National Hispanic/Latinx Heritage month is a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions, diverse cultures and the extensive histories of the Hispanic/Latinx community. At the Y, we believe our communities are stronger when everyone feels welcome and we work together for the common good. This month, we're celebrating our staff and the impact they have made on our community.
Cesareo Gomez | Joe and Mary Mottino Family YMCA
Cesareo Gomez has served as a Health and Wellness Coach at the Joe and Mary Mottino Family YMCA for 22 years. He believes everyone who enters the Fitness Center has the potential to become an athlete. By guiding members through equipment orientations and training, Cesareo focuses on “life training,” offering support to help members reach their goals, promote wellness, and foster positivity.
“The best part of my job is empowering people to realize their potential,” he says. “It’s not just about strength or size—it’s about building confidence.”
For Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month, Cesareo highlights unity, noting, “No matter our skin tone or background, we are one community.” Born in Mexico and raised in the U.S., he’s proud to be a first-generation American and excited about the growth and representation of the Latin community.
Gianncarlo Downing | Border View Family YMCA
With nearly 10 years at the Y, Gianncarlo Downing serves as the Member Services Supervisor at the Border View Family YMCA. In this role, he engages with the community, connecting people from all walks of life to the wide range of opportunities the Y offers.
One of the most rewarding aspects of his job is hearing stories of how the Y has positively impacted members' lives. "Knowing I've contributed to that impact is one of my favorite things," Gianncarlo shares.
As Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month is celebrated, Gianncarlo encourages the community to explore how Hispanic and Latino cultures have shaped society through food, music, art, and more. Reflecting on his heritage, he expresses pride in knowing his roots and the progress his family and culture have made in this country.
Sarai Salamanca | THQ
Sarai Salamanca has been with the YMCA for 15 years, serving as the Certification Facilitator. She’s known for leading engaging CPR/AED and First Aid classes, which many describe as fun and enjoyable. One of her favorite aspects of her job is connecting with staff across the association, welcoming new hires, and witnessing their growth as they gain confidence to respond to emergencies.
Sarai is deeply proud of her Mexican heritage. She highlights the rich traditions, vibrant music, and welcoming culture of “mi querido Mexico.” She admires leaders like Andrés Manuel López Obrador and Mexico’s first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, for breaking barriers and inspiring progress. Sarai celebrates her heritage’s values of hard work and resilience and takes pride in representing her community.
Adrian Araiza | Copley-Price Family YMCA
Adrian Araiza has been with the YMCA for seven years and currently serves as the Camp and Sports Director at the Copley-Price Family YMCA. His favorite part of the job is seeing families enjoy the programs and activities the Y offers.
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Adrian emphasizes the importance of honoring the diverse Latin American cultures, each with its unique traditions, foods, and music.
Adrian takes great pride in the influence of Mexican culture on the city of San Diego. From the names of cities and streets to vibrant murals and cultural celebrations, he is proud of the rich heritage that shapes the community.
Anay Weiser-Barajas | Copley-Price Family YMCA
Anay Weiser-Barajas has been with the YMCA for nearly 10 years and currently serves as the Coordinator for the Infant/Toddler/Preschool program at the Copley-Price Family YMCA. She oversees the daily operations, providing support for teachers, managing schedules, and offering resources to families. Anay is also involved in planning the school year to continuously enhance the learning environment for the children.
Her favorite part of the job is walking into classrooms to see the teachers engaging with the children, and she enjoys problem-solving to support staff, children, and families.
In recognition of Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month, Anay encourages the community to listen to the stories of Latinas, emphasizing that everyone has a unique story. She believes this is an opportunity to break down stereotypes and better understand the diverse experiences of Latinas.
Anay takes pride in how her family has maintained a strong connection with their roots in Mexico, even after emigrating to the U.S. Despite the distance, they have stayed close through virtual hangouts, preserving their Mexican values while embracing American culture.
Miriam Martinez | South Bay Family YMCA
Miriam Martinez serves as the Department Head for Child Youth Development at the South Bay Family YMCA. In her role, she focuses on developing young leaders and creating programs that address the needs of the community.
Her favorite part of the job is helping those in need and making a meaningful impact on the lives of families and children.
During Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month, Miriam highlights the significant contributions of Latinos in the community, emphasizing their role in shaping and supporting local culture. She takes pride in her heritage, reflecting on the strong sense of unity and care that defines her background, where people come together to support one another.