“I wish that I could save the world. I really, really do.” Avygail Sanchez
One step closer to saving the world
When Avygail Sanchez was just 10 years old, she dreamed of saving the world.
The first big problem she would fix was eradicating homelessness in her Huntington Park, California, community. Her plan was simple: she would win the lottery to secure funding. Then, she would use the money to build a big house where people without housing could live and receive job training to help them get back on their feet. To her, homelessness in her community was such an easy problem to fix.
“As a little kid, I thought if people really wanted to, they would fix problems,” Sanchez said. “All the money’s there, all the resources, all the smart people are there. But there’s no will. All we must do is decide that’s what we want to do.”
Big dreams, big impact
Sanchez hasn’t saved the world yet, but her passion for solving big problems and giving people hope still inspires her. Today, she is the Executive Vice President of Business Strategy at Vanir, a minority- and women-owned firm leading the nation in program, project and construction management as well as real estate development. Throughout her 20-year career in urban planning, project strategy and public relations, she has used her voice to ensure communities of color are not exploited and get the resources they need.
Sanchez has also supported Adventist Health White Memorial for many years. She gives generously and inspires others to do the same because, much like homelessness, making healthcare more accessible to everyone is a big issue that needs to be solved.
“Our community has language barriers, certain taboos about going to the doctor and we only go when we feel sick, not for preventative health,” Sanchez said. “But Adventist Health White Memorial has the cultural understanding and compassion to treat people who need help.”
Recognized for her genuine love of the community and professional expertise, Sanchez was recently invited to join the Adventist Health White Memorial Charitable Foundation board of directors, an opportunity she graciously accepted. She is excited to lend her extensive experience in urban planning, construction, design and business development to help Adventist Health White Memorial bring hope to her community.
This role also brings her one step closer to fulfilling her childhood dream. “I really think about the people who cannot advocate for themselves,” Sanchez said. “I wish that I could save the world. I really, really do.”
Just like Avygail Sanchez, you can bring hope to your community. Your gift to Adventist Health White Memorial helps families in Boyle Heights, East Los Angeles, Montebello and beyond receive the care and support they need. By giving today, you’re bringing hope to those who need it most.
Make your gift now and be part of our story to inspire good health.