Valerie is a dynamic leader responsible for spearheading and overseeing a comprehensive fundraising program at Summer Search NYC. As a Latinx and first-gen student, she understands firsthand how critical it is for underprivileged youth to receive guidance and support as they navigate life’s complexities and plan for their future.

Prior to joining Summer Search, Valerie spent 12 years at The Lower Eastside Girls Club where she started as a member and worked her way up to becoming the Director of Development. Throughout her fundraising career, she has helped secure over $25 million in philanthropic investments from private foundations, government, corporate, and individual sources.

Valerie was born and raised in NYC’s Lower East Side neighborhood. She earned her Bachelor of Science from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Public Communications. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her loved ones, traveling, and taking Pilates classes.