Victims Advocates Reaching Out officially inducts 2026 Board of Directors

Victim Advocates Reaching Out officially inducted its 2026 Board of Directors on Saturday, March 7, 2026, following the organization’s elections earlier this year.

This induction marks the start of a strategic new chapter for the non-profit, as the board welcomes both returning leaders and appointees committed to fostering community partnerships and enhancing victim advocacy across Guam.

Elected to serve as President is Trina San Agustin, who previously served as Vice President, Public Information Officer, and Secretary for the organization. Since joining VARO in 2020, San Agustin has played a key role in planning and executing successful Purple Galas, the organization’s signature fundraising event, and has coordinated Volunteer Appreciation events. Her leadership priorities include strengthening board governance, expanding digital outreach, increasing grant opportunities, strengthening partner relationships, and ensuring long-term stability while remaining grounded in VARO’s survivor-centered mission.

Serving as Treasurer is Jonathan Mendiola, who brings more than six years of dedicated service to VARO. Throughout his time with the organization, he has served as a hotline volunteer, Training Chair, and Public Information Officer. His experience in multiple leadership and service roles reflects his continued commitment to supporting the organization’s mission and contributing to its overall strength and financial sustainability.

Elected as Public Information Officer is Tamuning Mayor, Louise Rivera, an active member of VARO since 2003. Mayor Rivera has consistently supported the organization’s mission and has served on numerous boards throughout the community. Her longstanding public service and strong partnerships within both government and private sectors will further strengthen VARO’s outreach and visibility.

Stepping into the role of Volunteer Support Chair is Verna Zafra-Kasala, a graduate of the University of Guam with a Master of Arts in English and a VARO support volunteer since 2018. She has actively contributed to outreach events, the VARO Duck Race/5K and the annual Purple Gala. In her new role, she aims to provide stronger guidance, engagement, and support for VARO’s volunteer base.

Appointed as the Vice President is Tina Esteves, a dedicated VARO volunteer since 2022 and former Training Chairperson. She also serves as Vice President and Marketing Chair for the Guam Football Association and is the Marketing Manager at Triple J Enterprises. Her extensive marketing and leadership experience will be vital in advancing VARO’s mission.

Additionally, Brianna Duenas was tapped to sit as VARO’s Training Chairperson. She joined VARO in 2020 as a Victim Advocate and has served on the Board of Directors as its Fundraising Chair in 2022. She is a Master of Social Work graduate from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and is currently a Readjustment Counselor, where she provides specialized, trauma-informed care to combat veterans and their families.

The newly elected and tapped board members will serve alongside current sitting Board members, Secretary, Dr. Judith Won Pat; Fundraising Chairperson Ulysses Story; and Member at Large, Delbert Calvo.