When it comes to supporting our kids in northern Taos County, it truly takes all of us working together. The Vida del Norte Coalition focuses on youth mental wellness, healthy choices, and substance abuse prevention right here in Questa. While the coalition brings together twelve community sectors, Youth-Serving Sector Lead Winter Hernandez shares a personal perspective on why showing up for local youth matters so much in her role.
Being a Trusted Voice for Our Kids

At the end of the school day at the Vida del Norte after-school program, children rush over to Hernandez excited to share what made them happy, what is bothering them, or how they feel.

“In those moments, I’ve realized that I’ve become someone they look forward to seeing and trust enough to open up to,” shares Hernandez. “I’ve started to feel like an older sister to them, and it means so much to know they feel comfortable talking to me. This experience has shown me how important it is for children to have caring people who listen, support them, and make them feel valued.”

These daily connections have strengthened her belief in youth-serving work and shaped her future goals of planning to study child psychology in college and become a child therapist. “I want to be someone kids can talk to without fear of judgment.”

“The support children receive today can shape who they become tomorrow, and even small acts of care can make a lasting difference,” she explains. “I want every child to feel safe, loved, and supported while growing up in a community that values their well-being and gives them the opportunity to make happy memories.”

Responding to Community Challenges with Care

Working directly with youth highlights both the strength and the real struggles facing northern New Mexico. While neighbors here come together with care and compassion, addiction and substance misuse have also hurt local families and changed lives.

Rather than allowing anger and negativity to divide the town, her message is centered on understanding and unity.

“These issues remind me that we need to respond with greater understanding, positivity, and support rather than allowing anger and negativity to divide us,” Hernandez shares. “We may not be able to solve everything at once, but we can show up for one another and make sure no one feels alone. As the youth-serving sector lead, I want to be someone this community can trust. We cannot change everything overnight, but by coming together and putting our children first, we can create a better future for the next generation.”

Get Involved: How You Can Help

Strong communities build strong youth, and there is a spot for everyone to pitch in.

• For Youth (Middle & High Schoolers): Join the Active8 Youth Coalition. Build leadership skills, earn community service hours, and help plan fun local events.
• Active8: We offer a scholarship to youth who complete a full year of service with Vida Del Norte.
• For Parents & Families: Attend monthly coalition meetings, connect with other parents, and support local youth activities.
• For Neighbors & Businesses: Volunteer your time, sponsor youth programs, or sit on a coalition committee to lend your support.