Denise Martinez

RLT Facilitator 

Denise Martinez is a steadfast advocate and compassionate champion for individuals and families facing hardship. Rooted in the city where she was raised — Waterbury, Connecticut — Denise’s dedication reflects her deep love for community and service. A proud graduate of Barnard Elementary, West Side Middle School, and John F. Kennedy High School, she has spent more than 20 years uplifting neighbors, building partnerships, and ensuring people have the resources they need to survive and thrive.

As a Community Engagement Specialist with New Opportunities, Inc., Denise sees her work not as a job, but as a calling. She walks alongside families navigating crisis, connects community members to vital supports, and helps create spaces where dignity, belonging, and hope are centered. Her calm presence, strategic thinking, and “how can I help?” mindset make her a trusted leader — especially when situations are complex or urgent.

Denise also brings deep commitment to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through her long service with Dungarvin. Her approach blends advocacy, compassion, and respect — always focused on empowerment and inclusion.

Service beyond the workplace is woven into Denise’s life. She has deployed as a Disaster Relief Volunteer with the American Red Cross, supporting recovery efforts in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria (2017) and in Florida after Hurricane Ian (2022). She is a founding board member of the Greater Waterbury Puerto Rican Day Parade & Festival Committee and serves on the board of the Jack Paul Noujaim Foundation, continuing her commitment to cultural pride, community resilience, and service.

Known for her humility, humor, and unwavering determination, Denise leads quietly yet powerfully — inspiring others to step forward, collaborate, and care for one another. Above all, she is most proud of her role as mother to three children and grandmother to four grandchildren, who motivate her daily to keep building a stronger, more compassionate community.