Meet the team: Irene Ochoa

Meet Irene Ochoa, Senior Family Advocate 

Where are you from?

I’m from Chihuahua, Mexico.

Where do you feel most at home? 

I feel at home in Minnesota where my family is. Three of my children and grandchildren are here. I also feel at home in Chihuahua because my oldest, my father and other relatives live there.

What are your areas of expertise or what areas are particularly interesting to you? 

My experience is interacting directly with participants and that is the area that interests me.

Share one thing you have learned, big or small, doing your work over the past year? 

That life is uncertain. I never thought I would need to work from home and it has been a big challenge.

Who inspires you? 

My family, Lupe Serrano (one of the founder’s of Esperanza United), my co-workers, and the shelter participants inspire me. 

What do you do to relax, de-stress or recharge your batteries?

I go to mass every day to start the day well and relax.

Why have you chosen to do this kind of work? 

I went through a situation of abuse for many years so I wanted to give help like I received.

What is your favorite food?

Mexican food of course – the stuffed chiles.

What is your favorite book?

The truth is that I don’t read much.