Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
September 15th - October 15th
This Hispanic Heritage Month, YWCA is uplifting Hispanic and Latina leaders whose impact spans every area of our lives. Join us throughout the month as we celebrate these trailblazers and their enduring legacies.
We’re also excited to invite you to join us at the Festival Hispano Georgetown 2025 on Sunday, September 21, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in Downtown Georgetown Delaware on North Race Street. Stop by our booth to say hellow to our amazing, SARC Aftercare Community Health Coordinator, Salena Carrillo, who will be there sharing resources and free SARC swag.
Charito Calvachi-Mateyko
Charito Calvachi-Mateyko is an international Restorative Justice consultant and lawyer turned peacemaker. Through her work as a radio show host, author, storyteller, and educator, she shares knowledge and uplifts voices, bringing a multifaceted approach to social healing.
She has served as a keynote speaker and trainer across Latin America, Africa, and the United States, using her deep commitment to justice and her gift for connection to mend wounds of crime, strengthen communities, and foster cultural understanding. Charito is also the founder of VOTAMOS–We Vote!, a movement that empowers Latinx communities to engage in civic life and raise their collective voice.
Julissa Coriano
Julissa Coriano, a Puerto Rico native, is a clinical social worker, therapist, and a recent 2024 inductee to the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame. Alongside her son Noah, she co-founded Orgullo Delaware and is also a co-founder of the Delaware Sexuality & Gender Collective.
Rossana Arteaga-Lopenza
Rossana Arteaga-Lopenza is the founder and president of Casa de Venezuela Delaware, a nonprofit that fosters cultural and professional development through Venezuelan heritage while advocating for human rights.
In addition to her leadership there, Rossana serves on the Board of Directors for LYTE Scholars, supporting underrepresented youth through mentorship, academic rigor, and leadership development. She is also a member of the Delaware Hispanic Commission.
Arlette Beato-Tineo
Arlette Beato-Tineo, MPA serves as the Aftercare Community Health Coordinator – Hispanic Services at YWCA Delaware’s Sexual Assault Response Center (SARC) in New Castle County.
Since joining SARC in 2024, Arlette has been a powerful voice for survivors, expanding support for Delaware’s Spanish-speaking communities. With her bilingual skills and deep passion for service, she helps ensure every client feels seen, heard, and supported.
Arlette brings experience from YWCA Union County and the Departments of Health and Human Services in East Orange and Hudson County. She holds a master’s in public administration—but more importantly, she carries a lifelong commitment to lifting up underserved communities.
In her own words:
“I am very proud and thankful for SARC because it has allowed me to accomplish my childhood dream of helping underserved communities. One of my greatest achievements has been being given the platform to maintain the wellness and health of our community through outreach and education—attending events across Delaware to share resources with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.”
Gaby Pacheco
Gaby Pacheco is an immigration activist who has dedicated her life to fighting for immigrant rights and access to education, inspiring countless young people to stand up for justice. Her leadership has helped raise awareness about the importance of humane immigration policies.
Gabriela Mistral
Gabriela Mistral, Chilean poet and Nobel laureate, used her literary talent to advocate for education, social justice, and human rights, inspiring generations of Latin American writers and thinkers. Her work champions compassion and cultural identity.
Lila Downs
Lila Downs, known for her powerful voice and cultural storytelling, uses her music to honor indigenous roots and shed light on social issues affecting Latin America. She empowers communities through her artistry and advocacy.
Maria Elena Salinas
Maria Elena Salinas is a trailblazing journalist who has used her platform to advocate for Hispanic communities and promote truthful, impactful journalism. Her work has helped bridge cultural gaps and raise awareness of important social issues.
Mayra Alvarez
Mayra Alvarez is a public health leader dedicated to advancing health equity and improving access to quality healthcare for underserved populations. Her advocacy has helped shape policies that promote healthier communities.
Dr. Mireya Mayor
Dr. Mireya Mayor, a distinguished primatologist and conservationist, inspires women in STEM by demonstrating leadership in wildlife research and environmental advocacy. Her work highlights the importance of conservation and scientific inquiry.