EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: Stephanie Serrano-Salva
Nominated by Sara Landaverde, Director of Survivor Advocacy & Outreach Programs for Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Stalking, & Homelessness
“Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” – John F. Kennedy
Stephanie Serrano-Salva is a small, but mighty force at the YWCA. She has come into her own as a leader, and shown no signs of stopping her growth.
“This is actually my first time working in a non-profit organization,” said Stephanie, who started at the agency in October 2023 as Sexual Assault Counselor. “It’s been a rewarding experience so far, and I’ve really appreciated the opportunity to work directly with the community and contribute to meaningful change.”
Promoted to the Direct Care Supervisor for the Community-Based Domestic Violence (CBDV) and Sexual Assault (SA) Programs in August 2024, Stephanie had no prior counseling experience before joining the YWCA team.
“I was looking to explore a new field, and a close friend who works in this area asked me, ‘Why don’t you try the YWCA,’” she said. Stephanie took a leap of faith. “Everything was completely new to me. I went into the interview with zero experience, but a lot of motivation to learn; and here I am learning, growing, and truly loving this field.”
“Stephanie rises to the occasion every time I set an expectation or task for her to complete,” said Sara Landaverde, Director of Survivor Advocacy & Outreach Programs for Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Stalking, & Homelessness. “She is a hard worker who does her best to make sure all tasks are complete and that all obligations are covered in regard to partnerships the CBDV and SA teams have with other organizations/agencies.”
As the Direct Care Supervisor, Stephanie provides supervision and support to the domestic violence and sexual assault counselors, ensuring that services are trauma-informed and survivor-centered, as well as helping manage daily workflows.
Added Stephanie, “I also support the team with crisis intervention, advocacy, and safety planning when needed. In addition to my supervisory responsibilities, I provide direct services to clients, including support counseling and advocacy. I conduct trainings and presentations in the community to raise awareness and strengthen response efforts. I provide medical advocacy to support survivors in healthcare settings.”
“Stephanie is a great advocate for her clients and with the survivors she engages with during med calls,” said Sara. “She goes above and beyond to make sure all her clients are advocated for when they are in need or struggling to obtain services or resources.”
Stephanie’s thirst for knowledge knows no bounds. “My goal is to grow in roles that allow me to both support survivors and advocate for systemic change,” said Stephanie, who has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Social Work. “I’ve always been passionate about advocacy and supporting people,” she added.
“I am grateful to have an AMAZING team that’s always supportive of one another,” said Stephanie. “Their encouragement and teamwork make my role more manageable and so much more enjoyable. I couldn’t ask for a better group of people to work with.”
