TUCSON, Arizona (KOLD News 13) – A Tucson woman single-handedly helped hundreds of people sign up for the COVID-19 vaccine and is recognized as a Heart & Sol recipient this week.
Language barriers and a lack of technology have made it difficult for some people to sign up for the vaccine. The 26-year-old Dora Valencia became aware of this.
“I have kind of an inside view of these communities,” said Valencia. “They are a little more vulnerable and less educated.”
Valencia has a Masters in Public Health and is working on her PhD. She saw problems with vaccine availability firsthand in her courses and in her own family.
“It was heartbreaking because I knew we were in exactly the same situation,” she said. “We live in multi-generational households, most of us are vital workers, and we thrive when we get together.”
Her sister, Yasmine Valencia, has a work schedule that made it difficult for her to get an appointment when slots became available. Dora Valencia registered them and also helped other family members.
“I feel protected and a lot safer,” said Yasmine Valencia.
The news soon spread, particularly in Tucson’s Spanish-speaking community.
“I would only get text messages. Like, ‘hey, I heard you could get us an appointment. Can we give you our information? “
It has set itself the task of registering almost 300 people.
“I’m really proud of her because she is always ready to help everyone,” said Yasmine Valencia.
Dora Valencia said her experience made two things very clear.
“The power of community and people are really looking for someone to trust,” she said.
Dora Valencia received a $ 300 gift card from our sponsor Casino Del Sol. If you have someone you think represents “the heart and soul of Tucson,” please nominate them HERE.
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