A Day in the Life at Center for Hope
Center for Hope’s A Day in the Life series highlights the dedicated professionals who support individuals and families affected by trauma, violence and loss. Center for Hope (CFH) serves as a beacon for those facing difficult times, offering essential advocacy, counseling and resources. In this series, we explore the work and perspectives of the team members who contribute to CFH’s mission every day.
Today, we meet Magda Fernandez, an interpreter and translator at Center for Hope. In her role, Magda helps ensure that language is never a barrier to care, connection or understanding. By bridging communication gaps for non-English-speaking individuals and families, she plays a vital part in helping clients feel heard, supported and empowered during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
Q1. Who are you, and what do you do at Center for Hope?
A. My name is Magda Fernandez, and I serve as an interpreter and translator at Center for Hope.
Q2. What does “hope” mean to you in the context of your role?
A. As an interpreter at Center for Hope, hope means being a bridge that connects non-English speakers to the support they need. It means helping voices be heard clearly and accurately so individuals feel valued and empowered during difficult times. For me, hope is about enabling communication that can lead to healing, trust, safety and new beginnings.
Q3. What’s the most rewarding part of your day?
A. The most rewarding part of my day is knowing that I’ve helped someone feel understood and supported during a challenging period in their life. Being able to facilitate clear communication between clients and professionals, and seeing the relief or gratitude on their faces, makes my work truly meaningful.
Q4. What would you say to someone who is interested in joining your team?
A. I would tell someone interested in joining our team at Center for Hope that it is both a challenging and deeply rewarding experience. As part of this team, you’ll have the opportunity to support individuals during some of their most vulnerable moments, providing a voice for those who may otherwise feel unheard. The work requires patience, empathy, cultural sensitivity and excellent communication skills. You’ll also work closely with a dedicated group of professionals committed to making a positive impact. While the work can be emotionally demanding, the sense of fulfillment and the knowledge that you are helping people heal and find hope make it truly worthwhile.
If you are passionate about making a difference and committed to continuous learning, you’ll find a welcoming and supportive environment here.