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In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region is celebrating community leaders who embrace their heritage and culture through service. Diana Pineda Ramirez, Executive Director of the San Gabriel Pomona Valley Chapter, exemplifies this spirit in her work and leadership.

Born and raised in South Central Los Angeles, Diana has always taken great pride in her city and the community she grew up in. A bilingual Latina who attended predominantly Black and Brown schools, Diana’s upbringing shaped her deep commitment to service and representation.

From an early age, Diana was inspired by her mother’s dedication to community work. Her mother volunteered with organizations, campaigns and church events, always finding ways to bring people together. Diana recalls watching her mother’s efforts and knowing she, too, wanted to give back.

Diana’s journey with the Red Cross began in 2019 in the Greater Long Beach and South Bay communities. As an Angeleno and Latina, she felt it was important to be both a face of and for her community. She quickly saw the power of the Red Cross mission but also noticed areas of improvement, particularly the lack of Spanish-speaking volunteers and translated blood drive information. Acknowledging LA’s diversity, she believed every Angeleno should have equal access to services, no matter the language they speak.

To bridge this gap, Diana organized a blood drive at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in South Central LA, which serves more than 3,000 members. Recognizing the close ties between Latin American culture and faith communities, she created a space that felt culturally rooted and welcoming.

With strong support from the congregation, its youth group and local hospitals, the event gave Latino families the opportunity to contribute meaningfully while directly supporting lifesaving care. What made the event most memorable for Diana were the youth volunteers. Their enthusiasm, leadership and willingness to step up alongside her left a lasting impression. She treasures the moment when she saw young people from her own community take ownership of service.

Since that blood drive, Diana has seen the Red Cross strengthen its inclusion efforts. More Spanish-speaking volunteers are active and language accessibility has grown at events. For Diana, this progress is vital. 

“I am proud of the Red Cross,” Diana says. “Their mission to serve is done with passion and the organization is committed to serving all communities.”

When asked what she is most proud of, Diana points to her ability to amplify the Red Cross mission and introduce youth in her community to the importance of giving back. She also strives to ensure that Red Cross programs reflect the communities they serve. Looking forward, she hopes to see more Hispanics and Latinos active in humanitarian work.”