The Staff of Stars

orange line graphic

Karla Sanchez-Ruiz

MSW Intern

karlas@gostars.org

Karla was born and raised in East Los Angeles and has dedicated her career to the intersection of social work, mental health, and community advocacy. She currently works at the East Los Angeles Women’s Center as a Victims Coordinator, supporting survivors of domestic violence through trauma‑informed, culturally responsive services.

Karla is also completing her Master of Social Work and brings extensive experience working with youth, families, and survivors across community‑based programs and clinical behavioral health settings. Her work also includes leadership development for middle school students, where she integrates empowerment, social‑emotional learning, and evidence‑based strategies.

In her free time, Karla enjoys hiking, paddle boarding, and exploring new hobbies. She values community, connection, and lifelong learning and she brings that same spirit of curiosity, compassion, and resilience into her professional settings.