From the Bronx to Community Advocate | Kelly Santos on Family, Resilience, and Fighting for Children

In this thoughtful and deeply personal episode of the ASQ Podcast, Dr. Jessie sits down with Kelly Santos — nonprofit leader, community advocate, and proud daughter of Dominican immigrants whose life has been shaped by resilience, family, and a deep commitment to helping others. Born in Manhattan’s Lower East Side and raised in the Bronx, Kelly reflects on growing up in a close-knit Dominican household where discipline, community, and family responsibility were part of everyday life. Her parents immigrated to the United States with big dreams and limited resources, working tirelessly to build stability for their family. From an early age, Kelly witnessed the power of sacrifice, determination, and resourcefulness — lessons that would shape the path she chose later in life. But Kelly’s childhood also included an experience that would profoundly influence her future. She opens up about: • Growing up in a working-class Dominican family in the Bronx • Being raised by protective and deeply involved immigrant parents • Translating for her parents in schools and medical systems as a child • Watching her parents advocate for children with complex needs • Learning resilience, empathy, and resourcefulness early in life These early experiences planted the seeds for Kelly’s lifelong passion for service. She went on to study sociology, Latin American and Caribbean studies, and women’s and gender studies — exploring identity, migration, and the often overlooked roles women play in shaping communities. This episode explores: • How immigrant families pass down resilience across generations • The power of curiosity and lifelong learning • The role of community programs in supporting youth and families • Why advocacy is critical within complex systems • How personal experiences shape a life of service After graduate school, Kelly began working in nonprofit youth programs across New York City, supporting students, mentoring families, and helping bring vital resources into schools. Today, she continues her work connecting families and communities with the resources and support they need to thrive. This episode is for anyone who: • Grew up in an immigrant or multicultural household • Has had to advocate for a child or family member • Is navigating parenting challenges or developmental diagnoses • Believes in the power of community support • Wants to create meaningful impact through service Kelly’s story is a reminder that advocacy often begins at home — and that even in difficult moments, there is always an opportunity to grow, learn, and support others. Her philosophy is simple: Ask questions. Find your people. And never be afraid to ask for help. #ASQPodcast #CommunityLeadership #ImmigrantStories #Advocacy #AutismAwareness #NonprofitLeadership #Resilience #FamilySupport