
Maryland Team
Senior Manager, Immigrant Integration Programs
PABLO BLANK
Program Coordinator
CATHRYN PAUL
My name is Fani Tenezaca, I immigrated to the United States from Ecuador. This is my 4th consecutive year serving as an Americorps Immigrants Integration specialist at CASA in Rockville. I have prepared applications for citizenship, renew GC, Financial Education; as well as teaching classes of citizenship, mentor; I have also collaborated in the VITA program. I feel very proud to be participating in this wonderful program because I have learned, I have shared my knowledge and we have grown together with the community. I love the Family, "CASA is my Family".
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Contact me at ftenezaca@wearecasa.org or 240-491-5774.
Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist
FANI TENEZACA
Hello! My name is Alberto Moncada! I immigrated to the United States in 2016 from Tegucigalpa, Honduras. This is my third year serving as an Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist at CASA in Rockville. I have prepared over 200 applications for citizenship and green card renewals, in addition to serving as a tax preparer with our VITA program. I have a passion for teaching, as I love to teach citizenship courses and work with CASA members one-on-one to ensure they pass their citizenship test and enjoy all the benefits of citizenship. I, myself, am a permanent resident and look forward to obtaining my citizenship next year! My other passion is my family. I have two wonderful sons, Jose Manuel and David Alejandro, and a beautiful wife, Ingrid. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, and watching soccer (Go Real Madrid!). Serving the community is a true honor for me and something that has helped me grow as a professional and as a person.
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Contact me at amoncada@wearecasa.org or 240-491-5774.
Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist
ALBERTO MONCADA
I’m Sandy, South American born and United States citizen. I came to North America twelve years ago with my two younger siblings. In our journey as a new immigrant home, we have had the blessing to meet wonderful friends. My family, that over the years has grown, is my most important priority and I’m extremely thankful for how much we’ve learned together.
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Because of my experience with the imply challenges of embracing a new language, culture, customs, traditions, economic structure, etc, I feel a strong connection with the community I serve. I’m grateful to be part of CASA’s citizenship team since I share their vision about aiming for excellency to accomplish our goals and contribute positively in people’s lives.
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Contact me at sehlers@wearecasa.org or 240-270-1317.
Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist
SANDY EHLERS
Hello Everyone! My name is Andrea Padilla and I was born and raised in Puerto Rico. My family and I moved to Maryland in August 2007 and have been here ever since. The desire to serve the community and assist in making change for the better is what motivated me to do AmeriCorps for the 2nd with CASA. During my first year as an AmeriCorps, I was able to serve over 200 members, not only with citizenship but also at our VITA Tax programs as a Site Coordinator.
The various situations and experiences that I was able to assist many immigrants, prompted in me the desire return to college to complete my degree in Legal Studies, and with an even higher goal of attending Law School and become a lawyer to be a voice for those that are struggling. AmeriCorps also allowed me to the opportunity to discover another of my other passions, which is teaching. I have had the opportunity to help community members learn and understand the basics of our government, our history and aid them in the successful passing of their citizenship exams. Being able to dedicate my time to serving my community and being a productive help for those that need our help has been a great experience!
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Contact me at apadilla@wearecasa.org or 240-491-5774.
Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist
ANDREA PADILLA
Ángela Sabogal Hoyos arrived to the United States in 2001 from Bogotá, Colombia. Angela is serving her fourth term as an AmeriCorps Immigrant Integration Specialist at CASA in Rockville, MD. Angela has served as a IRS certified tax preparer with CASA’s VITA Program for the last three years, helping hundreds of taxpayers.
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Mrs. Sabogal has also prepared over 450 naturalization applications and dozens of green card renewals and has provided interpretation services in USCIS for many of those applicants. Angela enjoys teaching citizenship classes and serving CASA members on individual basis to help them pass their citizenship interview and enjoy all the benefits of the American citizenship. Angela has two adorable sons, Jorge and Joaquín and a wonderful husband, Hernando. In her spare time, Angela enjoys sharing time with her family, fishing, listening to music, and swimming. Angela is very proud to serve the immigrant and latino community and positively impact their lives and well-being.
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Contact me at asabogal@wearecasa.org or 240-491-5765.
Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist
ANGELA SABOGAL
My name is Maria del Milagro Reyes and I am from Lima, Peru. Some years ago (November 17th, 2005, to be exact) I was lucky enough to win the green card lottery through my local embassy, and I was able to bring my husband and kids to live in the United States. Then in 2012 I was elated to become a US citizen, with some help from CASA. It was difficult but when I finally achieved citizenship, it was a blessing. Since that time, my husband and I have bought a house in Baltimore, and in November 2016 I began working here at CASA. I have been so proud to be part of the team helping CASA members, just like CASA helped me when I needed it. I’m currently working on my bachelor’s degree in business administration which I hope will further my career and allow me to be even more successful.
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Contact me at mreyes@wearecasa.org or 240-491-5774.
Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist
MARIA REYES
My name is David Montecinos Hidalgo. Native from Bolivia, I had the opportunity to study and travel to many different countries; I studied secondary school in Buenos Aires, Argentina, philosophy in Cordoba, Argentina, Theology in Cochabamba, Bolivia and Sociology in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in the United States, where I got my masters degree.
During my many years as social science professional, I have had the honor to serve society as a university professor, researcher and consultant. I have devoted over three decades of my life to education and social development. My expertise and accomplishments also allowed me the great privilege to serve in public office, specializing in rural development, evaluation and development of social projects including environmental and agricultural sustainability. My professional career culminated as the Deputy Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development for the country of Bolivia.
Since I came to United States five years ago from Bolivia, I have been involved in serving the community many ways, at St. Camillus Catholic Church, at different social institutions and at CASA as ITIN workshop volunteer and now as Americorps Immigration Integration Specialist for two years. This is my 3rd year in this position.
My family, the most important thing for me, is spread across the world. My wife Martha who lives with me, my daughter Silvia, with two kids, lives in Grenoble, France; my daughter Marcela, with two girls, in Fairfax, Virginia and my lovely son David Martin in Bolivia.
I love my service as an Americorps and it is my desire to continue to serve my fellow man and equip them for tomorrow.
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Contact me at dmontecinos@wearecasa.org or 240-270-1317.
Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist
DAVID MONTECINOS
I am a community outreach professional with 4 years of experience. A team player, highly trustworthy, detail oriented, resourceful, and willing to work hard, I bring my unique expertise in time management, budgeting, creativity, and customer service. I have the versatility to communicate with both young and older generations; thus, I can seamlessly serve as the middleman between the two.
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Currently, I serve as an AmeriCorps immigrant integration specialist at CASA where I facilitate and coordinates workshops and individualized coaching sessions focused on naturalization, financial literacy and economic development, and access to public benefits. Additionally, I teach and coordinates citizenship preparation courses, assist Legal Permanent Residents to complete the citizenship application form (N-400), conduct outreach activities to identify potential program participants and prepare taxes for program participants during the February/April tax season.
I was born and raised in Haiti for 17 years. Then, I moved to the United States in 2007. Prior to enrolling at UMUC, I have earned a Bachelor of art in sociology at the University of Maryland College Park. Becoming a CEO has always been my ultimate career goal. My future aspiration is to start my own Non-Profit organization to help and serve the Haitian-Americans community.
Aside from my Professional life, I am a Youth Leader and a Musician (Drummer).
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Contact me at yberluche@wearecasa.org or 240-670-4850.
Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist
YVEL BERLUCHE
Hello, my name is Yamilet Vivar. This is my second year serving as an Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist at CASA in Rockville. Although I was born in Maryland my parents immigrated to the United States from Mexico and have given me the knowledge to know what it is like for them and many others to come to this country and adapt to a different world. I have helped many apply and renew their ITIN and have been a volunteer with CASA since my sophomore year in high school. I have a deep love and appreciation for everyone that comes to CASA seeking help, support or motivation. We are all here to help you so please don't hesitate to ask us for help!
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Contact me at yvivar@wearecasa.org or 240-491-5774.
Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist
YAMILET VIVAR
Hi, call me May. I am the Immigration Integration Specialist here at CASA Rockville. This is my first year with Americorps. It’s Amazing how fast time goes when you are having fun!
A little bit about me: I earned my BA in English / TESOL and minor in psychology. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings and gained experience in the fields of hospitality, teaching, and entrepreneurship. It is my nature to care for others, helping to make their lives better and happier.
I only recently became interested in Immigration issues. There are many challenges for who try to become U.S. Citizens, so my goal here at Americorps is to help as many people as possible to access the resources that will benefit them on the road to become a citizen.
Outside of the office, I committed to furthering my studies. Right now, that’s anything and everything in tech! Additionally, besides being fluent in both Thai and English, I can write markup language and read scripting languages as well.
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Contact me at mhartman@wearecasa.org or 240-491-5774.
Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist
MAY HARTMAN
My name is Andrea Kim, and I was born and raised in Hawaii as a child of Korean immigrant parents. As I witnessed the trials that my parents faced in adjusting to American life, I wanted to serve immigrants so they may have the resources to thrive and diversify the stories in American society. I currently teach citizenship and financial literacy classes to those in Baltimore City and the greater Maryland community. I also take part in the administrative end of BCCC's Citizenship Preparation Program.
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I have always been involved in education: from tutoring children to working as a research assistant, my experiences in the field of education have given me a complex understanding of the barriers that people face in their educational journeys. Therefore, I am passionate about growing as a teacher and administrator, that I may better serve students of diverse backgrounds. When I am not working, I am usually cooking, reading or serving at my local church with my wonderful husband, Allen. I am committed to learning from my community through my time as an Americorps service member and am excited to grow both professionally and personally.
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Contact me at akim@wearecasa.org or 410-986-3213.
Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist
ANDREA KIM
Hello everyone out there! My name is Isis Benton and I moved to the United States when I was 13 years old. I am the mother of 3 athletic, smart, and handsome boys, and married to an active duty Air Force officer. I have lived in Germany, Japan, and various States of the nation moving around as a military spouse. However, Texas is where I call home.
I have done different volunteer jobs since I was in High School such as a clerk in the Laredo Medical Center in Texas, Key Spouse with the Air Force, and positions in the Latin American Clubs within the Air Force, and my current job with AmeriCorps. I love helping out people and AmeriCorps gave me a great opportunity. Helping and working with people gives me a sense of fulfillment. I have the privilege to do something for the people I call "paisanos & hermanos' (brothers). This is my first year with AmeriCorps and I work with people to fill out the applications to renew the permanent resident cards (I-90), U.S Citizenships (N-400), waivers, and others.
As a Psychology graduated from the University of Maryland University College and I learned so many ways to help out people and how a better place to practice with Americorps.
I am so excited to be here and help the community. So, please come and receive the benefits with CASA for the community.
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Contact me at ibenton@wearecasa.org or 240-491-5765.
Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist
ISIS BENTON
Hi, my name is Sam Haberman, and I was born and raised in Maryland. After studying political science and philosophy at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, I moved into Baltimore City where I have lived ever since. I spent some time after college as a touring musician, during which I was lucky enough to travel all over North America, Europe and Asia. After visiting Mexico City a few years ago I decided to start teaching myself Spanish (which is still a work in progress!) and have since traveled to Spain and Costa Rica. I only recently joined the team at CASA and became an Immigrant Integration Specialist, but I have already found it to be rewarding and fulfilling work, and I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve people from all parts of the world who have decided to make my home state their home.
Contact me at shaberman@wearecasa.org or 443-378-3442.
Americorps Immigrant Integration Specialist
SAM HABERMAN
Interested in becoming an Americorps member? Please contact Cathryn at cpaul@wearecasa.org.