SE2’s newest Principal, Alvina Vasquez brings a wealth of experience and passion for community outreach. She reflects on her journey of professional growth, shares advice on how to make a meaningful impact in today’s political climate, and offers insights on building a strong, supportive network. Whether you’re looking to engage with your community or elevate your career, Alvina’s perspective offers real, actionable advice to help you succeed.
Q: Since joining SE2, what ways have you felt challenged/grown in?
A: I didn’t invent community outreach, but I’ve dedicated my career to professionalizing it. This approach is new to many, and one of the biggest opportunities I’ve encountered is inspiring others to see its significance. It’s immensely rewarding to communicate the importance of building strong relationships and to demonstrate how our efforts create positive, lasting impacts in our communities.
Q: In our current political climate, what advice do you have for folks to get involved and make a difference, outside of just voting? How can people get together? Especially post-election?
A: The easiest way to get started in working in and advancing political messages is meeting people where they are at, listening to their pain points and finding common ground. Hosting themed gatherings to bring awareness to issues that matter is a great way to help. Also not just voting but telling people that you are voting. Social pressure is a great tool to make others make time to vote. Colorado has the safest and most accessible voting process in the country, help a friend out on how to get registered and how to vote.
Q: What’s your advice for building up your network and connections?
A: My advice for building a network is to meet in person, make yourself valuable to others by asking them how you can help them succeed, and do it if it’s within your skill set. We are all trying our best to do our best work, and if you can help others feel good about themselves and the work that they do, your network will grow, and you will also be trusted and sought out.
