08/31/2026
Meet our Welcoming Center Team!
For many individuals and families who walk through our doors, knowing where to turn for help can be the first challenge. Our Welcoming Center Team is here to listen, understand each person's unique circumstances, and help connect them with the information, resources, and support they need to move forward.
As part of Illinois' network of Welcoming Centers, our team helps individuals and families navigate a wide range of needs and challenges. Led by Welcoming Center Team Manager Ginna Larrota, the team currently includes Welcoming Center Caseworkers Tania Perez and Dilan Garcia. We also recognize Arlynn Lopez and Gloria Sanchez for their contributions as Welcoming Center Caseworkers before recently transitioning into their new roles as Outreach Manager and Lead Program Assistant, respectively.
For Ginna and her team, helping someone begins with making sure they know they do not have to navigate their challenges alone.
"When someone walks into the Welcome Center feeling overwhelmed or unsure of where to start, our first step is to listen and understand their needs. We take the time to make them feel welcome and comfortable, then we help identify their most immediate concerns and connect them with the appropriate resources or services. As a team, we work together to make sure no one feels like they have to figure everything out on their own."
Every day, our Welcoming Center Team hears the stories of community members facing difficult circumstances and major hardships. While there may not always be an immediate solution to every challenge, the team remains committed to helping each person identify a path forward.
"Seeing that person leave with a clear plan, feeling supported and knowing where to go next, reminds us why our work is so important. Even when we cannot solve everything, helping someone take that first step is a success for us."
We are grateful for the compassion, patience, and dedication our Welcoming Center Team brings to every person they serve. Through their work, they continue to ensure that those who come to Centro looking for answers can leave feeling supported, informed, and empowered to take their next step.
