About us
Since El Puente’s inception in 2009, we have aimed to strengthen our community by offering services that aid our families and assist them as they reach out to benefit others in their neighborhood.
Mission
To serve as a bridge and connection point for Latino students and family members to academic success, well-being, and increased integration into the Dayton community.
Vision
Enrichment of the economic and community vitality of the Greater Dayton area through the attraction, full participation, and contributions of the Latino Community.
Board of Trustees
Tony Ortiz
President
Ryan Rushing
Treasurer
Kristofer Poland
Secretary
Rosa Ashworth
Mary Alice Ordonez
Karla Knox
John Haught
Julio Mateo
Manuel Lopez
Alejandra Espino
Maria Goeser
Our Funders
Collaborations and Community Partners
Programs
Get Involved
Service Learning Opportunities
We provide a teaching and learning opportunity to volunteers about the Latino community in Dayton. In the process, volunteers link personal and social development as well as cultural awareness of the individuals and community that they serve.
University/College Federal Work Study Program
We offer employment opportunities to undergraduate students to earn money to help pay education expenses, gain invaluable work experience in their field of study, and connect with community partners for future employment.
Our Team
Andrea Cregier
Program Director
Andrea Cregier is the Program Director and Parent/Community Liaison of El Puente. Her work is focused on increasing access to quality services to support immigrant and latino families and create a strong foundation for their integration into the Dayton community. With bachelor’s degrees in Criminology and Political Science, Andrea is able to ensure the academic success and well-being of students and their families. Andrea’s drive to create a bridge to equal opportunities for everyone is evident through her ongoing work and collaboration with the students, families, tutors, community partners, and members of the Greater Dayton community.
Imelda Ayala
Parent Advocate
Imelda works directly with the parents of our students, incorporating entire families into the fold. She has truly become an indispensable part of El Puente and the community that surrounds us. Imelda is known for her positive and dynamic personality and has been working incredibly hard within the Latino community for over eleven years, teaching Sunday school, teaching leadership classes to Latino teenagers, and teaching the parents of these children. Both children and adults quickly connect to her warm presence, and they rise to the high standards that she sets. Imelda sets an example of service and selflessness that all around her aspire to equal.
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