The youth needs strong mentors and a firm grasp on the basics to succeed in education. One organization that is addressing that issue is, Breakthrough Silicon Valley.  Breakthrough Silicon Valley works with the San Jose School District as well as the Franklin School District to recruit 6th grade students to for their 6 year program.

The program is year round and includes after school tutoring and summer sessions that are focused on the mathematics and sciences. The program also provides opportunities to meet professional adults through Career Day and Company Tours.

One of the bright faces and advocates for Breakthrough Silicon Valley is Development and Communications Director, Christina Castro. On a bright sunny Friday morning Castro and I met for coffee to not only discuss Breakthrough but how she came to work in the nonprofit sector.

Castro’s story started in Queens, New York.  Her father was an immigrant from Spain and her mother grew up in the Bronx. Both parents did not have a lot of disposable income but they believed in the power of giving back.

“My parents had a strong work ethnic and taught us to give back to the community. My mom and I did a lot of New York Cares projects.

Castro went on to receive a Master’s Degree in Hispanic Studies from Villanova University and had plans to be a Spanish professor. But that career path would require her to do a lot of research and work alone.

“That did not fit my personality. So when I finished my master’s program, my now husband got a job opportunity in California. I had to make the jump in our relationship, you know move across the country.” Castro stated.

While here in the Bay Area, Castro went to job interviews via bike because she had no car.

“Some companies were okay with the fact that I am riding up to their office on a bike, while others just looked at me at me odd,” shared Castro.

During her job search time, she volunteered with Breakthrough and Reading Partners.  Finally a position opened up at Breakthrough. Working at Breakthrough has been an exceptional experience for Castro.

“When you start working with young individuals there is so much hope and potential. I like nurturing that. The students that are graduating are changing the trajectory of their families,” stated Castro.

After working in the nonprofit sector for a few years, she has some advice for young professionals who are interested in the field.

“Nonprofit industry is hard because it’s built on passion. But being passionate about the work is what keeps me going,” stated Castro.  For young professionals who are worried about the pay in the nonprofit sector, Castro believes it doesn’t matter how much you make but what you do with it.

Christina Castro a young woman with a heart of gold.