my family. I have an older brother who is 8 years older than me and a 3-year-old nephew that I adore. My family is always ready to celebrate and get together for any major events. My boyfriend and I are big food, coffee, and tea fanatics. We spend most of our free time trying new restaurants, planning outdoor activities, and vacations.”
Navigating Challenges and Opportunities
Guadalupe acknowledges the inherent challenges in establishing a new program like the BOLD Goal initiative, including the flexibility for “trial and error” and potential “hesitation from community members.” She is optimistic about introducing opportunities that will make a positive impact.
Guadalupe recognizes the significance of acknowledging and celebrating incremental achievements. Whenever a person accomplishes something such as making a phone call, setting up a schedule in English -that’s huge. Celebration is something that we all need, even for the simple things.”
Embracing Community Support
Despite being new to Chatham County, Guadalupe has already recognized the strong sense of community that is Chatham. “It really feels like everybody knows each other, everybody’s checking in on each other to see how they can support one another, especially during this time.” This supportive environment will be essential to the success of the BOLD Goal project.
Please join us in welcoming Guadalupe to Chatham Literacy. We look forward to the work she will do with the BOLD Goal initiative and our community.
Reach Guadalupe directly at:
Guadalupe@chathamliteracy.org
919-742-0578