Hugo Saltijeral
Executive Director
Valley Sheltered Workship
I am honored to serve as the Executive Director of Valley Sheltered Workshop (VSW), a nonprofit organization based in Batavia that empowers adults with disabilities through meaningful, purposeful activities and community engagement. With over a decade of experience as a community organizer, I have dedicated my career to creating opportunities that uplift individuals often overlooked, including those with disabilities and people experiencing homelessness. Through my work with persons experiencing homelessness, I was able to rethink the value of work for our homeless friends—it was the sense of identity and purpose gained through employment that proved even more valuable than the paycheck itself. My commitment extends to numerous community organizations, supporting families, and advocating for suicide prevention among adolescents.
Guided by my deep faith and dedication to serving others, I have worked to develop creative employment solutions that recognize and appreciate the unique contributions of every individual. At VSW, we have expanded our impact by offering transformative programs that build independence, self-worth, and a strong sense of belonging. My work is inspired by the belief that strong community partnerships, collaboration, and compassionate service can make a lasting difference.
I believe everyone deserves the dignity of work and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society. I am called to serve God by serving His children. As Mark Twain famously said, "The two greatest dates in a person's life are the day they are born and the day they discover their purpose." My purpose is abundantly clear today—I am called to serve all of God’s children. As the keynote speaker for the 2025 Batavia Brotherhood Banquet, I look forward to sharing my insights on building a stronger community, one where every person feels valued and supported.
