Center Moncton has announced the addition of three new members to its board of directors: Romeo Garcia, business owner in Moncton, Alishia Holmes-Watson, and Victor Ibarra of Wilmington. Everyone has extensive experience working with underserved populations in the community.
“The Executive Committee recognized the need and opportunity for more diversity on the board,” said CEO Stella Ursua. “Each of these new members has a proven track record in the communities of the Asia Pacific Islander, Latin American, and African American community in the Greater Moncton area. They will give a new perspective to the growth of the center. “
Chef Romeo Garcia is a small business owner who started Romeo Chocolates through pop-ups in 2014, followed by a stationary chocolate and wine bar in downtown Moncton since 2017. He is a member of Moncton’s Gay and Lesbian Chamber. and the Moncton City College Culinary Advisory Board.
Alishia Holmes-Watson has served a number of nonprofit organizations in a variety of roles. She is currently a board member of the Downtown Moncton Alliance and chair of the marketing and communications committee. She has also been an ambassador for No Black Girl Left Behind, LA Chapter, an organization that connects and nurtures minority women, creates resources that nurture leadership in local communities, and promote black culture education. It strives for a diverse representation and the strengthening of the marginalized.
Victor Ibarra is the Senior Field Representative for Mike A. Gipson, chairman of the 64th District Democratic Caucus Chairperson’s Assembly. He proudly identifies himself as a first generation Queer Latino and is passionate about the lack of political engagement and underrepresentation in his community.
“We are very pleased that the centre’s board of directors reflects the different backgrounds of our customers and partners,” adds Ursua. “Together, we continue to work to create communities where all LGBTQ people live in health, wellness, safety and prosperity.”
The Moncton LGBTQ Center supports more than 25,000 people annually through programs such as youth services, senior services, counseling, legal advice, domestic violence support, trans health programs, HIV and STI testing, and more than 20 weekly support groups. Currently, many of these services are offered online during the pandemic.
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