Patricia Tototzintle's leadership at St. Paul-based Esperanza United has boosted it to become a nationally recognized Latina organization. From its beginnings as a shelter in St. Paul, Tototzintle saw the potential for Esperanza to be a catalyst for leadership. Under her direction, the organization expanded its programs, including research, advocacy, training, and direct services, all toward the goal of mobilizing the Latina community to end gender-based violence. There are also programs focused on boys and men, a shift to encompass broader gender-based violence issues. Tototzintle played a pivotal role in enhancing Esperanza’s financial stability, which has enabled staff expansion and benefits, with more resources to continue advocacy work for the Latina community. After 23 years of driving organizational growth, Tototzintle plans to retire from her post at the end of the year.