About Alianzas

Alianzas is a joint program between University of Missouri Extension and the University of Missouri-Kansas City Institute of Human Development.

The program was created in 2001 to enhance the ability of University of Missouri (MU) Extension specialists and its partners in response to increasing Latino populations in Missouri.

Building Alliances and Fostering Connection

Between MU Extension, Latinx Residents and the Community

The University of Missouri (MU) Extension is based out of Columbia, Missouri and is the community outreach branch for the University of Missouri System.

MU Extension offers a variety of programs and resources that use research-based knowledge to support communities throughout Missouri.

Divided into eight regions, Alianzas selects Ambassadors that partner with MU’s regional directors to foster connections with and better serve Latinos around the state.

Alianzas staff with MU Extension Specialist and community members in Englewood Arts District

Cultivating Effective Intercultural Communication

Intercultural communication is the process of creating meaning between people for different cultural backgrounds that goes beyond language and interpersonal skills. Based on principles such as respect, trust, awareness and understanding, intercultural communication is crucial for navigating differences in cross-cultural situations.

Through the implementation of community-based outreach programs and research-based learning opportunities, Alianzas bolsters effective intercultural communication in Latino communities throughout Missouri.

Objectives

Enhance

the capacity of MU Extension specialists in responding to Hispanic and Latinx-related issues and help expand outreach programs.

Introduce

coalition-building as a strategic thinking tool for improved community development.

Develop and sustain

alliances that promote collaboration across sectors, including business, education and community organizations.

Provide

culturally relevant support, tools and opportunities that uplift Latino individuals, families and entrepreneurs.

Contribute

expertise for problem-solving issues related to immigration, culture, language and other key issues concerning Latino communities.

Program Leadership

Gerardo Martinez, director of Alianzas

Gerardo R. Martinez, MBA

Director of Intercultural Engagement, UMKC-IHD

Gerardo Martinez received his Master’s in Business Administration at Regiomontana University in Monterrey, México in 1990. He moved to Toronto, Canada to continue his education, giving him nearly a decade of professional experiences in one of the world’s most multi-cultural cities.

In 2000, Gerardo moved to the U.S. to work for FranklinCovey in Utah. Five years later, he moved to Missouri and joined Mattie Rhodes Center in Kansas City, serving the Latino community. Gerardo received the Spirit Award for his outstanding dedication and service to Latino families that had a child with developmental disabilities.

Since 2014, Gerardo has served as the Director of Intercultural Engagement at the University of Missouri-Kansas City Institute of Human Development (UMKC-IHD) and the Alianzas program in partnership with University of Missouri Extension.

He is certified in Crossing Cultures with Competence from Dr. Ann Copeland, in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People (in Spanish), from Dr. Stephen R. Covey, and as a Culture Ambassador from Dr. Geert Hofstede’s Intercultural Management and Organizational Culture program.

Gerardo’s passion for advocacy for Latino families is reflected in his continual dedication to this population. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Empower Missouri, which aims for affordable housing, food security and social justice. He has also served on the board for Cambio of the Ozarks, and as a council member on the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council and Truman Heritage Habitat for Humanity.

Gerardo has been blessed as a husband and father of six children, residing in Independence, Missouri. He loves reading, traveling and dancing!