Effective and culturally relevant program development can be challenging when resources are limited. This workshop will share Casa de Esperanza’s best practices to provide culturally relevant support and services to Latin@s survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and trafficking. We will take a deeper dive into Casa de Esperanza’s history and the development of the Latina Advocacy Framework. We will also share ‘Next Steps’ that those working with Latin@ survivors can take back to their organizational leaders to adopt meaningful practices into your workplace and communities.
Rosario de la Torre, Co-Director of Family Advocacy and Community Engagement, Casa de Esperanza
Rosario de la Torre – Family Advocacy and Community Engagement Initiatives Co-Director for Casa de Esperanza, an organization whose mission is to mobilize Latin@s and Latino communities to end domestic violence. Rosario has been working at Casa de Esperanza for fifteen years. Rosario is an experienced advocate in the areas of domestic violence, sexual assault, and victimization. A responsive and accomplished professional, she has demonstrated leadership and organizational skills. Her success in her current position is, in part, a testimony to her communications skills—both among her staff and across the organization. She has vast training, advocacy, court advocacy, and crisis line management experience; she is a highly respected and experienced advocate.
Teresa Burns, Refugio Manager, Casa de Esperanza
Teresa Burns is the Refugio Manager at Casa de Esperanza and her day-to-day work is focused on ensuring the shelter provides holistic and culturally-specific support, managing Minnesota’s only 24-hour bilingual crisis line, overseeing staff training, and grant reporting. She serves as a member of the Coordinated Entry for Families Leadership Committee in Hennepin County, and through her role established a domestic violence workgroup bringing together DV providers and homeless resources. In her previous position as an advocate, she worked in partnerships with police departments, consulates, prosecutors, and the courts. Teresa is trained to respond in the areas of domestic violence, human trafficking, and felony-level assaults. Teresa was born and raised in Minnesota. As an ally, she sees her work as being a ‘puente’ or bridge between cultures, and enhancing understanding and appreciation of all communities.
