We sat down with Yarikza "Yari" Santiago, a caseworker in our Erie Family Group Decision Making (FGDM) Program. In celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month, allow us to share some of her story and insights.
Where were you born and where have you lived?
I lived in East Chicago, IN from birth until after college, then I moved to Hammond, IN and lived there until 2019 when I moved to Erie, PA.
What can you share about your cultural identity?
I am Puerto Rican and was raised in a very traditional household. My Parents are both from the island and came to the states in the 70's. We mainly spoke Spanish in our household. My mother cooked traditional Puerto Rican meals. They mainly consisted of things like different types of ways of preparing rice and beans and having different meats with it. Some of our most popular dishes are Puerto Rican Rice (is a yellow rice with pigeon peas cooked in it), roasted pork (we call it Lechon), pastelles (similar to tamales, but made with root vegetables), and empanadas.
Tell us about your family and important family traditions, celebrations or rituals.
I grew up in a community with a large population of Puerto Ricans and my family belonged to a club for Puerto Ricans. I learned to dance very early in life and was part of a dance group until I left for college. We celebrate all holidays with the other families in this club, so I never knew what it was like to celebrate holidays with only your family. We celebrated at large club with all the families, everyone cooked food, brought gifts for children, and we even had live bands for entertainment. It was like having a super huge family and I loved it.
Tell us about your education.
I attended the only high school in East Chicago, IN – East Chicago Central High School. I graduated in the top 10% of my class. I attended DePauw University, a private liberal arts school in Greencastle, IN, and earned a bachelor's degree in psychology.
Have you faced any obstacles? And how did you overcome them?
I have faced several challenges in my life. I have always had the support of my family to get through those times. Whether it was a bad work situation or deciding I wanted more out of my career, they have always been a great support. Sylvester, my partner, has always been a person I can lean on, especially when I went through postpartum depression after having our twin sons.
What inspired you or why did you decide to pursue social services?
When I took my first psychology class in college, I immediately fell in love with the subject. I have always wanted to help others. I love seeing people reach their true potential in life.
What jobs have you held?
In high school and summers home from college I was a lifeguard at our local pools. My first job after college was a dispatcher for 911 in East Chicago, I then worked as a Mental Health Professional in Chicago, Il for several years, came back to work in Indiana as a supervisor of a group home, and then worked a Social Services Worker for clinic in East Chicago. After that I worked for an agency similar to Family Services in Indiana as a caseworker, which entailed doing about all the departments at FSNWPA in one role. I am now a Family Group Decision Making (FGDM) coordinator.
What is your perspective as a Hispanic social worker?
As a first-generation Latino in the US, I still remember my parents at times struggling to communicate or understand when it came to doctor's appointment or meeting with teachers. This has made me more aware of people's struggle when it comes to communicating. I also want to ensure that family traditions and beliefs are respected.
What does National Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
It is a time of year where I can celebrate my people and my culture. It is a time of year where I can myself learn more about Latinos that have made great achievements in our community. It is a time to celebrate and honor those that have come before me.
What do you like best about working in FGDM at FSNWPA?
I love working in FGDM. I truly feel this was my calling. I am a person that has always loved helping people and, in this role, I also get to bring together different supports and providers to assist these families. I feel like this starts families on a more positive track. They are able to get the help they need and be connected to resources from the very beginning of their involvement with OCY.
Who are your role models?
One of my greatest role models is first - my parents. I feel they instilled in me a very good work ethic. I am also a huge fan of Sandra Cisneros (author). My favorite book by her is House On Mango Street. Celia Cruz is a Cuban salsa singer; her life has been an inspiration to me. She did not let her struggles stop her. I have way too many role models to list them all.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I spend time with family. Even if it is just going to stores to shop, I try to spend as much time as possible with Sylvester and our sons. I also love to read, watch movies, and find fun activities around Erie to participate in.
What are your major achievements?
I am the first person in my family to attend and graduate college, becoming a mother, being in a loving and committed relationship for 22 years, working in the social services field.
Yari shared this quote, one of her personal favorites.
"We must use our lives to make the world a better place to live, not just to acquire things. That is what we are put on the earth for."
– Dolores Huerta
Yarikza has been employed at Family Services of NW PA since July of 2019. She has a special interest in Trauma-Informed Care and serves on the agency SEEDS team.
