Yarisleidy Cortez is a community development professional dedicated to advancing sustainable, people-centered impact. Born and raised in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, she began her leadership journey through environmental and social initiatives and graduated as valedictorian before earning a degree in Business Administration.

She began her work with Comunidad Connect leading environmental education efforts and now oversees community development initiatives and program strategy. Yarisleidy holds a Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) credential from the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance and a postgraduate degree in Project Management. With experience across Central America and the Caribbean, she supports the design and strengthening of programs that build local capacity and foster lasting change rooted in trust and collaboration.

Martha has a degree in Economics with a master’s degree in project formulation and evaluation. Her position is administrative and project assistant. She began working with Comunidad Connect Sociedad Civil in April 2024.

María de los Ángeles Pérez Peralta is from Jinotega and has degree in Public Accounting and Finance from the Universidad Popular de Nicaragua – Jinotega and a diploma in Social Psychology from the Servicio Internacional de Educación, Hogar y Salud S.A, Managua. After working with various community projects and organizations in Nicaragua, Maria joined the Comunidad Connect team in January 2017. She is our Accountant and HR Manager, and enjoys supporting the staff in the implementation of all programs and projects of the organization

Born and raised in Atlanta, GA, Jon has a Masters of Social Work from Georgia State University and co-founded Comunidad Connect while living in Nicaragua in 2007. In 2009, Comunidad Connect launched a program called Nica Agua, which brought access to clean water to over 7,000 people. More programs followed, including in-home health care for special needs patients, home construction, safe sanitation, and a community health clinic. In 2018, Comunidad Connect expanded to the Dominican Republic and supports special needs patients, the deaf community, at-risk youth, and community leaders through a cross-cultural integrated community development model. CC is a registered non-profit in the USA, Nicaragua and Dominican Republic. Jon is Co-Founder and CEO. 

With over two decades of experience in volunteer work, since 2001 I have been deeply involved with the deaf community, implementing programs that strengthen family, social, and personal relationships. My passion for social impact has led me to combine skills in teaching, psychology, and effective communication, creating spaces for transformation and growth. As an entrepreneur, I am the founder of a transportation company specializing in corporate and tourism services, as well as a tour operator offering unique and memorable experiences. Additionally, I am trained in public speaking and leadership, enabling me to connect authentically and meaningfully with diverse audiences. Currently, I have the honor of serving as Country Director for Comunidad Connect Dominican Republic, leading initiatives that drive positive and sustainable change within communities.My mission is to continue building bridges between people, fostering personal growth, and strengthening the bonds that unite us as a society.