With 34 years of experience, Melinda Cordero-Bárzaga has dedicated her career to advancing community health initiatives and elevating community voices. A founding member of Visión y Compromiso, Melinda played a key role in the establishment of the organization in 2000, initially serving as the Director of its California Network of Promotoras and Community Health Workers (CHWs).  

As the Associate Director of Programs, Melinda Cordero-Bárzaga plays a central role in driving the continued growth and strategic expansion of Visión y Compromiso.  She leads both state and national programmatic initiatives, overseeing key signature efforts such as the annual national conference, innovative workforce initiatives, the organization’s social enterprise, and the development of the Promotoras Institute. Melinda’s visionary leadership in growth management has been crucial in advancing the organization’s mission and broadening its impact across the nation. 

Throughout her career, Ms. Cordero-Bárzaga has been deeply committed to supporting women, girls, and promotoras. Her contributions have been recognized through numerous accolades, including the 1999 Los Angeles Women’s Foundation Mentor Award and the 2001 award from Comision Femenil de Los Angeles for her work with Latinas and health. In 2009, she was honored by the California Assembly for her impact on the Promotor movement in the state, and in 2011, she received the prestigious Helen Rodriguez-Trias Award from the California Office of Women’s Health in recognition of her dedication to improving women’s health across California. In June 2013, she was awarded the MENDing Poverty Nonprofit Leadership Award for her exemplary leadership in supporting Southern California communities living in poverty. 

Talks

• Workforce Session: Advancing Community Health Through Employment and Career Pathways