Jennaliz Blanco

Advocate

email: jennaliz@teensuccess.org

Jennaliz joined the Teen Success, Inc. team in December 2021. She was born and raised in Monterey County, California. Throughout her life she has been passionate about helping others. Having overcome adverse life events, she learned that she wanted to advocate for children so that they can become resilient.

She completed her internship at Fresh Lifelines for Youth, an organization that serves youth in the juvenile justice system. She became a mentor and began to learn the fundamentals of case management. Jennaliz had an eye opening experience serving as a volunteer to teach English in Peru, as well as spending time helping at an orphanage for children with special needs. 

As a former, preschool teacher, Jennaliz cultivated relationships with her students and their families. She is still connected with some of her students and has continues to be a support in and outside of the classroom. Her priority is establishing rapport with people, and fostering meaningful relationships in her life.

Jennaliz embarked on her journey in the non-profit sector to fulfill her goals of direct service and helping the community. She spent several years working as a case manager for homeless transitional age youth. During her time as a case manager, she was able to facilitate their organization's maternity group home and work closely with pregnant young mothers and their babies. This is where Jennaliz found her passion advocating for resilient young women in our community.

Jennaliz has a Bachelor’s degree in Child and Adolescent Development with an emphasis in Community from San Jose State University. She aims to get a Master's degree to continue to learn and grow, and thus be better equipped to help her community.

In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, eating and being physically active. She loves adventures that spike the adrenalin, including sky diving. She is passionate about dance, working out, and loves fashion. You’ll always find her taking pictures of her food or her outfit!