Rita Mancera

Rita Mancera Hernandez, born in Mexico City and raised in Baja California Sur, began her non-profit journey in her teens, inspired by her parents’ values of education, hard work, and community involvement. Early experiences with the YMCA of Mexico and the Latin American and Caribbean Alliance of YMCAs exposed her to social justice issues and economic inequities across Latin America, while nearly 20 years in Pescadero deepened her understanding of immigration and the unique challenges of rural life on the South Coast.

Since joining Puente in 2006, Rita has advanced from home-visiting families to leading initiatives in immigration legal services, community building, adult education, and youth leadership and economic development. As Executive Director since January 2016, she collaborates with her dedicated team and board to shape the organization’s strategic vision and operational priorities. Her professional goals focus on expanding educational opportunities, cultivating local leadership, creating pathways to lasting economic and social well-being, and promoting affordable housing. Rita holds a master’s degree in Education from Universidad YMCA in Mexico City, is a fellow of the American Leadership Fellowship Education Class of XVIII, and volunteers on local boards and advisory councils in the Bay Area.