My name is Samantha Gomez (pronouns she/her, they/them). I identify as a Queer, Latinx advocate born and raised here in Salinas, California. I have always had a passion for helping others, which is why I pursued my Bachelor’s degree in Collaborative Health and Human Services with a concentration in Social Work at Cal State Monterey Bay. I graduated from CSUMB in the Spring of 2016 with my Bachelor’s Degree. My passion for working with youth derived from my volunteer experiences, especially with Peacock Acres at the After School Program in the Therapeutic Learning Center. The Epicenter was introduced to me by one of the Founders, who is also my friend, Fernanda. She invited me to take part in the program Our Gente, and shortly after, I was a volunteer at the Epicenter. I have been with The Epicenter as a volunteer since August of 2015 and became an intern for the Our Gente Program in July of 2016. Working with the LGBTQ+ youth has filled my heart with joy and purpose. Attending meetings, training, and events for Our Gente has been insightful and wonderful. On my journey with The Epicenter, my role transitioned from intern to Youth Advocate and Our Gente Program Coordinator. Now, as I am the Drop-In Services Coordinator, my role is to connect youth to community resources in Monterey County. My experience at the center has helped me grow professionally and personally into the person I am today, and for that, I am forever grateful. Best, Sam Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light” – Albus Dumbledore 
