{"id":3332,"date":"2025-09-19T15:03:40","date_gmt":"2025-09-19T20:03:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/?p=3332"},"modified":"2026-10-09T14:32:32","modified_gmt":"2026-10-09T19:32:32","slug":"celebrating-the-leadership-of-raul-fernandez-at-seis-puentes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/es\/celebrating-the-leadership-of-raul-fernandez-at-seis-puentes\/","title":{"rendered":"Celebrating the Leadership of Raul Fernandez at Seis Puentes"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"et_pb_section_0 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section\"><div class=\"et_pb_row_0 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_0 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_post_title_0 et_pb_post_title et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_title_container\"><h1 class=\"entry-title\">Celebrating the Leadership of Raul Fernandez at Seis Puentes<\/h1><p class=\"et_pb_title_meta_container\"><span class=\"published\">Sep 19, 2025<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_1 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_1 et_pb_column et_pb_column_2_5 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_0 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><a href=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Celebrating-the-Leadership-of-Raul-Fernandez-at-Seis-Puentes.png\" title=\"Celebrating the Leadership of Raul Fernandez at Seis Puentes\" class=\"et_pb_lightbox_image\" alt=\"A man in a white sweatshirt and glasses smiles at the camera, surrounded by four children posing happily indoors. One child gives a peace sign, and everyone looks joyful.\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Celebrating-the-Leadership-of-Raul-Fernandez-at-Seis-Puentes.png\" alt=\"A man in a white sweatshirt and glasses smiles at the camera, surrounded by four children posing happily indoors. One child gives a peace sign, and everyone looks joyful.\" title=\"Celebrating the Leadership of Raul Fernandez at Seis Puentes\" width=\"1200\" height=\"628\" srcset=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Celebrating-the-Leadership-of-Raul-Fernandez-at-Seis-Puentes.png 1200w, https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Celebrating-the-Leadership-of-Raul-Fernandez-at-Seis-Puentes-980x513.png 980w, https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Celebrating-the-Leadership-of-Raul-Fernandez-at-Seis-Puentes-480x251.png 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1200px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-3334\" \/><\/span><\/a><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_gallery_0 et_pb_gallery et_pb_bg_layout_dark et_pb_slider et_pb_gallery_fullwidth clearfix et_pb_module\" data-auto-rotate=\"off\" data-auto-rotate-speed=\"\"><div class=\"et_pb_gallery_items et_post_gallery clearfix\" data-per_page=\"4\"><div class=\"et_pb_gallery_item et_pb_gallery_item_0_0\"><div class=\"et_pb_gallery_image landscape\" data-per_page=\"4\"><a href=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Feliz-dia-del-profesor.jpg\" title=\"Feliz di\u0301a del profesor\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1080\" height=\"1350\" src=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Feliz-dia-del-profesor.jpg\" alt=\"A smiling man in a brown jacket stands in front of the Seis Puentes Hispanic Outreach logo on a blue background, with text thanking Ra\u00fal Fernandez for his unwavering support and affection toward Seis Puentes.\" class=\"wp-image-3342\" srcset=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Feliz-dia-del-profesor.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Feliz-dia-del-profesor-980x1225.jpg 980w, https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Feliz-dia-del-profesor-480x600.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1080px, 100vw\" \/><span class=\"et_overlay\" data-icon=\"\" data-icon-tablet=\"\" data-icon-phone=\"\"><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_gallery_item et_pb_gallery_item_0_1\"><div class=\"et_pb_gallery_image landscape\" data-per_page=\"4\"><a href=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8392.jpeg\" title=\"IMG_8392\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"612\" height=\"781\" src=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8392.jpeg\" alt=\"Three people stand smiling behind a table displaying colorful drawstring bags. The table has a cloth with a red heart and the text SEIS PUENTES HISPANIC OUTREACH printed on it. They appear to be at an outdoor event.\" class=\"wp-image-3343\" srcset=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8392.jpeg 612w, https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8392-480x613.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 612px, 100vw\" \/><span class=\"et_overlay\" data-icon=\"\" data-icon-tablet=\"\" data-icon-phone=\"\"><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_gallery_item et_pb_gallery_item_0_2\"><div class=\"et_pb_gallery_image landscape\" data-per_page=\"4\"><a href=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8393.jpeg\" title=\"IMG_8393\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1536\" height=\"2048\" src=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8393.jpeg\" alt=\"A group of people stands outdoors on a paved surface, holding a blue ribbon in a line. One person at a podium cuts the ribbon while others smile. Trees and an Arkansas state flag are visible in the background.\" class=\"wp-image-3344\" srcset=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8393.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8393-1280x1707.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8393-980x1307.jpeg 980w, https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8393-480x640.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 1536px, 100vw\" \/><span class=\"et_overlay\" data-icon=\"\" data-icon-tablet=\"\" data-icon-phone=\"\"><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_gallery_item et_pb_gallery_item_0_3\"><div class=\"et_pb_gallery_image landscape\" data-per_page=\"4\"><a href=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8394.jpeg\" title=\"IMG_8394\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1367\" src=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8394.jpeg\" alt=\"A diverse group of people smiling and raising their hands stand together under a banner that reads, \u201cComing Soon: The Future Home of SES Puentes Hispanic Resource Center,\u201d celebrating at an indoor event.\" class=\"wp-image-3345\" srcset=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8394.jpeg 2048w, https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8394-1280x854.jpeg 1280w, https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8394-980x654.jpeg 980w, https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8394-480x320.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 2048px, 100vw\" \/><span class=\"et_overlay\" data-icon=\"\" data-icon-tablet=\"\" data-icon-phone=\"\"><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_gallery_item et_pb_gallery_item_0_4\"><div class=\"et_pb_gallery_image landscape\" data-per_page=\"4\"><a href=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8396.jpeg\" title=\"IMG_8396\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"810\" height=\"1080\" src=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8396.jpeg\" alt=\"Five smiling people pose indoors in front of a colorful Building Bridges banner. One person sits at a table with flowers and roses, while the other four stand behind him. The setting appears cheerful and celebratory.\" class=\"wp-image-3346\" srcset=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8396.jpeg 810w, https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_8396-480x640.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 810px, 100vw\" \/><span class=\"et_overlay\" data-icon=\"\" data-icon-tablet=\"\" data-icon-phone=\"\"><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_2 et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_5 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_0 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>For the past four years, Seis Puentes has been fortunate to have Raul Fernandez as our Executive Director. Today, as we mark this peaceful transition of leadership, we want to honor Raul\u2019s many achievements and reflect on the legacy he leaves behind.<\/p>\n<p>Raul\u2019s tenure was defined by innovation, growth, and an unwavering commitment to the Latino and immigrant community of Central Arkansas. Early on, he recognized the need to expand our English classes, rebranding and strengthening them to better serve the diverse learners who walked through our doors. He then introduced transformative programs such as Espacios Seguros, a safe space initiative; MUJER + Madre, which uplifts women and mothers; and Cafecito y Finanzas, bringing financial literacy into the community.<\/p>\n<p>His vision extended beyond programming. Raul launched a capital campaign that led to one of the most historic moments in Seis Puentes\u2019 25+ years of service\u2014the purchase of our very first permanent home. This milestone ensures that Seis Puentes will continue to have a stable base from which to serve the community for decades to come.<\/p>\n<p>Equally impactful was Raul\u2019s leadership in advancing policy solutions. His proposal of the North Little Rock ID Card program has already provided over 1,000 residents with official identification\u2014opening access to banking, improving relationships with local law enforcement, and offering a formal welcome into our community fabric.<\/p>\n<p>Raul also nurtured invaluable partnerships, including with the UALR Spanish Department, which has resulted in more than 10 student internships. He fostered collaborations across the region that helped Seis Puentes expand its reach and deepen its impact.<\/p>\n<p>On the ground, Raul\u2019s compassion shone brightly. He helped expand the feeding program, contributed to the massive backpack drive that placed over 1,000 fully equipped backpacks into the hands of children, organized annual Thanksgiving food distributions, and led the beloved summer art program that brought joy and creativity to families.<\/p>\n<p>While we are saddened to see Raul move on, we are filled with gratitude for his leadership and excited for his next chapter. The foundation he laid and the programs he grew will continue to empower families, build bridges, and strengthen our community.<\/p>\n<p>And though Raul is stepping down as Executive Director, we are delighted to share that he will remain an active member of the Seis Puentes Executive Board of Directors\u2014continuing to guide and support the organization he has helped shape.<\/p>\n<p>Thank you, Raul, for your vision, your service, and your dedication. Your legacy will always be part of Seis Puentes.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_section_1 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section section_has_divider et_pb_top_divider\"><div class=\"et_pb_top_inside_divider et-no-transition\"><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_2 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_3 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_post_nav_0 et_pb_posts_nav nav-single et_pb_module et_block_module\"><span class=\"nav-previous\"><a href=\"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/es\/volunteer-award\/\" rel=\"prev\" class=\"\"><span class=\"meta-nav\">\u2190 <\/span><span class=\"nav-label\">Anterior<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":3334,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3332","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3332","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3332"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3332\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4514,"href":"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3332\/revisions\/4514"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3334"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3332"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3332"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/seispuentes.org\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3332"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}