Janette Perez, MSW, CGS, Latina, and a mother of 3.
"It is hard being a person of color and noticing, while seeking resources within my community, the information/service provided to me was given to me by someone who didn't look like me. Becoming a parent helped me realize I had a voice, that I could be a part of the change I sought from services within my community and those providing them."
This passion motivated Janette Perez to attend graduate school, finish her Master’s in Social Work, and obtain a graduate certificate with a focus in Youth and Adolescent trauma from Rhode Island College (RIC) in 2018.
She continues to help the youth in her community. Janette, a community advocate, innovator, and clinician supporting students in schools, has served countless roles. As a parent representative, Janette collaborated with SPHERE at RIC and researchers from CYCLE at Roger Williams University on a research study about ways to measure equity in Providence Public Schools. She is an alum from the Parent Leadership Training Initiative (PLTI 2020), a current PAC member (Elementary ed leader) for Providence Public Schools, member of the Parents Leading for Educational Equity (PLEE), member of the RI Medicaid Medical Care Advisory Committee (CAC), and many more!
Janette has also provided support to countless campaigns by EPI, including our increase the Rhode Island EITC campaign, promoted the importance of Medicaid and quality access for low-income families in RI, and advocated for college students to access Child Care Assistance.
Janette hopes to start her own consulting business supporting non-profits and other outreach organizations by providing her expertise in trauma, self-care, and balancing schoolwork and family.