Karina Casarez Email & Phone Number

New York, United States

[Formerly Senior Support Specialist]I am an accomplished professional with extensive experience in contract management, operational efficiency, and organizational development. At KPFP, I have drafted and managed numerous grant contracts, ensuring compliance with diverse obligations and timelines. Through effective scoping, planning, and implementation, I have overseen nearly 15 contracts, maintaining rigorous monitoring and reporting standards throughout. My expertise extends to developing streamlined systems and processes that enhance operational efficiency and uphold strict deadlines. Additionally, I excel in creating comprehensive job descriptions, facilitating recruitment processes, and supporting onboarding activities. I am skilled in developing and implementing monitoring & evaluation plans, conducting data analysis, and integrating lessons learned into organizational strategies. As a key member of KPFP, I have also played a pivotal role in financial oversight, budget management, and grant application processes, contributing to organizational stability and sustainability.

I have contributed significantly to community service and social needs projects, focusing on critical topics such as health and wellness, financial stability, quality of life, and education. Through my involvement, I have enhanced the visibility and comprehension of the Organization's initiatives across Kings County. This was achieved by designing impactful digital and print media projects encompassing social media images, toolkits, flyers, website design, logos, newsletters, and more. These efforts have effectively communicated the Organization's mission and projects, engaging and informing the local community to promote positive social change and support essential community services.

Kings County, California, United States

[Formerly Office Administrator]I excelled in communication and stakeholder engagement by maintaining an engaged community through weekly email updates using MailChimp, ensuring stakeholders were consistently informed of developments. Acting as a central point of contact, I adeptly interacted with the organization, coalition partners, and community members, providing timely information, resolving inquiries, and offering responsive support. I demonstrated a deep understanding of the Coalition's needs, cultivating positive relationships with agencies, organizations, businesses, and community partners, resulting in increased funding opportunities. In project management and reporting, I led the generation, maintenance, and management of critical reports, proposals, and presentations, ensuring meticulous documentation of program activities and enhancing organizational transparency. I also facilitated organizational management by overseeing files, data entry, and operational efficiency, leading various initiatives including project concept notes, proposals, and implementation oversight from inception to completion. Furthermore, in event management and implementation, I conceptualized, designed, and executed impactful weekly, monthly, and annual events, accommodating up to 100 participants, fostering meaningful engagement, and reinforcing program objectives.

As a dedicated member of the NYCPCA Board of Directors, I fulfill a multifaceted role that includes meticulous management of the organization's financial operations. This encompasses maintaining accurate financial records, handling deposits, drafts, and checks, as well as disbursing funds and issuing payments in accordance with organizational policies. I am committed to transparency and accountability, providing detailed accounts of all transactions and overseeing annual tax reporting processes. I ensure financial stability and support strategic initiatives that advance the NYCPCA's mission and objectives.

New York, United States

I am privileged to hold a United Nations badge as an organization representative with Consultative Status with ECOSOC, a position that allows me to actively participate in UN headquarters' events. Engaging in civil society side events and meetings hosted by permanent missions, I contribute significantly to bolstering NPCA's global presence and influence. Additionally, I provide NPCA with detailed event summaries that comprehensively capture discussions, outcomes, potential future directions, and actionable recommendations. Moreover, I prepare statements for official ECOSOC meetings, advocating passionately for NPCA causes and advancing our organizational objectives on an international platform. These responsibilities reflect my dedication to leveraging UN platforms effectively for impactful advocacy and global outreach.

I undertook a variety of responsibilities that highlight my expertise in research, strategic collaboration, and program support within international contexts. Collaborating closely with the International Justice Program (IJP) Officer and Civil Society Program (CSP), I meticulously mapped and researched over 70 civil society organizations in Myanmar, identifying key actors in accountability, documentation, investigation, and transitional justice efforts. Additionally, I researched and identified more than 50 organizations engaged in digital investigations, significantly supporting JRR's strategic objectives and fundraising efforts under the guidance of the Executive Director. I also contributed to vetting potential partners for Ukraine, Colombia, and Iraq, conducting thorough desk reviews, contextual research, and stakeholder outreach to ensure alignment with JRR's mission. Utilizing the Salesforce platform, I compiled lists of prospective experts and updated records on CSP inquiries and deployments to streamline processes and facilitate effective decision-making. Moreover, I monitored and reported on news, events, and trends relevant to civil society-led justice efforts, providing critical insights into project outcomes and impacts. I further supported knowledge-sharing by attending webinars and events related to R2P, accountability in Ukraine, victim-centered transitional justice efforts, and other pertinent topics, producing detailed meeting notes to inform strategic initiatives. Throughout these roles, I have demonstrated proficiency in utilizing tools such as the Salesforce platform and online debrief forms, underscoring my commitment to operational excellence and advancing organizational goals through meticulous research, strategic partnership development, and comprehensive reporting.

Kings County, California, United States

I gained valuable experience working directly with attorneys to prepare for different stages of litigation. This included conducting thorough research on various criminal litigation issues and drafting detailed legal memoranda to support case strategies. Additionally, I had the opportunity to observe witness interviews, providing me with firsthand exposure to investigative processes and enhancing my understanding of case preparation. Furthermore, I attended multiple court hearings to observe legal proceedings and gain insights into courtroom dynamics. These experiences deepened my knowledge of procedural aspects, courtroom etiquette, and the practical application of legal theories in litigation settings. My involvement in these activities underscores my commitment to advancing my legal skills and contributing effectively to the litigation process under the guidance of experienced legal professionals.

Myanmar

As a Peace Corps volunteer, I made a significant impact by teaching an average of 14 classes per week, reaching approximately 160 students daily through both independent instruction and co-teaching initiatives. I developed comprehensive lesson plans, teaching materials, and class curricula with a strong emphasis on student-centered teaching methods to enhance learning outcomes. Working closely with local English teachers, I collaborated on co-planning and co-teaching middle and high school level English language classes, typically accommodating 40 to 80 students. I actively engaged youth in the community by organizing English speaking classes at a local monastery for students ranging from grades 4 to 12, as well as university-level speakers. Beyond classroom instruction, I coordinated extracurricular and recreational activities such as community cleanups, dance performances, and art and music lessons, fostering holistic development among students. In partnership with schools and community stakeholders, I led efforts to renovate and expand the student library, successfully securing nearly 70 book donations from NGOs and local community members. Additionally, I completed a rigorous 10-week community-based training program focused on Burmese language and culture, English education technical skills, and project-related development, monitoring, and evaluation. These experiences reflect my commitment to education, community engagement, and enhancing educational resources and opportunities for students.

Visalia, California, United States

I collaborated closely with social workers on case management tasks aimed at providing comprehensive support to a diverse clientele, particularly focusing on low-income individuals. Serving as a dedicated advocate, I ensured that clients' rights were upheld and that they had access to departmental and community resources. I supervised and mentored clients during approved visitations and activities, fostering supportive relationships while providing crucial case-related information and support. Facilitating referrals to community resources was a key aspect of my role, where I guided clients in accessing essential services tailored to their needs. I maintained detailed case narratives and meticulously documented client interactions in both manual and electronic records, ensuring accuracy and compliance with organizational protocols. Additionally, I played a vital role in explaining complex social services programs and resources to clients, assisting them in navigating administrative procedures and prioritizing their safety and well-being throughout their interactions with our services. These responsibilities underscore my commitment to client advocacy, support, and effective case management within social services.

Camarillo, California, United States

I provided essential support in various administrative functions, including assisting in the planning and execution of staff meetings to ensure effective communication and coordination among team members. I played a key role in the hiring process of new Student Union Student Assistant staff, contributing to the expansion and enhancement of our team. Additionally, I organized, oversaw, and assisted with the professional development and training of Student Union Student Assistants. This included conducting training sessions on Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, equipping staff with essential skills for their roles. I also coordinated the schedules of Student Union Student Assistants, managing requests for time-off and facilitating shift changes to ensure smooth operations and optimal staffing levels.

Camarillo, California, United States

I served as the primary point of contact for customers, providing information and assistance in person, over the phone, and via email. I effectively interacted with diverse campus constituencies to gather information on campus activities, ensuring comprehensive and up-to-date communication with students and staff. Additionally, I supported administrative processes in the Associated Students Inc. Office, handling cash transactions and maintaining accuracy in financial procedures. I also took initiative in developing monthly activities aimed at enhancing student engagement. These activities were strategically designed to promote topics such as health awareness, positive body image, and cultural holidays among students, fostering a supportive and inclusive campus environment. Through these efforts, I contributed to the vibrancy of campus life and facilitated meaningful connections between students and campus resources.

Master Of Science - Ms, Global Affairs, 4.0

Activities and Societies: • Paul D. Coverdell Fellowship • Social Sector Diversity Leadership Fellowship • Global Field Intensive, A Study.

Bachelor Of Arts - Ba, Psychology, Summa Cum Laude; 3.94

Activities and Societies: Psi Chi International Honor Society in Psychology, Gamma Beta Phi National Honor Society, Zeta Pi Omega.