Diverse Voices: Honoring Joanna's Hispanic Heritage

True North’s Joanna G. on her Chico State graduation day.

For Spanish-speakers, the language barrier can be isolating—especially when they are experiencing homelessness and in need of critical, life-saving services.

Joanna G., who is a case manager at True North Housing Alliance’s Aurora North home for families, can empathize. Her parents immigrated to the United States from Mexico.

One of the critical skills she brings from her cultural background is the fact that she is bilingual. In her role at True North, she’s providing a critical resource for Spanish families who need help navigating out of homelessness and into safe, stable housing.

“I can communicate with people even though they may not be able to communicate with anybody else. They are just relieved they don’t have to worry about how to communicate—something that should be so easy is so hard. It can be very intimidating otherwise.”

This month is one that holds a special significance for Joanna: September 15th through October 15th is Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month. Her cultural background has shaped her professional life as well as her personal life, and at the core of it all is a deep value of close family ties, spirituality, and gratitude.

Joanna has five siblings and often lived with extended family members growing up. She had a Quinceañera when she turned 15, and wore a big, beautiful red dress at a party featuring rose decorations.

Her family also celebrates Día de Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, every year. They honor the spirits of their loved ones who have passed away by taking the time to appreciate them and creating a display with their photos, favorite foods and drinks, and trinkets representing things that they loved.

On December 12th, her family also celebrates Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe, or Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe, a Catholic celebration and national Mexican holiday. Her hometown neighborhood gathers and walks to the church to hold mass. Joanna braids her hair and dresses in a long, colorful skirt and white top alongside other community members, and her little brothers draw on moustaches and wear hats and huaraches sandals. The celebration also includes spirited dances and tribal rituals.

“I just feel really connected to my roots. It’s not just about the traditions, it’s about how everyone gathers together—there are reasons why people do certain things. You pray for something or someone, and in return, you do that walk every year showing your gratitude and celebrating the legacy that lives on of the Virgen Mary.”

Joanna is also part of a unique paid internship program at True North while she earns her master’s in social work. She has felt compelled to complete her studies while working here because of the strong relationships she’s formed with fellow staff members and the mentorship she’s received from True North Executive Director, Taylor Storey, who has set a great example for her by also having obtained her master’s in social work. She is excited to graduate from the university this spring.

“Mental health is often something we don’t talk about,” she said. “I like hearing about other people and their stories. I am passionate about helping people who experience mental illness, showing them that there are others who understand what they are going through and can help them find hope and the care that they need!”

This feature is part of “Diverse Voices: Celebrating the Vibrant Roots of Team True North.”