From Stage to Service: Andrea Lucero Brings Heart, Harmony, and Hope to United Way’s Collective Impact Work
Andrea Lucero, Collective Impact Director
United Way Northern New Mexico is turning up the volume on community collaboration with the hiring of Andrea Lucero as its new Community Impact Director—a role dedicated to strengthening nonprofits, building youth leadership, and sparking meaningful change across the region.
Andrea may be best known to many in Northern New Mexico as the vocalist behind the beloved band Divino, but now she’s taking center stage in a different way—helping young people and nonprofits find their voice and rise together.
Born and raised in Northern New Mexico, Andrea brings a deep love for her community and culture into her new role. “I'm really blessed to be in this community,” she says. “It’s always been about building from our roots. That’s what United Way is all about—connection, empowerment, and working from the foundation of who we are.”
As Community Impact Director, Andrea leads initiatives that bring nonprofits together to address shared challenges and unlock new possibilities through collaboration. At the heart of this effort is United Way’s casita on the McCurdy Family Resource Campus, a hub working to unite nonprofits, youth-serving organizations and the community to connect, align efforts, and reach residents and more young people in meaningful ways.
“One program isn’t going to reach every young adult,” says Cindy Padilla, Executive Director of United Way of Northern New Mexico. “It takes the whole community—a network of opportunities and mentors—to guide youth toward programs that fit their unique interests and dreams.”
Andrea’s passion for building that network is deeply personal. “Many families here have been touched by instability—whether through substance abuse, incarceration, or other challenges,” she says. “I’m excited to bring our casita alive and create positive spaces where young people can learn, grow, and find the confidence to become their best selves.”
Andrea is already diving into her work, coordinating a Community Health Fair to be held at the McCurdy Family Resource Campus. Her office is located in Building 17, where she welcomes community members and partners to connect, collaborate, and co-create.
To learn more about Collective Impact, visit www.unitedwaynnm.org/collective-impact or reach out to Andrea directly at alucero@unitedwaynnm.org or 505.216.6834.
Stop by, say hello, and join Andrea in building a stronger, more united Northern New Mexico.