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.
Elisa Olivo
Courtesy of Elisa Olivo.Elisa Olivo
Age: 41
Community: West Springfield
Her story: Born in Caguas, Puerto Rico, and now a West Springfield resident, Elisa Olivo told MassLive that she’s always loved being involved in her community.
Before she came to Massachusetts, she studied business administration, management and operations at Columbia Central University in Puerto Rico. She found work with the Department of Justice but after Hurricane Maria hit the island territory, she chose to move to the U.S., according to her biography.
Olivo knew her new life in the States with her son, who is autistic, would “begin from zero,” she said.
“As a single mother of an autistic child, I understand the challenges of finding reliable care while managing unconventional work schedules,” Olivo said.
Olivo works as a learning specialist through the New North Citizens’ Council‘s Parent-Child Program. In this role, she visits families to support early childhood education by “providing tools and resources to help parents foster their children’s development from a young age,” she said.
She pursued working in this role on account of her dream to open a childcare center specialized in supporting children with disabilities, she added. In this role, she has met with other families from across Latin America, including Guatemala and Ecuador. She feels as though she doing what is right for them.
“My personal experience drives my passion for creating a supportive environment for families facing similar struggles,” Olivo said.
Olivo’s son had difficulties with public school, she said, adding “They called three days a week.” She noticed that people in good standing with school officials, including local elected officials, seemed to have better access to the school.
“‘Oh my God, I have to do something,’” Olivo said to herself.
She ran for West Springfield’s councilor-at-large seat in 2023, which brought her face-to-face with other parents who felt that they were struggling, too. Those who approached Olivo during the campaign “thanked me for giving them another perspective.”
While she did not win, she plans to run again in the future but is also looking at a potential run for a school committee position, Olivo told MassLive.
“In that position, I hope I can make things better for parents and students,” she said.
In her words: “Always go after what you want no matter what.”
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.
