Catarin Peña

Dynamic Office Manager at MBI Installed Services, adept in payroll administration and document management. Proven track record in enhancing organizational efficiency and safeguarding confidential information. Bilingual in Spanish and English, with expertise in sign language interpretation, fostering inclusive communication. Committed to accuracy in billing and maintaining streamlined operations.

• Casa San José is a community resource center dedicated to advocating for and empowering Latinos by promoting integration and self-sufficiency. I volunteered at Casa San José, primarily assisting with the children's and youth programs. In the children's program, I helped with after-school activities, offered homework assistance, and served as a mentor. We engaged in various activities and went on field trips designed to encourage interaction among children of the same age while providing educational experiences and exposure to different cultures and available resources. Similar activities were organized for the youth, with the same goals in mind: to foster connections and explore the opportunities available to them for the future. This included programs that assist with schooling and options for those who have graduated from high school and wish to continue their education.
• The Latino Community Center is a nonprofit organization based in Pittsburgh, PA, that is dedicated to empowering, advocating for, and celebrating the Latino community in Allegheny County. I volunteered with the SOY program at Beachwood Elementary School, where I provided after-school support by assisting students with homework and serving as a translator, mentor, and tutor for children in grades 1-5. Additionally, I helped organize a list of summer programs to offer services to parents who wish to enroll their children in activities, allowing them to interact with peers, or who need extra educational support for their children.
• I volunteered at the Christian Church Tabernacle of Prayer, where I cared for children ranging from 40 days old to 12 years old. During my time there, I provided care and attention to the children and engaged in various activities to foster interaction and sharing among them. One of the rewarding experiences I had was caring for a child with a cleft lip. This opportunity taught me about the different types of cleft lip and the specific care these children require. I also had the privilege of caring for a child with clubfoot, which allowed me to learn about the condition, its treatment, and how to support both the child and their family. Additionally, I gained insight into working with children who have dyslexia, autism, or hyperactivity.
• These experiences with three wonderful organizations have not only enriched my understanding of how to assist children and families in need but have also equipped me with valuable knowledge on how to address these situations and provide information and resources to those facing challenges.

I consider myself a person with strong emotional intelligence, as I possess the ability to manage my own emotions and am skilled at understanding and responding to the emotions of others. This capability allows me to navigate various situations thoughtfully, both for myself and for those around me. My analytical nature drives me to pay close attention to the behaviors, speech patterns, and expressions of the people I interact with. By doing so, I can adapt my communication style to meet their needs, which helps establish trust and provides the necessary support they may require.

Resilience is another significant quality I see in myself. Life is full of challenges, and I have learned how to confront these obstacles and continue to move forward, no matter the circumstances I face. This resilience stems from my desire to be well-rounded and my ability to adapt swiftly to changes that life brings my way. I believe that every experience teaches us something valuable, and I continually strive to learn and grow from mine. This journey of personal development has allowed me to cultivate a deeper understanding of myself, as well as an appreciation for the experiences of others.

Empathy is a trait I make a conscious effort to enhance, particularly toward those who are facing difficulties. Having faced my own share of adversity, I understand the importance of compassion. I find that offering support to those in need not only helps them but also enriches my own life. This connection with others enhances my emotional intelligence and strengthens my ability to relate to various situations and emotions.

Creativity is another essential aspect of my character. I have a genuine passion for artistic pursuits, such as listening to music, painting, drawing, and cooking. These creative outlets are not just hobbies; they are vital aspects of my life that allow me to express myself and explore new ideas. I believe in the power of creativity to inspire personal growth and development, not only in myself but also in those around me. I take pride in patiently encouraging others to discover their own creative potential, whether through collaboration in art projects or simply by sharing new recipes in the kitchen.

Furthermore, I see myself as a natural leader. I aspire to inspire and guide those around me while setting a positive example. Leadership, to me, is not solely about taking charge; it is about fostering an environment where others feel empowered to take initiative and develop their own leadership qualities. I aim to create a space where collaboration thrives and individuals feel motivated to support one another in their journeys. By nurturing this sense of community and collaboration, I believe we can cultivate a new generation of leaders who embody the values of empathy, resilience, and creativity.

In summary, my emotional intelligence, resilience, creativity, and natural leadership ability shape the way I engage with the world and the people in it. I continually seek to grow as an individual while also uplifting those around me, thereby creating a positive impact in my community. Through self-reflection, compassionate actions, and encouragement for creative expression, I strive to make meaningful connections and inspire positivity in others. Life presents us with challenges, but through emotional awareness and personal growth, I believe we can all emerge stronger and more connected.