When Debbie Moore joined the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce team as their new CEO in 2016, she quickly began making the rounds to meet local business leaders. During this time, she was introduced to Abel Covarrubias, Aprendamos Family of Services CEO. “I learned about his family and Aprendamos, and it was a joy to hear about the services being offered and to see his passion in creating such a wonderful organization for our community,” Debbie shared.
As the leader of the Chamber, Debbie is passionate about economic development and ensuring there are quality employment opportunities for Las Cruces residents. “A salary can typically roll over three to five times within a community, so when you think about the millions of dollars of impact that Aprendamos makes in our community, that’s a powerful tool.” She also spoke to the importance of job creation in our region and the benefit Aprendamos services bring to business recruitment initiatives. “Over the years you have grown—you didn’t start with 200 plus employees. To have such an organization that offers a myriad of services, it’s important for business recruitment because you never know when you are working with a company whose CEO’s child may need special help.”
Debbie also spoke to the significance of Aprendamos being in business for two decades and how a company’s culture and values impact a community. “20 years is a long time to be in business, so that stability attracts people. Additionally, what you have created following Abel’s lead is that culture of family. Because you service families, you are an internal family as well.”
When Debbie was asked what she sees for the future, she is confident the positive momentum can continue. She said, “Aprendamos over the years has made a huge impact in our community. Staff members aren’t shy about becoming involved and Abel encourages you all. His leadership and the culture he has created have also led to philanthropic initiatives. Happy anniversary to twenty years, and here’s to 20 more.”
Thank you, Debbie, for being a valued community partner and for making a meaningful difference in Las Cruces and being part of the Aprendamos journey!