Public Relations - Where Vision Meets Strategy

Monica Alvarenga, MSW, LCSW, is a proud first-generation Latina, the daughter of a Colombian mother and Salvadoran father, raised on the powerful words, “Sigue Adelante,” Keep moving forward. She completed her bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from SCSU in three years, earned her MSW from UConn in 2004 with a casework focus, and became an LCSW in 2013. That same year she began a 20-year career as a Connecticut Adult Probation Officer, piloting a mental health unit, then serving eleven years in the sex offender unit. She became certified in forensic CBT through CCSU and trained fellow officers and supervisors before retiring. In 2016, she founded Adelante Clinical Services, a name drawn from her family’s mantra. In 2023 she transformed a former blight property in Hartford’s Parkville neighborhood into a wellness center, creating space for healing, movement, and community. She now hosts free summer wellness series including yoga, Pilates, sound healing, and breath work, as well as seasonal self-love and vision-board programs, while providing pro bono services for clients who cannot afford care. She also serves as clinical director at COBA, Charter Oak Boxing Academy, bringing mental health support into a youth sports space, and regularly speaks in Hartford public and CREC schools. Monica’s work is rooted in culture, representation, and the belief that people heal when they are given space to be seen, heard, and unjudged. She learned early how loss could shape a life, and chose instead to let it sharpen her purpose. Today, she is proud to serve her community in the classroom, at COBA, and across Hartford. She thanks God for the privilege of moving through this world as a strong, beautiful Brown Latina woman, and will continue to show up, loud, proud, seen, and heard. Yo sigo adelante.

Nick Lebrón is a Hartford native whose more than 30 years of service reflect a deep connection to the city and the people who call it home. As Director of Community Schools for Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Hartford, he continues a career dedicated to supporting local children, strengthening families and expanding opportunities for young people. His experience spans social work, community organizing, youth sports advocacy and public service, including his time as a Hartford City Council member. These roles have brought him into many corners of community life, connecting direct service to families with broader efforts to address the needs of the city. Across that work, children and families have remained at the center of his commitment. As a co-founder of Active City, Nick has helped advance opportunities for Hartford’s young people through youth sports. His advocacy reflects the value of giving children places to participate, build confidence, develop friendships and experience the sense of belonging that comes from being part of a team. A graduate of Hartford High School, Capital Community College and Trinity College, Nick’s educational and professional journey is rooted in Hartford. His lasting contribution is a career spent investing in the community that raised him—and helping create opportunities for the next generation to grow, contribute and thrive.

William Mercado was born on August 12, 1943, in Aibonito, Puerto Rico. A dedicated entrepreneur, family man, and respected community figure, he spent much of his life building a legacy through hard work, perseverance, and a passion for serving others. In 1970, William founded Aqui Me Quedo Restaurant in Hartford, Connecticut. What began as a small family business grew into a beloved local institution known for its authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, welcoming atmosphere, and strong ties to the community. For decades, William devoted himself to the restaurant industry, finding great joy in meeting customers, building relationships, and sharing his culture through food. William is the proud father of eight children, six daughters and two sons. His family has continued to grow through the years and now includes 18 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren; all of whom are part of the legacy he has worked so hard to create. After a successful career spanning four decades, William officially retired in 2010. Retirement, however, did not keep him away from the business he loved. Even today, he continues to visit both Hartford restaurant locations regularly, greeting customers, sharing stories, and maintaining the personal connections that have always been at the heart of his success. His lifelong dream was to own and operate a successful business, and through determination, commitment, and an unwavering work ethic, he achieved that goal. His work not only provided for his family but also created opportunities for future generations to continue what he started. Today, the legacy of Aqui Me Quedo Restaurant remains strong. The Albany Avenue location at 150 Albany Avenue in Hartford is owned and operated by his oldest daughter, Wilma Rohena, and her husband, Joel Rohena. The location at 622 Park Street in Hartford, is owned and operated by his grandson, Samuel Delgado, and his partner, Franchesca Rivas, who have also expanded and opened a restaurant in Newington (Willard Avenue) in November 2025. William Mercado's story is one of dedication, family, and community. His contributions to Hartford and the Puerto Rican community have left a lasting impact, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations..

Founded in 1982, the Society of Latin American Firefighters has proudly served as a voice, resource, and extended family for Latino and Hispanic firefighters and the communities we serve throughout Greater Hartford. For more than four decades, our mission has extended far beyond the fire station. We are committed to strengthening the relationship between the fire service/public safety and our Hartford community through mentorship, education, outreach, cultural pride, and service. The Society works to create opportunities at every stage of a firefighter’s journey. We mentor and guide members of our community who aspire to become firefighters, helping them understand and navigate the hiring process and encouraging the next generation to see the fire service as a career within their reach. Once they enter the profession, we continue that support by helping our members prepare for promotional opportunities, develop as leaders, and advance through the ranks. Our commitment also reaches the next generation through scholarships, educational support, youth mentorship, and community programs designed to encourage young people to pursue their goals and recognize the opportunities available to them. Whether a young person dreams of becoming a firefighter, attending college, or simply needs positive role models who look like them and understand their community, we strive to be present and make a difference. And our commitment does not end at retirement. We remain connected to our retired members, honoring the men and women who paved the way before us and supporting them whenever and however we can. We believe that once you become part of the Society, you remain part of the Society family. Throughout Greater Hartford, our members proudly give their time through charitable initiatives, scholarships, mentorship, cultural events, community outreach, and partnerships that uplift Latino and Hispanic families. We celebrate where we come from while demonstrating through our actions what service, leadership, representation, and sacrifice truly mean. At its Core, The Society of Latin American Firefighters represents something larger than any one person, rank, or generation. We honor those who opened doors for us, support those walking through those doors today, and work to ensure those doors remain open for the generations that follow.

Mabel Santana is a Dominican-born attorney, entrepreneur, and community leader dedicated to empowering Connecticut’s Latino community. Raised in Baguana, Dominican Republic, she earned her law degree from the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD) and received a scholarship to complete a Master’s in Business Law at Antonio de Nebrija University in Madrid, Spain. Since moving to the United States, Mabel has focused on community service, immigrant education, and preserving Latino culture. She has organized immigration workshops, volunteered with community programs, and helped organize Dominican cultural events in Hartford. She is the founder and President of Latin Empowered Dreamers Inc. (LEDRE), a nonprofit connecting Latino individuals and families with resources in education, health, culture, immigration, and entrepreneurship. As CEO of Legalis Pro LLC, she provides immigration assistance, translation and interpretation services, and training for immigration professionals. Mabel also serves as Vice President of the Dominican Folkloric Ballet (DFB), Inc., helping children and young people connect with their Dominican heritage through dance. A wife and proud mother of two, Mabel draws inspiration from her family as she continues serving her community, preserving her heritage, and creating opportunities for future generations.