Superwoman with a Big Heart

Hannah Cardenas, an NDMV member at Homeboy Industries, is a powerful force for change. Recognizing a need in the community, she developed a digital literacy program and curriculum. Her offerings include a class titled "Unlock Your Digital Potential," along with other sessions focused on typing skills and professionalism.

Hannah Cardenas, an NDMV member at Homeboy Industries

Homeboy Industries is a nonprofit organization that provides hope, training, and support to individuals who are formerly gang-involved or previously incarcerated, helping them redirect their lives and become contributing members of the community.

Hannah has served at Homeboy Industries for over a year. She teaches computer skills, delivers technology news and information, provides one-on-one tech support, and imparts essential skills to help individuals apply for jobs. Hannah supports trainees in these programs and offers open services and classes for anyone in the community. Through her efforts, she assists over 200 people each week.

Vincent, one of Hannah's students, expressed, "Hannah is the key to everything. I started coming to Homeboy Industries in 2001 and just kept coming back. Since Hannah started here, her classes have helped me secure various jobs; she taught me how to type and ultimately how to structure my resume. When Hannah attended the Midyear event, we felt lost without her. When she returned, there was a line at her door. This new educational opportunity has been a real gift to the community."

Greg, a trainee whom Hannah has supported since her arrival at the organization, emphasized the urgency of her work: "She keeps us safe in this fast-changing digital world." He elaborated on the many services included in her digital literacy program, stating, "Hannah empowers us, teaches us to be open-minded, encourages us to believe in ourselves, enhances our knowledge, and treats people how she would like to be treated. Everyone is great, but no one is like Hannah. She's a woman with a big heart."

Hannah profoundly impacts the community. She is incredibly kind and caring toward anyone who enters her doors. Her dedication inspires those she serves to strive for their best. As she walks through the halls of Homeboy Industries, community members often approach her with gratitude, saying, "You helped me get this job." It's evident that their success fuels her passion for her work.