08/28/2024
Meet OCHA’s newest Commissioner: Patricia Martinez!
Born and raised in Oregon, Patricia Martinez is a Mexican American Latina of Indigenous roots. Her parents immigrated to this country from Mexico City and Guanajuato. Patricia’s journey in the workforce began in the fields at age 7. She was given a glimpse of her parent’s efforts to sustain a life in the US and was driven by their work ethic and dreams to obtain a higher education and pursue a career.
Patricia was the first in her family to attend a university and in 2014, she graduated with a Master’s degree in Social Work with a Clinical focus. Throughout her career, Patricia has held positions supporting school districts to create mental health programs in rural communities focusing on BIPOC populations, implementation of trauma informed practices, organized and directed leadership and administration in the establishment of racial equity trainings, policies and regulations, all while gathering the voices of the students and families of the community to drive the work. In 2018, Patricia developed an equity curriculum which would give primarily BIPOC students, the opportunity to build community in a predominately white district, and lead racial equity work in their school, while receiving credit towards graduation. In 2019 she received her LCSW and continued to work independently.
Patricia is currently a clinical supervisor for MSW students, continues to provide mental health services, and is a crisis and trauma responder to several business establishments in Salem, Portland, Hillsboro, Eugene, Corvallis, Albany, and surrounding areas. Patricia also conducts mental health and equity consultation to leadership and Human Resources in many of these establishments.
Although Patricia’s professional title is Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Patricia views herself as a “light worker”. Where she spreads light in various spaces and has the opportunity to be a reflection to others and support the discovery of their inner light; a light that has been dimmed for some time.
We’re thrilled to have you onboard, Patricia.
