Today we’d like to introduce you to Tina Padilla
Hi Tina, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I am a system impacted woman who grew up in an area where gang joining and funerals became traditions. I realized that the pipe line to prison was very much a real thing in my neighborhood. I wanted to be able to help those that may be going thru similar situations that I went thru. I did not have the proper resources because there were none. I decided to start my community based organization in order to help the community to have resources and choices that I never had.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It most definitely was not a smooth action. The field of community violence intervention at one time was a male dominated field. Many times woman were left out of the conversations. Also being a single full time student and mother and also working full time can take its toll on a person mentally and physically. The amount of violence and loss of life we see also takes a toll on us a human beings and sometimes having no breaks because violence never takes a break can lead to many health issues, if not delt with.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Community Violence Interventionist /Peacekeeper
I have lived experience and I have a license to operate in my community of Northeast Los Angeles. I can go into a community without a gun or a badge and calm community tensions. I provide resources and opportunities to those in the community with a checkered past who are looking to change their lives.
I provide mentoring a positive life choices in order for change in life.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My Children played a huge role in my change and the work I do, I did not want my children to have to go thru the struggles I had as a child and I wanted to be that person to be the negative cycle breaker in my family so that my children and their children will never have to know what its like being a gang member.
My staff also who always have my back are an extension of my family because working in this field we need to be able to trust one another and feel safe while out in the field.
My partner as well because the work I do is a 24/7 job and the fact that I have a partner who understands that is invaluable.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cw4peace.org
- Instagram: cw4peace_ne
Image Credits
Louie Mora-Photographer
