“At first, I joined CASA because it is an organization that helps the immigrant community, but belonging has changed my perspective … for me CASA is a family where we have the capacity to express how we feel about the difficulties that can happen to the community…and to make a plan to do something about it.” CASA member
Who we are
We are a group of passionate, community-conscious people working to organize, advocate for, and expand opportunities for Latino and immigrant people in the state of Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. We do this by providing employment placement; workforce development and training; health education; citizenship and legal services; and financial, language, and literacy training to Latino and immigrant communities throughout the state. Since our humble beginnings in 1985 assisting Central American refugees fleeing wars and civil strife at home, we have worked tirelessly to bring immigrant communities in Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania out of the shadows and into greater power, dignity, and legitimacy.
Our Mission
To create a more just society by building power and improving the quality of life in working class and immigrant communities.
Our Vision
We envision a future where we stand in our own power, our families live free from discrimination and fear, and our diverse communities thrive as we work with our partners to achieve full human rights for all.
Our Values
SOLIDARITY
We believe that working in solidarity strengthens us in the struggle
DIVERSITY
We believe we are stronger when we enhance, recognize and celebrate our diversity.
SOCIAL JUSTICE
We believe in social justice and our ability to change our own lives.
POWERFUL VOICE
We believe in having a powerful voice in the decisions that affect our lives.
EXCELLENCE
We believe we achieve excellence when we collaborate, innovate, evaluate, and take pride in our work.
RACIAL EQUITY
We believe in demonstrating and fighting for racial equity.
Our Campaigns
- See our latest campaigns. -
Staff
- See our staff. -
Executive Direction
Department of Finance & Administration
Melissa Guzman – Chief of Finance and Operations
Robin K. Erwin, MBA – Director of HR & Operations
Victor Otero – Senior Manager of Accounting
Jose Garcia – IT Manager
Jimmy Villarroel – IT Systems Manager
Silvia Navas – Site Manager
Marco Mamani — IT Specialist
Maria Villanueva Diaz – HR Administrative Assistant
Joe Varela – Executive HR Assistant
Department of Political Action and Communications
Kim Propeack – Chief of Politics and Communications
Alonzo Washington – CASA in Action Executive Director and CASA Chief of Federal Relations
Jossie Flor Sapunar – Communications Director
William Renderos – Civic Engagement and Electoral Data Manager
Manny Zabala – Digital Mobilization Manager
Cathryn A. Paul – Research & Policy Analyst
Jenna DeFosse – Campaign & Communications Specialist
Marvin Hernandez – Elections Data Specialist
Department of Health and Human Services
George Escobar – Chief of Programs and Services
Dontá Council, PhD – Director of Data and Evaluation
Pablo Blank – Director of Immigrant Integration
Nicholas Katz, Esq. – Senior Manager Legal Program
Michelle LaRue, MD – Senior Manager Health and Social Services
Leidi Garcia, Manager of Health Navigation and Social Services