Natasha Cruz
Escondido,CA
Summary
Mission-driven professional with a proven track record in program implementation, workforce development, and stakeholder relationship management. Skilled in leading cross-functional teams, fostering community partnerships, and mentoring individuals to achieve their goals. Bilingual in Spanish and English. Passionate about delivering impactful programs that empower individuals and strengthen communities.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Program Lead
San Diego Workforce Partnership
San Diego, California
01.2022 - Current
- Lead the development of the Substance Use Counselor Training Program, including processes, manuals, and strategic plans, resulting in the successful enrollment of 125 participants in the first year and a half
- Develop and maintain relationships with training providers, employers, and state funders.
- Direct execution of $5 million grant initiative by creating comprehensive project plan.
- Lead and organized work for Program Specialist II, maintaining focus on project objectives.
- Collaborate with Marketing and Communications to complete website updates, create applications, and finalize participants.
- Track grant metrics, develop reports, and monitor participant progress using Salesforce.
Development Specialist II
Riverside County Workforce Development Center
Riverside, California
12.2020 - 12.2021
- Conducted workforce preparation training sessions, and enhanced job readiness and employment prospects for 108 participants
- Conducted screenings, assessments, and program placement for workforce applicants
- Coordinated supportive services and referrals to additional training and employment resources
- Established and maintained relationships with community organizations to enhance client success
- Created new program opportunities
Youth and Family Counselor
Washington County Youth Services Bureau/ Boys and Girls Club
Montpelier, Vermont
02.2020 - 08.2020
- Provided individual and family counseling services for individuals experiencing housing insecurity and runaway youth
- Updated the electronic medical system with client information and progress notes
- Responsible for maintaining client record
- Provided trauma-informed service to crisis hotline callers
HR Coordinator (Temp)
Uncommon Schools
New York, NY
04.2019 - 08.2019
- Facilitated onboarding processes, recruitment, and compliance in HR settings at St
- Michael's College and Uncommon Schools
- Delivered bilingual, trauma-focused therapeutic services in collaboration with law enforcement and interdisciplinary teams at Safe Horizon
- Provided mandated reporting training and bilingual therapeutic support to survivors of domestic violence through Family Service Association and affiliated organizations
Education
Master of Science - Marital And Family Therapy
Loma Linda University
Escondido, CA12-2014
Skills
Stakeholder Communication and Management
Relationship building
Mission Driven Leadership
Program Implementation
Project Management
Mentoring and Training
Cross-functional Team Collaboration
Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace tools
Bilingual in Spanish and English
Other experiences
Held various clinical roles, providing trauma-focused therapeutic services in collaboration with law enforcement, the District Attorney’s office, and interdisciplinary teams. Delivered mandated reporting training throughout the Riverside County. Provided bilingual therapeutic support to survivors of Domestic Violence through Family Service Association and affiliated organizations, helping individuals navigate complex challenges.
Volunteer Work
Mentor, MANA De San Diego, August 2024 to Present
- Provide mentorship and guidance to an 8th-grade student, focusing on academic, personal, and athletic development
- Assist with goal-setting and fostering a growth mindset in the areas of soccer and future aspirations.
- Serve as a positive role model by emphasizing perseverance, responsibility, and teamwork
Websites
Timeline
Program Lead
San Diego Workforce Partnership
01.2022 - Current
Development Specialist II
Riverside County Workforce Development Center
12.2020 - 12.2021
Youth and Family Counselor
Washington County Youth Services Bureau/ Boys and Girls Club
02.2020 - 08.2020
HR Coordinator (Temp)
Uncommon Schools
04.2019 - 08.2019
Master of Science - Marital And Family Therapy
Loma Linda University