About me ...
Patricia Carvalho
I was born and raised in Fall River, Massachusetts, where my Portuguese parents and siblings had settled from the Azores. The “old world” values of discipline, resilience, and hard work were instilled in me early in life — shaped further by the loss of my father when I was ten and the unwavering strength of my mother, who supported us through long days sewing labels on men’s dress shirts in the local factory.
This early foundation formed my deep respect for commitment, integrity, and service — values that have guided me throughout my life.
After more than twenty years working in corporate operations, I began seeking a path that aligned more deeply with my heart and my desire to give back to community. In 2011, I volunteered with several nonprofit organizations, including Ashby Village, Berkeley Food Pantry, Carol Ann Read Breast Health Center, and the Society for the Blind. It was through this work that I discovered my greatest joy: supporting elders and strengthening the systems that care for them.
This realization redirected the course of my life. I was honored to be offered a role at Ashby Village, where I managed Operations and the Volunteer Program — designing, nurturing, and expanding a model recognized for its strength, compassion, and sustainability.
After a decade of service, I now bring my talents, skills, and experience to nonprofit organizations seeking to elevate their volunteer systems, with a primary focus on the Village Movement and mission-driven communities serving elders.
Today, I live in Berkeley, California with my beloved rescue dog, Lola Valentine, who fills my days — and my heart — with immeasurable joy.
Photo by Nancy Rubin