Bradenton, FL — 2/2/26

Manatee Literacy Council Welcomes New Board Member Yanira Castro

Manatee Literacy Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Yanira Castro to its Board of Directors. Yanira brings more than 25 years of experience in social services, nonprofit leadership, education, and community outreach, along with a deep commitment to serving families and diverse populations.

Yanira currently serves as Program Director at the Healthy Start Coalition of Sarasota County, where she oversees community-based programs supporting maternal health, early childhood development, and family well-being. Her work focuses on strengthening systems of care, building community partnerships, and ensuring families have access to critical resources.

A bilingual professional fluent in both Spanish and English, Yanira holds a Bachelor of Science in Education and a graduate specialization in Social Services Management. Her career reflects a strong record of success in program development, nonprofit operations, grant support, and staff leadership. She is also an experienced public speaker and workshop facilitator, with a passion for advocacy and community engagement.

Prior to her current role, Yanira held progressive positions at Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) in Sarasota, where she advanced from Advocate to Outreach Coordinator, expanding access to services through community partnerships and outreach. Earlier in her career, she worked as a Registered Behavior Therapist with Easterseals, supporting children with developmental needs.

Yanira also brings valuable international experience to the Manatee Literacy Council board. From 2014 to 2017, she founded and served as CEO of Dreams and Footprints, a nonprofit organization in Medellín, Colombia, dedicated to community development, education, and social services. Her background includes more than a decade of experience as a program developer, director, consultant, and educator supporting children and families across Colombia.

“We are thrilled to welcome Yanira to our Board,” said Michelle Desveaux McLean, Executive Director of Manatee Literacy Council. “Her expertise in social services, bilingual communication, and community-based program leadership will be an incredible asset as we continue expanding access to adult literacy and English language learning across Manatee County.”

Yanira’s professional strengths include program management, nonprofit operations, community outreach, staff training, and cross-sector collaboration — all of which align closely with Manatee Literacy Council’s mission to empower adults to independence through literacy.

Manatee Literacy Council looks forward to the insight, leadership, and passion Yanira will bring as we work together to strengthen our community.

About the Manatee Literacy Council
The Manatee Literacy Council empowers adult learners in Manatee County to achieve independence through literacy. Through free English language classes, tutoring, and community-based learning programs, MLC supports hundreds of adults each year in strengthening their reading, writing, and English communication skills.