Staff Members

Mari was born in Ensenada, Baja California Mexico. Immigrated to Porterville, California at the age of 13. She enrolled at Porterville High School where she attended 9th

Eric Arias proudly serves as the Vice President of Program Development and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for United Way of Central Eastern California. Since 2020, Eric has

Don Harris is an invaluable member of the United Way of Central Eastern California team, bringing with him a diverse skill set that has evolved over the

Karla Chiquetes joined United Way of Central Eastern California in December of 2019. Karla started as our Family Life Educator, but was quickly promoted to Office Manager

Amelia Dias joined the United Way team in 2018. She started her time as a Data Entry Clerk and Administrative Assistant, then was promoted to Office Manager

Sofia recently joined United Way of Central Eastern California in August 2022. She was born and raised in El Salvador. Sofia graduated from the University of California,

Manuel was born and raised in Bakersfield, CA. Manuel currently attends Bakersfield College, majoring in Political Science. He has served the community through various avenues including political,

Esther Peinado joined United Way of Central Eastern California in July of 2022. Esther earned her BS in Liberal Arts from Cal State University of Bakersfield. As

Karla Garcia joined United Way of Central Eastern California in July of 2022. Karla earned her BA in Communications and Public Relations from Cal State University of

Abigail Rivera joined United Way of Central Eastern California in September of 2022. Abigail has a degree in Business Administration from CSUB. She was born and raised