Meet our amazing Community Outreach Intern: Naphtali Garcia Arana!
Community engagement and activism play a vital role in shaping the future of our environment and society. One remarkable individual who has truly exemplified the power of grassroots efforts and community involvement is Naphtali Garcia Arana, a dedicated community outreach intern at HEAL Utah. Her exceptional contributions to coordinating this year’s Latino Conservation Week Fair, raising awareness about air quality issues, addressing I-15 concerns, and promoting a healthier Utah have left an indelible mark on her community. As Naphtali prepares to embark on a new journey in Washington D.C., let’s take a moment to appreciate her outstanding work, as well as the invaluable support of her family.
Naphtali’s passion for environmental justice and community empowerment has been the driving force behind her impactful work at HEAL Utah. As a community outreach intern, she has tirelessly worked to bridge the gap between important issues and the residents of Utah. One of her most notable achievements was the coordination of this year’s Latino Conservation Week Fair—an event that celebrated the rich natural heritage of Utah and engaged the Latino community in discussions about conservation.
Meet Naphtalie
Meet Naphtali, a first-generation Nicaraguan student at the University of Utah. She is currently pursuing a degree in Political Science and Ethnic Studies, with a keen interest in the relationship between public policy and the Latine community in the United States. Naphtali moved to the Salt Lake Valley from the East coast.
This Fall 2023 semester, Naphtali is interning with the office of Rep. Andrea Salinas (OR-6), a privilege that she hopes will pave the way for her to pursue a career in public service or non-profit political advocacy. Naphtali is excited to apply the knowledge she gained about environmental justice and sustainability at HEAL Utah to her internship on Capitol Hill.
When she’s not busy with her studies or internship, Naphtali loves to attend concerts (her favorite by far was Bad Bunny!), travel, go out dancing, and hike.
How Naphtali supported our team.
Air Quality Advocacy:
Through her outreach initiatives, she has educated individuals about the health risks associated with poor air quality and has encouraged them to take action to improve the air they breathe. Her dedication to promoting cleaner air for all demonstrates her commitment to a healthier and more sustainable future.
Empowering Change-Makers:
One of Naphtali’s remarkable accomplishments lies in her ability to empower individuals to take action on matters that affect their lives directly. Her outreach in the community regarding I-15 issues, a major transportation corridor, has informed residents about the potential environmental and health impacts. By providing the tools and knowledge needed to advocate for positive change, Naphtali has empowered the community to engage in meaningful dialogue with policymakers and drive improvements.
A Family’s Heartfelt Support:
Behind every exceptional individual, there is often a network of support that fuels their aspirations. Naphtali’s family has been an unwavering source of encouragement, dedicating their time and effort to further the causes she is passionate about. Their collective commitment to community service has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in Naphtali’s success and impact.
Thank you!
Naphtali’s journey as a community outreach intern at HEAL Utah serves as a shining example of how a single individual’s passion and dedication can create a ripple effect of positive change. Her work in coordinating the Latino Conservation Week Fair, addressing air quality concerns, advocating for I-15 improvements, and promoting a healthier Utah has made a tangible difference in her community. As she embarks on her new chapter in Washington D.C., the impact of her work will undoubtedly continue to resonate, inspiring others to take action and make a difference in their own communities.
Internships at HEAL
Discover opportunities to learn and grow through HEAL Utah’s internship program by visiting healutah.org/careers. Unleash your potential while contributing to vital environmental and community efforts.