Team

Alexandra Sossa

Originally from Colombia, South America, Alexandra Sossa has dedicated more than 40 years of experience to performing community outreach and education for very low-wage workers. Her journey with FLAP began in 2001 as a volunteer, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to the organization’s mission. Overtime, her dedication led to promotions, from a volunteer, community navigator, and outreach worker to various roles, including Bilingual Director of Operations and Outreach in 2009, Bilingual Executive Director in 2011, culminating in her pivotal role as Bilingual Chief Executive Officer in 2024.

Alexandra has a long history of public service dating back to her work with coffee plantation workers in her native Country, where she also worked for nearly a decade with the Attorney General’s Office and has educated low-wage workers on their rights in the United States, Spain, and Colombia. While in Spain, Alexandra helped citizens of Mexico navigate through the Spanish legal system via the Mexican Embassy. Ms. Sossa’s commitment isn’t just professional, it’s personal! Her father, an attorney, fought valiantly for low-wage workers and specifically for farmworkers’ rights. His memory lives on through Alexandra’s tireless work. Her mother, who is a retired Magistrate of the Court in Colombia and also, along with her whole family, are great supporters of low-wage workers. Each combined legacy inspires Alexandra’s firm dedication to her craft and commitment to improving the working conditions and opportunities for low-wage workers across Illinois and the USA. She is a native Spanish speaker and is fluent in English.

Ms. Sossa graduated from the University of Medellin School of Law, Colombia and is certificated as a bilingual Mediator at the Center for Conflict Resolution in Chicago, Illinois (2008). She is an alumnus of the Center for Leadership Innovation who in collaboration with its Latine Co-training partner Latino Policy Forum gave her a certification from the Chicago-Illinois Latino Nonprofit Leadership Academy (2009-2010) and holds a Non-Profit Management certification from the University of Illinois at Chicago (2010-2011). Alexandra attended several conflict resolution trainings at the Association for Conflict Resolution Chicago-Area Chapter, including Conflict Resolution in our Schools (2008). In 2010 The Language Certification Institute recognized her Proficiency in the Spanish Language for Business. In 2011, she also attended DePaul University Values-Centered Leadership offered by the School of Public Service and Vincent on Leadership: The Hay Project.

In 2011 the Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago-LAF- (today Legal Aid Chicago) awarded her a certificate of appreciation in recognition of her volunteer efforts and commitment to LAC’s clients. In 2012, Alexandra was one of the Nueva Latina Estrella Award Community Services four finalists at the 8^th annual Global Latino Fest during the signature Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrating the best of Chicago’s Latino Culture. The Award recognizes emerging Leaders who embrace diversity, integrity, and creativity as they achieve success. In March of 2019, Alexandra received the “Foundation Award” from the Illinois Human Rights Commission -IHRC-, honoring her commitment in promoting and cultivating women’s rights, freedom, and achievement in Illinois. In 2020 Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health publicly recognized her as Illinois COVID-19 Ambassadors for her efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by promoting and sharing critical information and resources thereby keeping communications across Illinois safe during these challenging times. 

In early September 2021, FLAP awarded Ms. Sossa its highest honor, the “Beckman Farmworker Advocate of the Year”, for her more than two decades of leadership at FLAP, additional recognitions include “Champion of Change Award” from the Latino Policy Forum, Illinois Association of Agencies and Community Organizations for Migrant Advocacy (IACOMA, 2016), “Illinois Migrant Education Program Service Award” presented in 2021 for more than 20 years of dedicated service to migratory children, youth, and families, the “Pioneer Community Advocate” presented from Mano a Mano Family Resource Services, in 2023, in recognition of her exceptional dedication, leadership and unwavering commitment to the immigrant community, and recognition from The Rotary Club of McHenry County in Illinois for serving as their guest speaker on May 23, 2019.

Alexandra participated in the AMPT x Bulls x Pepsi Non-profit Leaders Program in 2023 and in the Allstate Foundation Executive Leadership Program Class 2024 in partnership with Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, she is the winner of the 2024 “Woman of Impact Award” due to her direct role in the growth of FLAP, commitment to diversity and on-going support and strategies that impact the career advancement for Latine immigrant workers. In 2024 The SIMPLE GOOD recognized Alexandra as an official Simple Good Ambassador deeming her as an ambassador who has an ability and accountability to continue to spread positivity around the world! She presently sits on the Steering Committee of the Chicago Region Food System Fund , which responds to hunger and business disruption by bolstering the region’s communities and local food system. She served on the Board of Directors of the Peggy Browning Fund from 2024 to 2025 and also on the inaugural Metro Chicago Good Food Purchasing Initiative (GFPI) Steering Council and the Wasted Food Action Alliance-WFAA. Alexandra also received a Certificate of achievement for her wonderful presentation on “Discriminación en el lugar de Trabajo” organized by Charla de Mujeres y Amigos in 2024 in Aurora, Kane County in Illinois. She is the winner of the “2025 Women of Power Award” giving by Quad County Urban League at the Women’s Empowerment Summit, “In recognition for her accomplishments and leadership in Forging New Roles and Inspiration for Women, Girls and Future Generations”. Alexandra was awarded the 2025 Liberty Bell Award by The Chicago Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Section in recognition of her service rendered as a member of the legal community which strengthens the effectiveness of the American system of freedom under the Law.”

Alexandra was a guest speaker at AMPT: Advancing Nonprofits’ AMPT Connect. She and fellow leaders discussed how to choose to center humanity, lean into joy, and continue moving forward during these uncertain times.

As part of the Chicago Region Food System Fund, she joined the Northwestern University’s Food Sustainability Committee on their panel on food justice and discussed the fund’s mission to build food resilience in the local food system through reform and investment that promotes leadership and ownership. She also highlighted how ongoing funding rounds reflect the continued support needed in the fight for food justice.

In Summer 2025, Alexandra was a panelist at the Labor Rights week organized by the Mexican Consulate in Chicago.

Alexandra was selected as a member for the Forefront 2025 Racial Equity Cohort that is building a sustainable statewide cross-sector partnership to reimagine how regional partners can engage with one another to collectively advance racial equity and she facilitated a Roundtable in Springfield on Fall, 2025. She also attended the “3rd Nyéléni Global Forum for Food Sovereignty” held in Sri Lanka in September, 2025. She was not only part of the North America Delegation (Canada, Sovereign Territories and USA), but also represented FLAP, one of the only 4 organizations in the world invited to speak in front of more than 700 food community leaders about Food Sovereignty, Food Chain Supply’s Workers Rights and Force Migration. Alexandra’s goal with the presentation was demanding a global food system change where trying food workers with dignity and the Food Supply Chain Workers’ Rights are included.

In Fall 2025, Alexandra completed the Nonprofit Leadership Excellence provided by the Center for Nonprofit Management team at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and moderated the panel “Protecting Immigrant Food Supply Chain Workers Under Attack” at the HEAL’s 5th Annual Member Summit in Atlanta, GA. 

Alexandra is an extraordinary force in the non-profit world, and her impact is felt on deeply personal level. She doesn’t merely engage with FLAP from the administrative standpoint; instead, she dives into the trenches where she works directly with everyone involved. She has played an instrumental role in the success of the non-profit FLAP’s continued growth. Throughout her more than 24 years of service with FLAP, she has educated low-wage immigrants about their work rights in the United States, developed working relationships with more than 550 organizations, including business, Consulates, churches, farms, foundations, law firms, other non-profit organizations and workers centers, in Illinois, the USA and worldwide, focusing on preventing forced migration, and has supported attorneys providing legal assistance to a countless number of very low-wage immigrants, migrant and seasonal workers in the Illinois area. Her passion for addressing the needs of these workers, fighting human labor/sex trafficking, wage theft and helping families stay together in the event of deportation by facilitating the process of getting dual citizenship for their children is immediately apparent when she speaks! She is a strident advocate for the very low-wage population.

Alexandra has written for newspaper in Illinois, Spain, and Colombia, she has been interviewed by the media and invited to speak at Rotary Clubs, events, forums and panels, amplifying the voices of low-wage immigrant workers. Her commitment goes beyond theory. She also frequently recalls helping young women escape sexual abuse. Under Alexandra’s leadership, FLAP has made a remarkable impact on the Illinois low-wage community.  $6,683,035 in financial assistance has been distributed to very low-wage individuals benefiting approximately 43,886 family members in the food supply chain; These distributions paid for families’ bills, groceries, housing, and utilities ensuring they could stay in their homes and keep their families fed. FLAP distributed technology and educational supplies, so low-wage Latine immigrant children could participate effectively in distance learning. All over Alexandra has brought to the organization more than $20 Million and supported in the more than 12 million dollars that has been giving back in wages and damages to low-wage workers.

Alvar Ayala

Bilingual Chief Counsel

Alvar Ayala is a dedicated bilingual attorney with more than 17 years of experience in employment law. He holds a Juris Doctor and has built his career advancing the rights of immigrant and low-wage workers across Illinois. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Alvar uses his legal expertise and cultural understanding to advocate for equity, justice, and dignity in the workplace.

Before joining the Farmworker and Landscaper Advocacy Project (FLAP), Alvar spent years representing workers in cases involving wage theft, discrimination, workplace retaliation, and unfair labor practices. He has a proven record of not only litigating complex employment cases but also training and mentoring younger attorneys, community advocates, and students interested in labor justice. His work is grounded in the belief that every worker deserves to be treated fairly and with respect, regardless of immigration status.

Alvar’s dedication stems from his personal connection to immigrant communities and his awareness of the systemic barriers they face in accessing justice. He has collaborated with consulates, nonprofit organizations, and labor coalitions to ensure immigrant voices are heard in the legal system. Over the years, his advocacy has helped workers recover unpaid wages, secure safer workplaces, and stand up to exploitation.

As FLAP’s Bilingual Chief Counsel, Alvar Ayala leads the organization’s legal strategies to protect and empower low-wage immigrant, migrant, and seasonal workers throughout Illinois. He oversees litigation, provides direct representation, and ensures FLAP’s legal services remain accessible, free of charge, and culturally responsive. Working closely with the outreach and advocacy teams, Alvar bridges legal expertise with community education, ensuring workers not only have access to justice but also the tools to defend their rights.

Claudia Oliveros

Claudia was born into a family deeply rooted in DeKalb, Illinois, where her parents settled in 1974. Growing up, her mother worked at Foods production factory and her father at factories, both making significant contributions to their community. Witnessing their entrepreneurial spirit, Claudia saw them start a small business that became a hub for many Latine families, fostering strong community ties.

After dedicating 17 years to healthcare at the local hospital, Claudia pursued becoming one of the 250 individuals in Illinois to hold the National Certified Healthcare Interpreter credential. This certification allows her to effectively bridge any language barriers and communicate important information to Spanish speakers, ensuring they receive the care and support they need.

One of Claudia’s most fulfilling experiences has been traveling multiple times to Guatemala to volunteer with Gracia’s G.E.T (Gracia Entrepreneur Training) Program. This initiative focuses on empowering young women by equipping them with the tools and resources needed for economic independence.

Her commitment to community service led her to serve on the board of directors for Conexion Comunidad in DeKalb. Volunteering extensively for various non-profit organizations and driven by her passion for giving back, Claudia has transitioned into a different career path.

Claudia’s children were raised in DeKalb and have chosen to remain part of the vibrant community. Throughout her career and volunteer work, Claudia’s commitment to serving her community, both locally and globally, remains steadfast as she continues to contribute to the well-being and prosperity of DeKalb and beyond.

Claudia Speaks English and Spanish.

Esther E. Contreras

Esther E. Contreras is a first-generation Latina from Aurora, Illinois who currently lives in McHenry County, Illinois. Esther is a graduate of McHenry County College, where she received her Associates in Science. She continues to pursue her education at Aurora University working towards her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She was raised by two hard working immigrant parents who influenced the importance of keeping her origins by speaking Spanish, therefore she is bilingual and fluent in both English and Spanish.

Growing up, she saw the need among the Latinx community and the struggle between her Spanish speaking peers. She is self-motivated and determined to give back to her Latinx community. Esther took part in initiating a program for grade school students where a language would no longer be an obstacle to excel in their education. Additionally, she lived and witnessed the financial struggle her parents underwent with unfair working conditions. To make a difference due to the injustice people worked under she proudly took a position to work for Community Health Partnership of Illinois as a promoter.

Her aspirations are to use her fluency in Spanish and English, experience with bilingual translations, computer skills, and organizational abilities. She wants to help others understand and take advantage of their rights by law. Wherever Esther goes she will passionately and enthusiastically contribute and put to practice here in FLAP and continue advocating for her community as well. As FLAP’s Bilingual Community Outreach and Education Specialist, her responsibilities include community outreach and education and providing resources to low-income latinx immigrant, migrant, and seasonal workers in Illinois.

Juana Cordova

Juana Cordova is a first-generation Latina, born in Waukegan, Illinois and raised in the Round Lake community. Her parents, originally from Michoacán, Mexico, brought with them their indigenous cultural heritage that Juana embraces wholeheartedly. Growing up, Juana found empowerment and a deep connection to her roots through traditional Purepecha dances of Michoacán, a tradition her family keeps alive today.

From a young age, Juana was aware of the challenges her family faced. Her grandfather and uncle were both Braceros, part of the Bracero program. They sought a better life but encountered numerous injustices, such as racial discrimination, wage theft, and inhumane working and living conditions. These experiences were woven into Juana’s upbringing, instilling in her a profound sense of justice and a desire to advocate for her community.

Education became a beacon of hope for Juana. She pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a concentration in Law & Courts, along with a minor in Sociology, at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). Her academic journey was not just about personal achievement; it was about gaining the tools to fight for her community.

At UIC, Juana’s leadership and advocacy skills flourished. As a student representative, she organized town hall meetings to address pressing issues, drafted legislation to enhance student life, and planned events to enrich the campus experience. Her dedication to representing approximately 400 students in administrative meetings showcased her commitment to being a voice for others.

In February 2023, Juana led a group of students from the UI sister campuses in a lobbying effort in Springfield, Illinois. She collaborated with leaders to advocate for increased university funding and crucial initiatives like MAP grants and mental health resources. Juana’s efforts amplified the collective voice of the university community, striving to secure essential resources for students.

Her advocacy extended to the Open Education Resource Program at UIC, where she worked from January to May 2023. She played a pivotal role in trying to restore the program, this program would make textbooks more affordable and accessible for students. Juana also served as a Social Science Department Ambassador, addressing student challenges and fostering a supportive academic environment.

Juana’s connection to her community runs deep. She grew up in a low-income household, witnessing firsthand the struggles her parents faced, including poverty and limited education. Her mother, working in the restaurant industry, dealt with unstable work schedules and other injustices. These experiences shaped Juana’s perspective and fueled her determination to advocate for workers’ rights and social justice.

Today, Juana continues her fight for justice with unwavering passion. She leverages her background and experiences to help her community, ensuring that those who may not know their rights in the workplace are informed and supported. She is based in the Round Lake community in Lake County and hopes to continue her advocacy efforts at FLAP, informing low-wage workers about their rights and the resources available to them.

Gina Davila

Multilingual Administrative and Intake Assistant

Gina Dávila is originally from Quito, Ecuador. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Universidad de las Américas (UDLA) and a Master’s in Marketing and Commercial Management from the Universidad de Barcelona. She has also pursued additional studies in Neurolinguistic Programming and Executive Excellence at Universidad Autónoma de México, Marketing in a Digital World with the University of Illinois, Introduction to Public International Law at Universidad Anáhuac, and Diplomatic Practice at O.P. Jindal University. Gina is a native Spanish speaker, fluent in English, and conversational in Portuguese.

Her passion for advocacy and community service began during her years at UDLA, where she served as Vice President of the Student Council, participated in academic clubs, and supported outreach initiatives. She also worked as an Admissions Host, recruiting and guiding low-wage students through financial aid processes, and volunteered her time to provide free tutoring for peers who could not afford private lessons. These early experiences solidified her commitment to helping others access opportunities and build brighter futures.

In February 2025, Gina relocated to Chicago, Illinois. Shortly after, she volunteered with the Ecuadorian Consulate during Ecuador’s presidential elections, an experience that strengthened her desire to serve vulnerable communities and uplift their voices. She now serves as a Bilingual Administrative and Intake Assistant at FLAP, where she continues her mission to promote dignity, justice, and equity for low-wage immigrant workers.

As FLAP’s Bilingual Administrative and Intake Assistant, Gina Dávila provides frontline support to immigrant and low-wage workers in Cook County. She assists with intake services, ensures individuals are connected to legal and social resources, and strengthens FLAP’s capacity to respond to the urgent needs of the communities it serves. Guided by her belief in healthcare, justice, and equity as fundamental rights, Gina is committed to amplifying the voices of those most impacted by injustice.

Adriana Hoyos

Adriana Maria Hoyos is a driven professional who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Communications from the Pontifical Bolivarian University in her hometown of Medellin, Colombia. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to expanding her knowledge in the areas of leadership, community work, and teamwork. Her journey began with her active involvement in AIESEC, a nonprofit organization that empowers young individuals to enhance their leadership skills through a range of practical experiences, including internships and volunteer opportunities.

Even during her university years, Adriana actively sought enriching experiences in community work. She played a crucial role in organizing “The Seminar on Environmental Policy and Legislation” led by the Ecological and Cultural Corporation Penca de Sábila, an environmental nonprofit focused on education and the promotion of alternative environmental management. Adriana’s university internship at the Medellín’s Metro, Colombia’s first mass transportation system, allowed her to educate the low-income community on the efficient use and proper care of the Metro system. Her dedication to her role exemplified her professionalism and commitment to public service.

In her position as Communications Coordinator at the Mayor’s Office in Bello in Colombia, Adriana worked closely with the mayor, spearheading health campaigns, educational initiatives, and impactful events for vulnerable communities. Her efforts significantly contributed to the well-being and improved quality of life of these communities. Additionally, Adriana served as the Head of Communications at ACTUAR Famiempresas, where she successfully organized educational and commercial events for the community. Her exceptional leadership skills led to the establishment of 250 microenterprises in low-resource areas of the Medellin city. Adriana also had the honor of leading the prestigious award ceremony for “The Family Entrepreneur of the Year” alongside the Colombian President.

Throughout her career, Adriana consistently prioritized forging connections with the community. In her role as Director of Communications at various shopping centers in Medellín, she spearheaded recreational, cultural, and educational events, fostering a sense of awareness and belonging within the local population towards their shopping centers.

Motivated by her proactive nature and the desire to provide a better future for her children, Adriana embarked on a journey to the United States. Since her arrival, she has dedicated her efforts to creating support networks and building meaningful friendships. Through her connections, she has engaged with organizations such as Between Friends, Hispanic Federation, and YWCA, all committed to making a positive impact in the community. For the past three years, Adriana has called Evanston, IL home. Her purpose is to give back to the community, reflecting the support and guidance she received when she arrived without family or friends. Adriana initially joined FLAP as Spanish Speaker Community Navigator and now hold the position of Bilingual Senior Outreach Supervisor. During her time with FLAP, Adriana has successfully completed the Leadership Evanston LE XXXII 2023-2024 by the Evanston Community Foundation. She has formed significant partnerships with several organization sharing the goal of making a lasting impact on the community she now calls home. completed Adriana is fluent in English and Spanish.

Maria Johnson

Maria Johnson currently lives in Chicago, Cook County and is originally from El Salvador. Maria grew up on her grandparent’s farm where she helped grow corn, beans, and a variety of fruit and vegetables. Through these experiences, she understood firsthand the challenges faced by families with limited resources.

Determined to continue her education, Maria pursued post-secondary studies at Gerado Barrios University in Usulután, El Salvador, where she completed 3 years of Education in Technology. In 2017, she immigrated to the United States, with a commitment to further her education and personal growth. She earned her GED in 2018 and later completed an English as a Second Language (ESL) class at Wilbur Wright College in 2024.

Maria’s dedication to service began through volunteer work in literacy classes, where she provided English to Spanish translations, and in programs for domestic violence. Her dedication quickly led her to a position on the administrative staff in a community center, where she continued building her skills and impact. To strengthen her administrative skills, she obtained a Nonprofit Accounting Professional certificate by The Nonprofit CPAs Alliance.

Drawing from her own experiences growing up in a low-wage community and facing her own immigration challenges, Maria is inspired to help and empower low-wage workers that FLAP serves.

Dayana Brigith Mizhquiri

Dayana Brigith Mizhquiri is a native of El Salvador. In 2017, she made the courageous decision to leave her homeland to ensure her safety, becoming the sole member of her family to migrate to the United States.

Driven by a commitment to help marginalized populations, Brigith studied Social Work for three years at Universidad Panamericana of El Salvador. Concurrently, she worked at Libras de Amor (FUSAL), where she initiated disaster relief efforts for rural and underserved areas in San Salvador. After moving to Chicago, Brigith improved her English and obtained her GED while volunteering at a nonprofit in Northeast Chicago. Her dedication led to her promotion to a staff member of the Legal Immigration Aid Program.

Motivated by compassion and service, Brigith enhanced her skills through legal training at DePaul University, focusing on family immigration law, DACA, and other services. Known for her diligence, empathy, and flexibility, she remains dedicated to her community and eager to share her expertise.

Brigith is dedicated to advocating for low-wage immigrants and refugees, especially low-wage Latin American families. Her work promotes education, family development, and community leadership. Her own challenges, including immigration detention and seeking asylum, inspired her to help others, fueled by the support she received from volunteers during her detention.

As a Bilingual Community Outreach and Education Specialist at FLAP, Brigith continues to serve her community by providing information and connecting people with essential resources. She also supports FLAP Immigration Program with FLAP’s Immigration Managing Attorney.  She sees FLAP as a platform for professional growth and making a significant impact. Believing in the power of education, she is committed to empowering others through knowledge and advocacy. Brigith is bilingual and she speaks, reads and writes English and Spanish.

Sasha Reyes

Sasha Reyes is a proud graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. She is a first-generation Latina who was raised on the south side of Chicago by two hard working parents. Growing up, Sasha’s primary language was Spanish; she has vivid memories of learning English before entering kindergarten and as such, she is bilingual and fluent in both English and Spanish.

Sasha has been committed to serving her community; as a young adult, she and a couple of classmates co-founded an after-school club at Whitney Young Magnet High School. At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a gender in the workplace class Sasha took opened her eyes to farm workers’ working conditions. During college, Sasha was then inspired to partake in a successful national campaign involving Trader Joe’s who was rightfully asked to pay farm workers merely one more penny per bucket of tomatoes that were harvested.

After graduating, Ms. Reyes joined First Defense Legal Aid. She worked as a bilingual Know Your Rights educator delivering workshops in English and Spanish under the supervision of attorneys.

Since Sasha could remember, when asked what profession she wanted to be a part of, She always responded with “I want to help people”. This mission she always carried with her in her heart wherever she went. Sasha is happily committed to continue advocating for her community in all capacities and is delighted that she can continue her Know Your Rights work at FLAP! As a Bilingual Advocacy and Intake Specialist she supports FLAP’s mission distributing important information to those that do not know their rights regardless of their immigration status.

Jessica Rivas

Jessica Rivas was born and raised on the south side of Chicago to immigrant parents from Durango, Mexico. Her parents instilled in her the importance of practicing their Mexican traditions, customs, and language. Thus, she learned how to speak, write, and read Spanish before English. As a young child, she experienced the legal and social hardships many immigrant families encounter living in the shadows. From, accessing programs and services due to language, immigration status, and economic barriers. Both her parents taught her the importance of a strong work ethic and to always keep moving forward. Motivated by a sense of justice and in-conformity to the status quo, she’s committed to helping undocumented immigrants and their children thrive in their new communities and navigate their new surroundings by providing services and programming through language access. Jessica joined AmeriCorps (NCCC) in 2013, where she assisted multiple non-profits in the Midwest to build capacity in their programming and services. That same year, she was awarded the President’s Service Award for her outstanding commitment to volunteerism.

Advancing her career in the non-profit sector, she started working at YMCA of the USA (YUSA) supporting the New American Welcome Center (NAWC), which focused on helping newcomer immigrants integrate into their new communities, through direct services, inclusion programs, and community efforts. In 2018, she led a national campaign at YUSA known as Welcoming Week, where she coordinated multicultural bridge-building activities to bring the receiving and immigrant community together. Jessica designed and developed an immigrant youth portfolio, which included the creation of tools and resources in healthcare, advocacy, education, and employment access.

At FLAP, she will further the quality of life for LatinX workers by ensuring they receive equitable access to services and programs, by providing timely language assistance through her work as a Bilingual Operations and Finances Coordinator; she is fluent in English and Spanish.

Maria Paula Rodriguez

Maria Paula Rodríguez currently lives in Irving Park, Cook County and is originally
from Bogotá, Colombia, where she grew up in Yopal, Casanare. She earned her law
degree from Universidad Santo Tomás in Bogotá, Colombia and spent three years
engaged with the Human Rights and International Law Research Group. Maria Paula is
currently completing her English as a Second Language (ESL) course at Truman
College.
Maria Paula’s passion for social justice began during her work as a legal assistant in
Colombia, where she supported vulnerable populations, including single mothers, senior
citizens, and low-wage workers. After moving to Chicago in 2022, she experienced
firsthand the challenges of navigating the workforce as an immigrant, taking jobs in
restaurants, factories, and snow removal. Facing discrimination and a lack of accessible
legal information, she became determined to learn more about immigrant rights and
share that knowledge with others.
In 2024, Maria Paula volunteered with organizations as an immigrant recruiter,
educating marginalized workers about their labor rights and helping them access better
wages. Now, as FLAP’s Bilingual Outreach and Legal Support Coordinator, she plays a vital
role in supporting the organization’s operations and outreach efforts, ensuring that low-
wage workers receive the resources and advocacy they need to defend their rights.

Amy Salazar

Amy Salazar was born and raised in Little Village, a vibrant Latine community in Chicago’s Cook County.  Amy earned a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Communications from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She has worked with nonprofit organizations and combined her academic studies with practical experience in marketing and outreach to create engaging content and coordinate community events.
As the daughter of Latine immigrants who worked tirelessly in construction and other low-wage industries, she grew up witnessing the challenges faced by workers in demanding and often unsafe conditions. This personal connection inspires her commitment to supporting underrepresented communities and amplifying their voices through strategic, mission-driven communication.
As FLAP’ Bilingual Communications Assistant, Amy leverages her expertise to enhance communication efforts that empower low-wage workers. She is proud to contribute to advancing FLAP’s mission of providing advocacy, resources, and support to those in need. Amy is fluent in both English and Spanish.

Fidelia Salazar

Fidelia emigrated from Durango, Mexico, more than 25 years ago in search of better opportunities for herself and her family. As an immigrant woman, she faced challenges ranging from language barriers and cultural differences to experiences of discrimination. Rather than allowing these obstacles to limit her, Fidelia pursued education and personal growth—completing an English as a Second Language (ESL) program and earning a certificate as a Bilingual Office Assistant from Triton College. She also completed several of FLAP’s Leadership Avanza! trainings, including one focused on Management Styles, which helped strengthen her leadership capacity.

Over the years, Fidelia has become a respected leader and advocate for immigrant and low-wage workers. Through her involvement with nonprofit organizations, she has worked to empower immigrant families and promote workers’ rights. Fidelia has organized and facilitated Know Your Rights workshops, led citizenship and DACA informational sessions, and engaged in advocacy campaigns to advance laws protecting immigrant workers. She has also assisted individuals in completing critical applications such as Temporary Protected Status (TPS), Employment Authorization Documents (EAD), and Deferred Action for Labor Enforcement (DALE), helping families navigate complex immigration systems with care and precision.

During her time with FLAP, FLAP, Fidelia conducted extensive outreach to low-wage workers across Illinois in industries including farming, landscaping, canneries, greenhouses, meatpacking, nurseries, poultry, restaurants, and snow plowing. She distributed thousands of labor rights materials, delivered over 2,000 direct resources, facilitated more than 80 workshops, and helped administer federal aid programs to support immigrant and Latino workers.

Fidelia is widely recognized for her empathy, dedication, and strong communication skills, making her a trusted ally in the fight for social justice. Beyond her nonprofit work, she has volunteered in local schools, served on parent committees, and received multiple awards for her leadership and community service. Her journey reflects resilience, compassion, and a deep commitment to advocacy.

Today, Fidelia continues to be guided by her belief that knowledge is power: “I am deeply committed to empowering others through knowledge of their rights and access to resources. I firmly believe that an informed community is a strong community.”

Community Navigator

Under the FLAP’s Community Navigator Program the organization does economic mobility and trains low-wage workers in the cannery, farming, greenhouse, landscaping, meat, nursery, packinghouse, poultry, restaurants, and snow plowing industries FLAP is focusing, to deliver information and resources to their own community helping them overcome barriers to accessing vital resources and services, connecting them with legal services, government programs, healthcare, social services, and other community support systems. Because they are often members of the community, they build trust and serve as effective liaisons between low-wage people and service providers empowering individuals and families to take control of their goals and connect with the resources they need. 

Arely A. Anaya

Arely A. Anaya is a former Director of Development and Communications staff at FLAP and has volunteered with social justice efforts and in political campaigns to help uplift many issues that low-wage communities face in the workplace and throughout the society.

Arely is a proud graduate of Northeastern Illinois University where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Global Studies. Arely is currently enrolled in the Geography and Environmental Studies Master’s Program at Northeastern Illinois University. She has also completed the Leadership, Equity, and Action for our Food System (LEAFS) Fellowship with Mercy for Animals. Additionally, Arely is the proud recipient of the 2024 Breaking It Down Emerging Leaders Award.

Arely developed her passion for helping low-wage communities after growing up seeing her single mother struggle financially and under unfair working conditions while employed in the food, homecare, landscape, and construction industries. Arely’s mother often shared stories with her and her siblings of being an undocumented farm worker in the 1980’s in Salinas, California and the injustices that workers still face. Those stories and the struggles she saw her mom in, inspired her to advocate and empower immigrant and low-wage workers.

Fluent in both English and Spanish, as FLAP’s Grant Writing Consultant, Arely supports the organizational growth and impact.

Arlo Chapple

Arlo Chapple is Special Projects Consultant at FLAP. He works with the Chief Executive Officer on Special Projects. Arlo has a passion for helping the low-wage community. At FLAP, he helps the organization grow and supports the important work it does to improve working conditions and opportunities in Illinois.

Arlo graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Rochester in 2007 with a concentration in English and Creative Writing. Following graduation, he worked for a small manufacturer, working to make sustainable, eco-friendly skateboards. After that, using his hand-on knowledge of building, and his love for writing, Arlo helped create a variety of educational exhibits for nature centers and history centers in Illinois and Wisconsin.

In 2017, after premiering an exhibit that Arlo helped write, the Grand Army of the Republic Museum in Aurora, Illinois, won a state award for Small Institute of the Year.  

Arlo speaks, reads, and writes English and speaks conversational Spanish.

Arthur S. Gunn

Memo Ramirez

Memo Ramirez, coming from a family of farmers and ranchers in northern Mexico and remembering the struggles his parents had after coming to the United States, was drawn to volunteer for the past 14 years, and help FLAP fulfill their mission advocating and empowering low-wage immigrant workers.

Memo has been a software and data engineer for over 15 years – specializing in building cross-platform and data-driven applications, websites, and services. He has also consulted for several small businesses, NPOs, and large corporations with their data analytics infrastructure – developing data pipelines and software solutions when needed.

Diana Ramos

Diana Ramos is the Chief of Finances Consultant at FLAP with over 15 years of experience in accounting and tax. Diana began her career at The Northern Trust Company. After years of exploring and gaining experience in different industries, Diana decided to pursue her passion and provide accounting and tax services to small business clients in the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors, serving nonprofit entities since 2018. 

Diana is Latina and Speaks English and Spanish.

Nieves Ruiz

Nieves Ruiz developed her passion to help the low-wage community during her life experience in Cuba where she studied Economics at Havana University. Nieves shared the needs and constraints in her country with family and friends and was linked to donation projects and aid programs to improve the quality of life of children and their families. She had the opportunity to work for companies in Denver Colorado that allowed her to develop Marketing and Sales programs aimed at generating jobs and the possibility of studies. In the past years she created her own company in Cuba where the community could receive cultural programs and intellectual improvement of their physical condition. Nieves has worked directly with families in neighborhoods and schools with on-street sports programs and parks for children. At this time as Bilingual Programmatic Grant Consultant at FLAP, she helps supporting the low-wage community so their rights are respected and have a chance for income greater. She is an active representative of this community. Her responsibilities include analyzing data, daily review of FLAP reports, data entry and pulling up reports. Nieves is fluent in both English and Spanish.

Mary Beth Abascal, CPA

Accountants Plus, Ltd.