Being intentional as an organization about hiring representative staff is not just a commitment to diversity; it's a dedication to fostering inclusivity and equity within our workplace.

Sil Ganzó is the founder and Executive Director of ourBRIDGE for KIDS. Sil moved on her own to Charlotte, NC from Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 2003.

In 2010, Sil recognized a gap in culturally-responsive educational and socio-emotional resources for newly-arrived families. She founded ourBRIDGE, a healing-centered, non-faith-based organization that supported the acculturation, education, and well-being of thousands of immigrants and refugees since 2014, through out-of-school programs and wraparound services in the families’ first language.

Sil became one of the most sought-after voices for diversity and justice in the area, being widely recognized for her advocacy for the rights and well-being of immigrants and refugees. One of the honors of her life was being Congresswoman Alma Adams’ guest at the State of the Union Address in Washington DC in 2017. She was named Charlottean of the Year in 2014 & 2018 and was presented with the Global Leader Award by Mayor’s International Community and with the Dr. Nish Jamgotch Jr. Humanitarian Award in 2020, among many other awards and recognitions.

How long have you been with ourBRIDGE? Very first day: September 22, 2014.

What does your role entail? I design, lead, and oversee the strategic plan for the growth of ourBRIDGE. I am responsible for securing enough funds to achieve our goals every year (in 2023 is $2.3M!). Oversee the overall quality of the work we do and the safety of all, kids and staff.

Favorite LERD Value and Why? My Favorite LERD value is DIVERSITY.

Salma Villarreal is a first generation Mexican American raised in Charlotte, NC. She is the Director of Leadership Development and Student Wellbeing at ourBRIDGE.

Salma began her work in the Charlotte community through advocacy for detained migrants, working in Latinx civic engagement, and grassroots organizing. She has always felt a deep connection to community and believes that in community is where you will find true healing, and joy. She found her way to ourBRIDGE in 2018 and has worked in several different capacities in the organization beginning her time as a Classroom Facilitator and working on several initiatives.

In her current role she is responsible for ensuring our programs are aligned with ourBRIDGE’s values and supporting the ongoing work of ourBRIDGE creating a welcoming, supportive, and loving environment for every child and family. Salma’s favorite LERD value is Love, as she believes love is the catalyst of all good change. Salma loves to spend her free time baking, reading, and spending time with her dog, friends, and family.

Karen Lucas Walker is a Columbia, South Carolina native with a background in nonprofit management, HR, DEI&B and mentoring. Karen’s extensive experience with both nonprofit & human resource management,strategic partnership, leadership development, coaching, mentoring, and community partnership has taught the value of civic responsibility in her personal and career life. She is an avid for education and enjoys sharing information/ resources for positive change.

Prior to Karen’s position as Director of People and Culture, with OurBRIDGE, she has also worked in the non-profit sector providing impactful mentoring, HR process development and DEI & Belonging initiatives in Charlotte, North Carolina from November 2001 as a Founder/President of YeaGOD Inc .and as a HR Manager with Mental Health America of Central Carolinas until October 2022.

Karen holds a B.A in Liberal Studies with a minor in Sociology from Belmont Abbey College in Belmont, NC and an associate in business degree from Midlands Technical College in Columbia, SC. Karen also earned a professional in Nonprofit Management from Duke University and Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certifications.

Karen enjoys spending time with family and friends, mentoring and any opportunity for a beach get away.

Our Finance Director, Kim Rudolph, has been in Charlotte for 18 years and happily transplanted from her hometown of Tampa, Florida. Kim is happiest when she is outdoors with her family in the mountains or at the beach. She is also a passionate animal lover. Kim values diversity and loves getting to know people from different cultures and areas of the globe.

As a CPA, she worked as a corporate accountant for 13 years and has worked for Charlotte non-profits since 2013. In 2016, Kim joined ourBRIDGE. As Finance Director, she oversees accounting and handles accounts payable, payroll processing, financial reporting, grant compliance and budgeting. She also works closely with the development team to analyze and respond to fundraising opportunities.

I grew up in Charlotte, NC and graduated from Elon University. I have enjoyed working in the nonprofit sector and making a positive impact on individuals and families in our community. I started in January 2023 and I am very excited to be a part of ourBRIDGE as the Staff Accountant assisting with bookkeeping and grant reporting. My favorite LERD value is education as learning by listening, being curious, and bringing an open mind can create amazing outcomes.

Having a daughter reminds me daily the impact that love and guidance has on our children. I have a great appreciation for the impact ourBRIDGE is making daily for children in our community and I am honored to be a part of all the great work.

Outside of work, I enjoy visiting our community parks and traveling with my husband and daughter. We enjoy going to the beach and exploring new places.

Hello! I’m Duong, a dynamic individual born in the vibrant city of Manila, Philippines, with a rich cultural background that combines Filipino and Vietnamese heritage. My journey has taken me from the bustling streets of Manila to the sunny shores of Florida, where I have grown and thrived.

I am a proud graduate of the University of Florida, having earned my degree in Advertising in May 2023. My time at UF was a transformative experience, shaping me into the multifaceted individual I am today.

One of my greatest passions is dancing, particularly in the realms of hip-hop and R&B. Dance is my way of expressing myself, and I find tremendous joy in the rhythm and movement of the art form. I’ve had the privilege of leading a remarkable dance team known as The Ace Company, leaving behind a legacy that continues to thrive at UF. Our shared love for dance has not only brought us together but also created lasting memories that define our time at the university.

Beyond the dance floor, I’m a fitness enthusiast who enjoys hitting the gym regularly and embarking on hiking adventures to soak in the beauty of nature and picturesque scenery. There’s something refreshing about being amidst the great outdoors, and I relish every opportunity to explore new trails and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.

Another dimension of my interests lies in the realm of video games, and I’ve built a gaming haven on my PC. The digital realm offers a unique avenue for relaxation and mental stimulation, allowing me to unwind and connect with friends from all corners of the globe through virtual adventures.

My professional aspirations are centered around marketing and communications. I possess a boundless enthusiasm for these fields, underpinned by an innovative mindset that constantly seeks novel solutions and creative strategies. I believe that effective communication is the cornerstone of success in any endeavor, and I’m eager to make my mark in this dynamic and ever-evolving landscape.

In everything I do, whether it’s crafting a marketing campaign, perfecting a dance routine, or conquering the challenges of a hiking trail, I approach life with passion, dedication, and a relentless commitment to growth. I am excited about the endless possibilities that lie ahead, and make a difference with ourBRIDGE for KIDS.

How long with ourBRIDGE? Started with ourBRIDGE on September 5th, 2023!

What does your role entail? As a Marketing and Communications Coordinator at ourBRIDGE for KIDS, I play a vital role in representing our organization’s voice, brand, and culture across digital platforms. My responsibilities include shaping our social media presence, managing our website, and creating a compelling digital footprint. Collaborating closely with the Executive Director and Development Assistant, I drive engagement, share our mission, and convey our goals, vision, and progress to increase awareness, followers, partnerships, and financial support.

My role contributes significantly to our BRIDGEs growth strategy and brand development, making a daily impact on our success. With a background in communications, media relations, and digital strategies, I’m proficient in Google Suite, design software, and adept at creating engaging content. My skills in editing, research, and storytelling enable me to communicate effectively and ethically.

Favorite Lerd Value and Why? Love, because I personally feel that it has the capacity to bring profound emotional fulfillment, foster compassion and empathy, and inspire acts of kindness and altruism. Love can be applied to anything and everywhere, as it creates a sense of belonging, motivates personal growth, and provides resilience during challenging times. Love stands as a powerful force for unity, for healing, and for happiness in our lives in the world we live in.

Danae was born and raised in Western Maryland on a small, family farm. Early on, she saw the value of safe spaces for exploration and creativity. In 2022, she earned a degree in English with a focus in Professional and Creative Writing from OSU.

During her college years, Danae worked as a preschool teacher and ELL tutor, witnessing the growth of children’s confidence, friendships, and humor. She also freelanced as an editor, appreciating the power of effective communication.

Danae first became involved in the nonprofit space as a Writing Intern for Franklinton Farms, a nonprofit urban farm in Columbus OH that improves access to green and beautiful spaces, as well as affordable and sustainable produce. There, she recognized the crucial role of fundraisers in advocating for nonprofit staff, ultimately securing essential resources for their continued impactful work.

After five years in Columbus, Ohio, Danae relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina, with her husband and their dog, Maple. In her free time, she enjoys writing short stories, reading (she’s always adding books to her TBR), and linocut printmaking. Danae’s passion for storytelling and art permeates her life, adding depth and creativity to every endeavor.

What does your role entail?

As the Fundraising and Development Manager, I am responsible for securing the necessary funds for ourBRIDGE’s operations and programs. I strive to use an ethical storytelling framework that clearly communicates ourBRIDGE’s values and attracts donors who profoundly align with our mission, ensuring that ourBRIDGE staff can carry out their work effectively.

Favorite Lerd Value and Why?

My favorite LERD value is RESPECT. For me, respect serves as the bedrock for all relationships and partnerships. Respect means honoring everyone’s full autonomy and recognizing each person’s distinctive perspectives, challenges and motivations.

Lisa Luth is the Senior Vice President, Business Development for Luth Research. In her current role, she leads the sales and marketing team to create value for Fortune 500 clients such as Walmart, Expedia, Ford and Gallo. Prior to Luth Research, Lisa spent 20 years as a senior leader in nonprofits including Girls on the Run and Feeding America.

A native of San Diego, Lisa received her BS in Marketing and Statistics from San Diego State University and a MBA from Vanderbilt University. She is known for her innovative approach to creating value across organizations, and her leadership in times of transition and change. Lisa is the recipient of the PepsiCo’s Presidents Award, Nonprofit of the Year in Kansas City, Feeding America Leader of the Year and a Guinness World Record for the largest pyramid built from cans, which resulted in more than 17,000 pounds of canned food donated to Harvesters Food Bank in Kansas City. She is passionate about causes that level the playing field for all humans.

Lisa enjoys traveling the world with her husband and riding horses with her son.

Cathy is a retired finance and business professional having held various finance and consulting roles during her career, primarily in financial and manufacturing industries. Prior to retiring Cathy spent 20 years at various manufacturing companies as a Controller, CFO, and Process Re-engineering Consultant. Most recently Cathy joined the financial services industry and held positions in Financial Controls, Testing and Validation, and Operational Risk. After 40 plus years of working in corporate America, she decided to retire and spend more time with family.

Since retiring, Cathy has become involved in supporting organizations who provide senior living services and those who provide assistance to refugees and immigrant children. Cathy has a real passion for the services provided by ourBRIDGE, which are so essential for children and families in need of assistance to help them thrive in their new home.

After growing up in New York and receiving her Bachelor of Science degree, Cathy moved to Greensboro, North Carolina and received her MBA from UNC-Greensboro. Cathy and her husband currently live in Charlotte, where they enjoy travelling and spending time with their three children and five grandchildren, who keep them busy with soccer games, cheerleading and other sport activities.

Matt Roden joined Atrium Health in 2009 and has served in a variety of roles including Strategic Marketing, Internal Communications, Cancer Disparities Outreach, and Community Relations. In his current role, Matt serves as the Director of Community Engagement for Mecklenburg and surrounding counties.

A native of Charlotte, NC, Matt received his BS/BA from Appalachian State University. In 2016 he completed his dual MBA/MHA master’s degrees from Pfeiffer University. His interests include Corporate Social Responsibility, Key Stakeholder management (relationship development), team building/building high performing teams, and community engagement strategy. Matt has a specific interest in supporting the Hispanic and Immigrant community and spends his time working in underserved communities across the Charlotte footprint.

In addition to serving with the Our Bridge 4 Kids, Matt is on the board of the Latin American Coalition and the City of Charlotte Community Relations Committee. Matt is also an executive committee member for the Health Equity Innovation Challenge and a recent graduate of Leadership Charlotte Class 44.

In his free time, Matt, and husband, Amadeo, enjoy renovating homes and being outside with their two fur babies. Matt and Amadeo are on the surrogacy journey and hope to expand their family in the coming years.

Before starting her Public Health and Community Development career in post-conflict and limited resource areas, Hiba Salih was a General Medical Practitioner and practiced medicine in Sudan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. She then picked up a passion for population health and started supporting Local Governments, Higher Education Institutions, Grassroots, and International Organizations. Hiba designed and operated initiatives to stabilize Internally Displaced Populations IDPs in their home countries and to resettle immigrants, refugees, and asylees in host countries. Hiba also supported strategic global partnership development for Medical Education Organizations and designed advocacy strategies and tools to advance Community Oriented Medical Education and Health Service Delivery for several international medical systems and schools. She was part of the Global Health Office at Johns Hopkins Medicine International in MD and Children’s National Hospital in DC. Hiba also has experience with a few International Media platforms, helping establish FM radio stations in the Middle East and as a news anchor and reporter for TV news channels. More recently, Hiba has been leading the implementation of initiatives addressing Social Determinants of Health SDoH needs in Charlotte, with a focus on accelerating upward mobility for low-to-middle-income communities through building financial resilience and strengthening anchor partnerships. Hiba earned her bachelor in medicine and bachelor in surgery BMBS degree from the School of Medicine at Juba University and her Master of Public Health and Tropical Diseases MPH Degree from the University of Medical Sciences and Technologies in Sudan. In her spear time, Hiba is very active in supporting new American communities, she enjoys reading, volunteering, and teaching the Arabic Language to non-Arabic speakers during her spare time.

Sasha Fain, a first-generation Latina, and graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, she also completed the Civic Leadership and CMPD leadership academies with the City of Charlotte.

As a seasoned Senior Technical Recruiter, Sasha has honed her skills across fast-paced industries, including wealth management, enterprise technology, and software as a service (SaaS). Her expansive career encompasses the many dimensions of recruitment and human resources, showcasing her proficiency in full-cycle recruiting, HR compliance management, strategic sourcing, mergers, and acquisitions and driving diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) initiatives.

Currently serving as a Senior Technical Recruiter for Wells Fargo’s Enterprise Technology division, Sasha is entrusted with comprehensive recruiting processes. Her responsibilities encompass managing strategic sourcing initiatives to cultivate diverse talent pipelines and acting as a subject matter expert for Workday. She also handles high-volume sourcing to meet the multiple hiring needs and offers valuable insights into the financial services technology talent market.

Sasha’s past experience includes a role at Moody’s, where she offered full cycle recruiting support and designed bespoke recruitment strategies for global clients across various regions. She also managed requisitions across business lines and collaborated with leaders to influence talent decisions, define strategies, and deliver innovative solutions.

At Equitable Advisors, Sasha held the position of Recruiting Operations Manager, with a focus on managing, supporting, and maintaining Equitable’ s applicant tracking system, Taleo. Her expertise in Taleo allowed her to assure data integrity and implement process improvement solutions. As a project management lead, she defined, prioritized, and planned system changes and enhancements.

Before her tenure at Equitable Advisors, Sasha was a Senior Recruiting Consultant for Enterprise Technology at Mindseeker. In this role, she guided the business on all aspects of the talent acquisition process and OFCCP compliance, devising sourcing strategies for challenging, high-demand positions.

Sasha’s career path also led her to SentryOne, where she evolved from an HR generalist to a Technical Recruiter. She led full-cycle recruitment, developed college recruitment programs, and implemented effective recruiting/sourcing strategies. In addition, Sasha managed HR department projects, including new hire onboarding, employee relations, compliance, compensation analysis, and benefit open enrollment.

Fluent in Spanish and having a broad range of technical skills, Sasha is a passionate HR professional. Her expertise and dedication have played pivotal roles in enabling companies to attract, recruit, and retain top talent. Her experience, spanning multiple sectors and regions, demonstrates her adaptability and strategic mindset. With excellent communication skills and a passion for diversity and inclusion, Sasha continues to make substantial contributions to the human resources field.

Nancy is a first generation American whose parents immigrated to the US from China. She grew up in Plano, TX where she learned all about rodeos, football, and good barbeque. In addition to encouraging her to embrace her new country, Nancy’s parents were also very focused on maintaining her Chinese heritage and cultural roots. Her love of people, countries, and appreciation for cultural differences have greatly shaped who Nancy is. She feels grateful and privileged to be part of Our Bridge for Kids in her Treasurer role on the organization’s board.

For her day job, Nancy is a tax CPA with RSM, an international public accounting firm. She helps businesses address their tax needs and questions. Outside of work, she spends time with her husband and son at the dinner table, on baseball fields, and on greenway trails. If there’s any time left over after that, Nancy likes to read and will occasionally work on her yoga practice.

Pacino is a graduate of Tecnológico de Monterrey with a degree in Marketing. He later pursued a master’s degree in advertising at UT Austin (Hook ’em Horns!). Currently, he is enrolled in a Master’s in Anthropology program at UNCC.

He serves on the Board of the Carolina Raptors Center and previously dedicated over a decade to the Levine Museum of the New South. Pacino is also a founding member of the Hispanic Contractors Association of the Carolinas and recently joined the boards of the LACCC and ourBRIDGE for Kids.

Pacino commenced his professional journey as a Coca-Cola salesman in Mexico. During his time at Coca-Cola, he successfully launched a kids’ drink and introduced the new line of flavored Topo Chico. He then transitioned to Reebok Mexico, where he managed the first sales team responsible for these initiatives. At Reebok, he played a pivotal role in the launch of Reebok “Pumps” in the Mexican market.

Following graduate school, Pacino relocated to Dallas, TX, to work with DDB on the American Airlines account. Later, he joined Promociones PanaVista, where he spearheaded the field-marketing efforts for Cadbury-Schweppes’ Clamato brand and introduced Tortillas Guerrero in the Southeast for Grupo MASECA.

Pacino moved to Charlotte to help lead the launch of Lowe’s multicultural initiative through the agency side. This initiative encompassed various segments, including Hispanic, African American, and Asian markets. The project involved a comprehensive Multicultural initiative, encompassing press, radio, TV, events, sponsorships, brand integrations, grassroots activations, and even NASCAR. During this period, he met his future partners during a sales pitch. In 2007, he joined them, renaming the company AC&M Group, which earned recognition as an Ad Age Top 50 Hispanic Agency in 2018 and 2019.

While he holds his Tejano roots close to his heart, Mancillas has called Charlotte home for over 18 years, residing there with his wife and daughter. His relentless pursuit of the perfect tortilla remains a passion.