Valeria Gonzalez
Before joining FRN, I served as grant-maker, program director and senior consultant for organizations such as the Kellogg Foundation and the Global Fund for Women. When my son got sick, our FRN navigators were a light in the dark. As a Navigator, I am studying the intricate system to support children with disabilities and learning how to better serve families.
Bio: I am the mother to a cheerful 6-year-old girl who enjoys the outdoors. My journey with FRN began as a client, when my daughter was turning 3 and about to start pre-school. I found great value in the help I received from my navigator, and I knew that one day I wanted to pay it forward and help other families too. On my free time I enjoy long hikes with a nice view, caring for my plants, or crafting with my Cricut.
My son Santi, who is 10 years old, has autism. I attended an FRN support group and from day one I felt welcomed, understood, and started to know about resources for my son. My goal is to help families by connecting them with the system to make their journey a little easier.
I love working for an organization that does amazing things for the community. I found out about FRN through my mom because FRN helped her in many ways. I love what we do and am so happy to be a part of this team. In my free time, I enjoy fitness and watching movies.
I joined FRN after being a parent leader. The other staff tease me and say that they always know when I am working because they smell coffee and popcorn – but I like coffee and popcorn.
I love the work I do for families! When not working, I spend time with my family. I love taking pictures, and taught everyone at FRN how to take good selfies.
I have been with FRN more than 10 years now, and I have 3 children. When not busy helping families, I like playing practical jokes – but only on my co-workers.
I am a program manager but I have a lot of extra jobs at FRN – as staff ask me for help with their computer or phone. In my spare time, I like spending time with my family, doing crafts and baking.
I love having a job where I can help my community. There are so few places that people who speak Mam can get the help and support that they need. I am really happy to help FRN be one of them.
I have been working with the Latinix community since 2002, and I am still so excited to come to work every day. Personally, I love to shop, especially for beautiful shoes.
Nice to meet you!
