Board of Directors
Vanessa R. Alonso
Founder & Board Chair
Vanessa R. Alonso is the Founder and Board Chair of Alonso Cares and the co-founder and CEO of Alonso & Alonso Attorneys at Law. For more than 15 years, she has dedicated her career to advocating for immigrant families through legal excellence, education, and community empowerment.
Raised on the U.S.–Mexico border by a teenage mother, Vanessa’s journey shaped her passion for expanding access to justice and opportunity. Under her leadership, Alonso & Alonso has grown into one of the nation’s most trusted Latino-led immigration law firms, serving more than 100,000 families across the United States.
Beyond her legal practice, Vanessa founded Alonso Cares and Latina Sin Límites to create lasting impact through education, leadership development, and community outreach. She believes every family deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams with dignity, confidence, and hope.
“Latina resiliency is a powerful force that defies odds, conquers adversity, and transforms dreams into reality.”
Giselle Cardenas
Board Secretary
Giselle Cardenas serves as Secretary of the Board of Directors for Alonso Cares, supporting the Foundation’s governance through board administration, organizational oversight, and strategic coordination. She is dedicated to ensuring effective communication, accountability, and the successful execution of the Board’s mission.
With a background in nonprofit operations, communications, and organizational management, Giselle has contributed to initiatives that expand access to education, resources, and support for immigrant families. Her passion for service and commitment to operational excellence help strengthen the Foundation’s ability to create meaningful, lasting impact.
Giselle believes that empowering communities begins with education, collaboration, and compassionate leadership. She is honored to support Alonso Cares’ mission of helping individuals and families build brighter futures.
Carrie Barron
Board Treasurer
As Treasurer of Alonso Cares, Carrie is honored to support the organization’s mission and bring financial clarity and stewardship to its impact.