HISTORY
The history of Puentes Network involves empathy, the desire to excel, and social empowerment. It begins with the story of the founder, Hermenegildo “Herman” Varela. More than 20 years ago, Herman heard about the “Promotoras de Salud” program in San Diego, California. In learning more about the program, he saw an opportunity that would help bring resources to the community. So, he accepted when he was invited to volunteer in the Woodland area.
After some time, Herman was hired to continue his work in collaboration with other agencies, and they began to organize health fairs and other community events. In speaking with one another, agency representatives and other volunteers realized that they empowering the community by providing information and resources. Their empathy and desire for a just and equitable community led to the organization of the first annual conference for promoters in the Woodland area in 2014.
In 2018, the group continued to form their collaboration calling themselves Puentes de Yolo, because that is what they wanted to be, a bridge that connected the community with resources and strengthened communication and partnerships in the community. Although Puentes began in Yolo County, after seeing the needs of neighboring communities, they extended an invitation to surrounding counties to participate in the events.
Currently, Puentes is made up of agency representatives and community members who share the desire to serve, facilitate communication, strengthen collaborations, and foster equitable communities. Within the group, each person sees themselves as someone of value, capable of contributing to the common welfare of the community. Puentes strengthens the social capital of the communities they serve by creating opportunities for all.