Throughout this year, we will be highlighting individuals or groups that have impacted our work over the last 50 years.

Ana Santamaria

Senior Peer Counselor, Peace Over Violence

Ana Santamaria is celebrating her 24 year anniversary working at Peace Over Violence. Congratulations, Ana!

Ana was born in El Salvador and has dedicated her life to the movement against violence. She began working for POV in 1998, and remains a committed member of our Intervention team. She has helped to elevate our Spanish speaking programs and services and is a leader in the community. Ana is a true advocate, working to empower survivors of sexual and domestic violence and their families every day. She works one on one with survivors, guiding them on their healing journeys, leads and facilitates support groups, and represents POV regularly in the media. Over the last 24 years, Ana has compassionately helped countless individuals as they process and heal through the trauma of violence.

Ana’s enthusiasm for life is palpable. She is the ultimate positivist, always smiling and bringing joy to everyone she meets. In her free time, she loves to paint and spend time with her family.

On her 24th anniversary, Ana said: “My philosophy is: every day is my first day and I will present myself with the best attitude to all! I will never give up fighting against violence.”