After 9 years serving as the Executive Director of Siempre Unidos, Amy is retiring to focus on family and friends. We are extremely grateful for her years of dedicated, skilled leadership. We are fortunate to have found two highly skilled professionals who are willing to work part-time to replace Amy. Please welcome Sophia Sleap and Curt Cassels to our team.
Sophia Sleap, Program and Grants Manager
Sophia Sleap is a seasoned nonprofit t professional with 15 years of experience in fundraising, research, and advocacy. She has a strong track record of success in the United States, Latin America, and the United Kingdom. Sophiahas been the Development Director for Proyecto Pastoral, a community-based organization in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles, for six years. In this role, she was key in securing funding to support the organization’s important work raises$3.5M annually and oversees a team of five.
Before joining Proyecto Pastoral, Sophia completed her Master’s in Latin American Studies at UCLA. She also has experience working for a nonprofit organization in Peru and has participated in delegations to El Salvador. Originally from England, Sophia began her career in fundraising after completing her bachelor’s degree in history and philosophy at the University of Leeds. Outside of work, Sophia enjoys surfing and spending time with friends.
Curt Cassels, Siempre Unidos, Development Director
Curt Cassels brings a wealth of experience in the non-profit and business sectors to Siempre Unidos. Curt is committed to giving back to the community and has a proven track record of success in fundraising and event management. Previously, Curt served on Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) in LasVegas, where he successfully spearheaded two AIDS walks and played a key role in developing the Rick Monroe AIDS Rose Memorial Garden on the UNLV campus.
Curt’s dedication to social justice continued when he moved to San Francisco.For over ten years, Curt was involved with North Beach Citizens, a successful homeless advocacy non-profit founded by Francis Ford Coppola in San Francisco. During his time with North Beach Citizens, Curt served in various leadership roles, including Board Member, Secretary, and Chair of multiple fundraising events. Curt helped raise over $1.5 million through his leadership to support the organization’s work.
In addition to his non-profit work, Curt has extensive experience in the beauty and wellness industry, having held executive positions at Chanel, Murad, and Procter & Gamble. Most recently, Curt assisted beauty startups in launching their products with top US and European retailers. Today, besides his responsibilities with Siempre Unidos, Curt is a travel advisor. Outside of work, Curt enjoys travel, SFJazz, and SFOpera.
We will miss Amy and wish her well. And, as you have read, both Sophia and Curt bring new energy, experience, and passion to our organization. We look forward to working with them and further advancing Siempre Unidos’ impact.