The American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region recently hosted the first session of its Conferencia de Liderazgo Comunitario y Respuesta a Desastres in Houston, bringing together more than 35 volunteers from across the region. The conference focused on strengthening Latino leadership in disaster response and building culturally competent, community-centered teams.

Volunteers participated in discussions on the Red Cross mission, community mobilization, leadership development, and disaster response operations, including Disaster Action Team and sheltering efforts. A key message throughout the day: Latino volunteers are not just part of the mission, they are helping lead it within their communities.

Regional CEO Carmen Watkins and COO Von Brown joined in person, emphasizing the importance of service and leadership. Participants also heard virtually from Arizona and New Mexico Regional CEO Edgar Olivo, who highlighted the value of investing in diverse leaders.

This conference reflects a collaborative effort to grow strong volunteer leaders who can mobilize communities, respond to disasters, and build trust. It marks continued progress in a movement centered on service, preparedness, and community leadership.

Thank you to all who made this event a success.