Inspire, Empower, Nurture

OUR INITIATIVES

EMPOWERING FUTURE PROFESSIONALS

The Vertiso Foundation is a 501(c)(3) community-based, student-led nonprofit organization. Based in Nevada, we are dedicated to inspiring, empowering, and nurturing students, not only at home in our community, but also across the United States.

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to empower underserved and underrepresented students in their professional pursuits and to foster unity within communities through intentional action. We believe in the power of people, and through our foundation, we connect and amplify the strength of future leaders, one professional at a time.

FOSTERING PARTNERSHIPS

In addition to partnering with students, we collaborate with other non-profit organizations to create a positive and lasting impact on communities throughout Nevada and beyond.

BOOSTING VOLUNTEER POWER

We strive to build a strong volunteer force to amplify the impact of each of our initiatives. Our website makes it easy to get involved by serving as an all-in-one portal to sign up for volunteer opportunities and get connected to our mission.

SUPPORTING CAUSES

We are committed to directing 100% of all donations and funds raised from our collection efforts to specific student or community projects in need.

GET INVOLVED

You can get involved by finding a local Vertiso Box hotspot for item donations. You can also contact a Vertiso representative to organize a fundraiser, make a monetary donation, join our team, host a Vertiso Box hotspot, or discuss a potential partnership.

VERTISO FUNDRAISER CAFFÈ

Single cup, all the benefits.

The Heart of Our Efforts

Born and raised in Nevada, we witnessed firsthand the diversity and unique needs of our communities. Recognizing the areas where people need support, and the initiatives that can truly make a difference, we established Vertiso Foundation.

As ambitious leaders in our schools and communities, we experienced the profound impact that empowered youth can have. By fostering and nurturing opportunities for today's Nevada youth, we aim to create lasting positive change for both individuals and the broader community.

We believe that nurturing these opportunities not only benefits the causes we support but also instills a lifelong passion in young leaders, guiding them as they grow into their professions.

Unfortunately, many institutions and structures often overlook those in need due to lack of funding, available resources, or public support. At Vertiso Foundation, we strive to ensure that these individuals in need are not left behind.

We acknowledge the incredible potential of grassroots initiatives driven by individuals like us. By harnessing this potential, we aim to create a stronger, more inclusive Nevada, ensuring a brighter future for all.

    Our Foundation Board

    • Sergio A. Garcia, B.S.

      Founder & President

      Las Vegas-born and Nevada-raised, Sergio is a proud Latino and the first in his family to graduate from college. Raised by immigrant parents, he attended a Title I elementary school, where he demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, philanthropy, and community involvement through various school programs and student associations. Sergio graduated from the College of Southern Nevada with an A.S., while attending College of Southern Nevada High School, and from the University of Nevada, Reno with a B.S. in Biology (Pre-Medicine) shortly after.

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      Sergio has been an active community member, accumulating hundreds of community service hours in his upbringing for a multitude of communities local to Clark County and Washoe County.

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      With a background as a barista, Sergio's passion for coffee goes beyond the beverage itself; he views it as a medium to fortify interpersonal connections and foster meaningful conversations. This passion aligns seamlessly with his dedication to community service and his medical aspirations. Sergio is driven to raise awareness for Nevada initiatives, support youth, and fund health issue organizations.

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      Sergio's commitment to Nevada initiatives is rooted in his belief that community connection is the foundation for positive change. Through coffee, he aims to bring awareness and spark conversation to bring people together to discuss important issues, raise awareness, and generate funding to ultimately fortify the communities in Nevada.

    • Stephanie Arciniega-Rueda

      Vice President

      Stephanie is a pioneering Latina who was raised by immigrant parents. Determined to overcome generational challenges, she proudly became the first in her family to pursue higher education and a career in veterinary science. Nevada-raised, Stephanie has been an active and dedicated community member throughout her upbringing and academic journey, participating in and leading various philanthropic and community initiatives.

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      At Northwest Career and Technical Academy (NWCTA), Stephanie served as the President of the Future Health Professionals program (HOSA) while also leading an organization dedicated to helping students learn about college opportunities. Currently, she is at the University of Nevada, Reno, where she is pursuing a B.S. in Veterinary Science. Her commitment to community service continues as she holds leadership roles in the Pre-Vet Club, actively participates in her fraternity, and volunteers with associations devoted to providing companionship to seniors in long-term care facilities and caring for abandoned or unsheltered pets at the Nevada Humane Society.

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      Stephanie's passion for animals and people is complemented by her admiration for the art of coffee-making and the inclusive spaces that cafes create. She is dedicated to leveraging her skills and passions to enhance outreach efforts, build stronger connections, and raise awareness for critical initiatives in Nevada, all aimed at giving back to the community and roots she loves.

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      Stephanie's current community endeavor is working diligently to raise funding for the Nevada Humane Society, with a $1,000.00 contribution goal from students at the University of Nevada Reno.