MassLive recently asked readers to identify people they consider Hispanic and Latino leaders in Massachusetts, working to make a difference across the state.
Profiles of these leaders will be published over the course of Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. These are people readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.
Ricard Torres-MatelunaSebastian Restrepo
Ricard Torres-Mateluna
Age: 51
Community: Springfield
His story: Since the early 2000s, Ricard Torres-Mateluna has dedicated his time and efforts towards helping people with disabilities from underserved communities.
“I forge meaningful connections between individuals, their unique stories, and our diverse communities through the specialized services our organization offers,” Torres-Mateluna said. “Together, we’re not just providing services; we’re building bridges, fostering understanding, and creating a more vibrant, interconnected community where everyone has the chance to thrive beyond limits.”
Torres-Mateluna is the vice president of marketing and communications of Viability — a non-profit organization located in Springfield that provides human services to individuals with disabilities. Serving in this role for three years now, Torres-Mateluna’s mission is to, “cultivate a more equitable and inclusive society, where people with disabilities and other disadvantages are empowered to reach their full potential.”
“My particular focus is on breaking down language barriers by ensuring our vital services are accessible to Spanish-speaking communities,” Torres-Mateluna told MassLive. “By bridging this gap, we open doors to opportunities and support that might otherwise remain out of reach.”
Torres-Mateluna’s advocacy journey began in Watsonville, California, where he worked with migrant workers looking for services for themselves and their families. These services ranged from lactation, immigration and accessible services for parents and children with disabilities, according to Torres-Mateluna. His journey would then take him to Reno, Nevada, where he would help create exhibits, educational materials and programs at the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum. The exhibits feature braille and audio spoken in Spanish, Tagalog, Basque and Paiute — the last of which is spoken by a Native American nation in the Reno Area, according to Torres-Mateluna.
“As an immigrant, Latino and a father of two children with disabilities I’ve made my mission to be active in making accessibility and inclusion possible for those who need our help getting access, recognition and services,” Torres-Mateluna told MassLive.
Recently, Torres-Mateluna has been serving as a member of the Northampton Jazz Festival’s board of directors. In this role, he has worked to ensure people with disabilities can volunteer at the festival in different capacities and that this year’s musical offerings are broad and welcoming to different styles and musicians worldwide. Torres-Mateluna told MassLive that as an immigrant who has witnessed firsthand the barriers certain groups face in accessing vital services, he has dedicated his career to bridging these gaps and empowering underserved communities.
“Every day, I witness how improved access to information and services can transform lives,” Torres-Mateluna told MassLive. “By breaking down language barriers and cultural misunderstandings, we’re not just providing services – we’re opening doors to opportunities and fostering a more inclusive society.”
In his words: “Immerse yourself in the communities you serve. There’s no substitute for direct engagement with people. Listen actively to their stories, challenges, and aspirations. This firsthand experience is invaluable – it will inform your work and fuel your passion.”
We’re always open to hearing about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.
