Centro Unido Latino Americano hires three new summer interns
Organization strengthens commitment to young leadership
Centro Unido Latino Americano has three new summer interns (from left) Sheyla Rodriguez Macario, Yasuri Yamilet Ibarra and Liam Chase.
Centro Unido Latino Americano announced the addition of three new summer interns.
Centro Unido said the interns reflect the organization's long term vision of creating meaningful opportunities for young people to grow, lead and serve their communities, according to a news release from Centro Unido.
"As executive director, I have always envisioned Centro Unido as an organization that intentionally creates space for young leaders," Director Margarita Yanes said. "We have already started building that vision not only through our summer internship opportunities, but also by hiring young professionals like Mariangel Alvarado and Jose Rico, who, at under 21 years old, are already in leadership positions and making a real impact within our community."
The three new interns will each support different areas of the organization, including community health initiatives, cultural and arts programming, and youth leadership development. Through hands-on experience, mentorship and direct community engagement, interns will gain a deeper understanding of nonprofit work rooted in service, cultural responsiveness and community connection, according to the news release.
"Our goal is not only to provide professional experience but to help young people truly understand the impact and responsibility that comes with community work," Yanes said. "We are incredibly proud that many former interns continue working in nonprofit and community-centered spaces long after their internship ends. In one way or another, they often remain connected to this work because they have experienced firsthand the importance of serving and uplifting the community."
Centro Unido Latino Americano remains committed to building pathways for future generations while continuing to strengthen culturally responsive services, leadership opportunities, and community support systems across western North Carolina.
As Centro Unido continues expanding pathways for young leaders, the organization also recognizes the sponsors who have made this year's internship program possible.
"As someone who began my own professional journey as an intern, I understand the value of hands-on experience and the lessons that emerge when real-world challenges meet classroom knowledge," Jose Rico, human resources manager at Centro Unido Latino Americano, said. "Interns bring fresh perspectives, new ideas, and an energy that strengthens our work and helps our organization grow. Through the support of our sponsors, Health Careers Connection (HCC) and the Nonprofit Internship Program (NPIP), we are able to welcome young leaders whose dedication and passion enrich our mission. Each intern leaves a meaningful impact on our community, and we are deeply grateful for the sponsorship that makes these opportunities possible."
Meet the interns below.
Yasuri Yamilet Ibarra
â– East Carolina University
„■Dual major in biology and clinical laboratory science 2029 "This internship with Centro Unido Latino Americano through Health Career Connection is an amazing opportunity for me to gain valuable experience not only in a professional office environment, but also within the community that CULA works so hard to support. I am excited for a summer filled with learning, leadership, community involvement, and personal growth. I look forward to developing new skills, building meaningful connections, and making a positive impact while serving others."
Liam Chase
„■Appalachian State University
„ ■Major in psychology 2027 "During my time as an intern at Centro Unido, I hope to deepen my understanding of the situations and challenges faced by the members of the community we support, while also continuing to strengthen my Spanish-speaking skills. This opportunity will give me valuable firsthand experience working with therapy clients in both English and Spanish, allowing me to develop stronger communication and interpersonal skills in a professional setting. I also look forward to learning how to approach different client situations with empathy, cultural awareness, and professionalism as I continue growing in the field."
Sheyla Rodriguez Macario
■„ Western Carolina University „
■Dual major in integrated health science and Spanish 2027 „
"Through this internship, I want to be able to make a meaningful impact through communication advocacy and community engagement while continuing to grow both personally and professionally. I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to serve at Centro Unido, where I can contribute to organizations that support and strengthen our community. I look forward to gaining valuable experience, expanding my skills, building meaningful connections, and to be able to learn from those around me. Mostly to be able to give back to my community."
