About Us
OUR STORY
UNO began in 1984 when three community leaders envisioned a citywide organization to advocate for Latiné issues through institutionalized organizing, civic engagement, and leadership training. Through these efforts, UNO helped naturalize thousands of undocumented families, expanded and improved educational opportunities, and witnessed graduates of its leadership program become pivotal players in the political and economic arenas.
With new leadership and a recognition of the evolving needs of our community, we revitalized our focus in 2018 to empower young girls. This was achieved through a comprehensive and equitable well-being approach, synergetic partnerships, and a legacy of Latiné empowerment.
Meet the Team
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Maya Solis
Executive Director
Maya, a proud Pilsen native and alumna of Chicago Public School, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role as the Executive Director of UNO.
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Solskin Gomez-Krogh
Senior Program Manager
Solskin Gómez-Krogh has been empowering Latine businesses and the community for the past 25 years.
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Carlos Jaramillo
La Carrera Race Director
Blending cultural heritage with fitness, Carlos Jaramillo created La Carrera de los Muertos 5k race in Pilsen, Chicago, back in 2007.
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Kourtnei Neely
Youth Program Facilitator
Tennessee native turned Chicagoan, Kourtnei double majored in Psychology and Spanish at Loyola Marymount University before making her way to the Windy City.
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Cynthia Castillo
Office Manager
Cynthia brings more than 25 years of seasoned administrative and customer service experience to UNO’s team.
Meet the Board
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Stella Gaytan
Chairwoman of the Board
Stella is the President of Bell Fuels, a 100+ year old, woman-owned and operated full-service fuel distribution partner.
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Robert Marin
Board Treasurer
Robert has dedicated his career to strategic wealth management and financial planning.
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Sol Solis
Board Secretary
Sol brings her business development background and strong community ties to the board of UNO, as a proud women-owned entrepreneur.
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Cesar Lopez
Board Member
Cesar Lopez, President of Best Networks, Inc., is a trailblazer in IT consulting, development, and management.
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Esther Grachan
Board Member
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Aracelis Marie Sanchez-Guerero
Board Member
Aracelis is the Manager of Collaborative Organizational Partnerships at Dominican University, where she serves as a connector and advocate. A first-generation Latina college graduate who is dedicated to breaking down barriers, Aracelis will bring her impressive experience to help strengthen our mission to empower girls across Chicago.
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Fabiola Flores Chico
Board Member
Fabi is the President of FF Consultants. She has helped increase knowledge around wellness and health care for Latino communities across Chicago. Throughout her career, Fabi has focused on community outreach tactics and partnerships that have connected educators, community organizations, and health providers to help support awareness on holistic mental and physical wellness.
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Susana Ochoa
Board Member
A proud native Chicagoan and daughter of Mexican immigrants, Susana is an attorney with decades of experience in the federal judiciary, private practice and federal government industry. As an avid marathon runner, she is passionate about encouraging her community to value health, education and fitness.
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Socorro Vazquez
Board Member
Socorro is the CEO and sole owner of Toro Construction Corporation. With decades of experience in business development, implementing strategy, and managing overall operations of the company, Socorro has been recognized as a leading figure in the Latina business community.
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Monica Lopez
Board Member
Monica is an HR leader, a diversity and inclusion champion, and a community builder. With more than 15 years of experience, Monica is a distinguished leader in the field of human resources, having built and led diverse teams across industries while placing a strong focus on employee well-being.
Our Partners
