Ernestina Caballero
Harlingen,TX
Summary
Results-driven leader with a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology and a Minor in Data Analysis. Extensive experience in strategic resource development, donor engagement, and persuasive communication. Proven ability to align organizational mission with funding opportunities, fostering impactful partnerships and achieving sustainable growth. Skilled in research, project management, and grant writing, with a passion for furthering Young Life's mission.
Administrative professional with solid track record in providing high-quality support and ensuring operational efficiency. Known for fostering team collaboration and achieving results under tight deadlines. Reliable and adaptable, skilled in time management and problem-solving, bringing strong work ethic and attention to detail.
Overview
2025
2025
years of professional experience
Work History
Additional Responsibilities
Young Life
- Served on the Young Life College South Central Divisional Team, contributing to strategic leadership and collaboration across the division
- Participated in the La Frontera Initiative, focusing on fundraising and support for Young Life ministry at the Texas/Mexico border
- Started Young Life College at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in 2021
Area Director
Young Life
09.2023 - Current
- Designed and implemented strategic fundraising plans, consistently exceeding annual targets and maintaining surplus budgets
- Researched, cultivated, and nurtured donor relationships, presenting compelling proposals aligned with organizational goals
- Supervised and trained teams of staff and volunteers, fostering leadership development and spiritual growth
- Maintained comprehensive records on donor engagement and ministry performance using CRM systems
- Developed clear communication materials, including ministry reports, budgets, and donor correspondence
Weekend Camping Director
Young Life
09.2021 - 01.2024
- Designed and led the schedule for weekend retreats, balancing activities, worship, and free time to create a Christ-centered experience for campers and leaders
- Managed and supervised camp staff and volunteers, ensuring all roles contributed to a seamless program and impactful weekend
- Coordinated camp logistics, including facilities, equipment, and safety protocols, to ensure smooth operations and a secure environment
- Fostered spiritual growth by leading devotionals, worship, and small-group activities, encouraging deep connections with Christ
- Acted as the primary liaison between Young Life and visiting groups, providing clear communication regarding logistics, schedules, and expectations
- Managed the weekend budget and resources, ensuring efficient allocation of funds while maintaining high-quality camp operations
- Collected feedback from campers and staff to improve future weekend retreats and enhance overall camp experience
Summer Assignment Summer Staff Coordinator
Young Life
01.2021 - 01.2024
- Recruited, trained, and supervised a diverse team of college-age volunteers, ensuring smooth camp operations across various service areas (e.g., food service, activities, rides, housekeeping)
- Provided spiritual mentorship through devotionals, one-on-one support, and fostering a Christ-centered community
- Managed scheduling, conflict resolution, and team dynamics to maintain a positive and collaborative environment
- Collaborated with camp leadership to align staff contributions with overall camp goals, enhancing the camper experience
- Facilitated end-of-term evaluations and debriefs, offering constructive feedback and encouragement for personal and spiritual growth
Next Gen Leader Graduate
Young Life
08.2018 - 07.2020
- Completed an in-depth leadership development program designed to equip emerging leaders for effective ministry and organizational impact
- Gained practical skills in Young Life essentials: financial training, leader recruitment and development, and fostering belonging through the 4C's framework
- Explored cultural and ethnic identity to enhance cultural competency and leadership within diverse ministry contexts
- Developed skills in personal and professional growth, including self-awareness, financial stewardship, time management, and healthy conflict resolution
- Deepened spiritual practices by focusing on identity in Christ, godly purpose, and cultivating Kingdom-centered relationships
- Engaged in rigorous training to strengthen leadership capabilities and ministry effectiveness in alignment with Young Life's mission
Summer Assignment Head Leader
Young Life
06.2019 - 06.2019
- Coordinated logistics and managed diverse teams for camp assignments, ensuring seamless execution of programming and ministry goals
- Directed communication efforts to engage and motivate participants, leveraging storytelling to inspire action
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology, Statistics, Criminal Justice
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Brownsville, TX12.2022
Skills
- Proposal Writing & Editing
- Prospect Research & Relationship Building
- Data Analysis & CRM Proficiency
- Budget Preparation & Financial Stewardship
- Project Management & Organizational Skills
- Persuasive Communication & Storytelling
- Calendar management
- Meeting scheduling
- File management
- Document preparation
Additionalresponsibilities
- Served on the Young Life College South Central Divisional Team, contributing to strategic leadership and collaboration across the division.
- Participated in the La Frontera Initiative, focusing on fundraising and support for Young Life ministry at the Texas/Mexico border.
- Started Young Life College at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in 2021.
Timeline
Area Director
Young Life
09.2023 - Current
Weekend Camping Director
Young Life
09.2021 - 01.2024
Summer Assignment Summer Staff Coordinator
Young Life
01.2021 - 01.2024
Summer Assignment Head Leader
Young Life
06.2019 - 06.2019
Next Gen Leader Graduate
Young Life
08.2018 - 07.2020
Additional Responsibilities
Young Life
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology, Statistics, Criminal Justice
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Similar Profiles
JONATHAN LEWISJONATHAN LEWIS
Area Director at Young LifeArea Director at Young Life
Felice MullinaxFelice Mullinax
Volunteer Leader at Young LifeVolunteer Leader at Young Life
Micheal McConnellMicheal McConnell
Next Generation Leader at Young LifeNext Generation Leader at Young Life