Hi Reader,
Throughout the year, we’ve told you stories of how World Speaks impacts our community – what we do, who we work with, and what organizations are connecting with us to bring greater language access to our community. This month, we wanted to share with you how World Speaks impacts the staff & board of World Speaks.
We asked the World Speaks staff and board members to share what they are most thankful for regarding language access and their involvement with World Speaks.
What did we learn from their answers? Breaking down language barriers and valuing communications for all is a powerful mission – and one that we are all so proud to work together on.
“I’m thankful for the impact we’re having now, but I am also really excited about what the future of language access looks like in Omaha. I envision language access becoming interwoven within the fabric of our city – when folks come to our community, they'll be able to get themselves plugged in easier & faster. There are so many new things that we are going to be able to accomplish and places we can provide access to in ways that haven’t been done before – activities, meetings, sites, and museums. A collection of different things in our city become equally accessible to all in our community. So, I’m thankful for the past, but I’m equally excited and thankful for the future of language access.”- Leah Whitney Chaves, Executive Director
I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to make language accessibility a reality for our community through World Speaks. Each day, I witness how breaking down language barriers empowers individuals and opens doors to essential resources that often go untapped due to limited understanding. I’m deeply grateful for the partnerships we’ve built and for the trust our clients place in us. This work would not be possible without organizations that recognize and celebrate our linguistically diverse communities and the unique perspectives they bring. Through this work, I see firsthand how powerful it is to help people feel seen, heard, and understood, no matter the language they speak. – Arturo Aceves González, Language Accessibility Manager
I am deeply grateful to be part of an organization that aligns with my values, vision, and commitment to the community. It is an honor to contribute to meaningful projects that empower others and foster inclusivity. I am especially thankful for the opportunity to engage with community members, hear their powerful stories, and support them in their language journey. These experiences inspire me and strengthen my resolve to continue breaking down language barriers. I am also thankful to World Speaks for giving me the opportunity to help build a more unified community where everyone is respected, valued, and acknowledged. – Paulina Campos Guzman, Programs Manager
I am thankful for the opportunity to help others and contribute to improving language access in our community through our work. Being in partnership with so many individuals and organizations - all collaborating to create a collective impact - is a deeply rewarding experience. - Cruz Cabrera, Linguistic Coordinator
As a Board Member of World Speaks, I’m most thankful for the ways we’re bridging communication and building connections across diverse communities. I’m especially grateful to support our ESL classes and witness firsthand the impact language access has on empowering individuals. It’s inspiring to see doors open to new opportunities, understanding, and a greater sense of belonging. - Candy Zollicoffer, Board Member
I am thankful to have the opportunity to contribute to an organization that values all of the many languages and cultures of our local community. – Brian Torpy, Board Member
I'm thankful for World Speaks' work toward language access since language access allows people to communicate who might otherwise not get a chance to. – Hannah Michelle Bussa, Board Member
Being seen, heard, and understood is a gift, and we are so thankful every day that we can give that gift to others. For all of those who have supported us throughout the year—or who will support us in the days to come—we thank you for helping us make language access possible.
