Omar Barberena lives by the philosophy, “Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.” He has found many jobs to love. He is a Training Specialist for the Red Cross, a financial manager at Aurora Family Services, a Spanish teacher for Milwaukee Recreation Department and a board member for Wisconsin/ Nicaragua Partners of the Americas. Though Omar’s passions keep him on the move, he enjoys his busy lifestyle.

For over a year, Omar has instructed and certified corporate employees and individuals in CPR, first aid and Babysitting. His goal is to make sure his clients feel confident and comfortable in performing important Red Cross skills. He teaches this because he can personally advocate for the importance of the skills. Just weeks after he was certified in CPR and first aid, Omar was at a store when someone fainted. While others hesitated, he got help, opened the person’s airway and got information for emergency personnel.

Every Red Cross staff member brings some unique experience or skill to their work, and Omar is no exception. As the only Spanish-speaking Training Specialist, he can reach a larger audience. He says, “Speaking Spanish opens up another door for teaching. As the population changes, there is a great need for trainers who speak Spanish.”
 
Originally from Nicaragua, Omar supports and teaches others about his home country through his involvement in the Wisconsin/Nicaragua Partners. This organization sponsors projects to enhance the lives of those both in Wisconsin and Nicaragua. For example, the group raises funds for hurricane disaster relief, holds cultural events and plans international trips. Currently, Omar is helping to plan an October fundraiser called Bike/Hike to Nicaragua to help with Hurricane Felix relief. He also plans to visit Nicaragua to conduct workshops in community involvement and membership awareness.

Always looking for an adventure, Omar has traveled to Nicaragua, Peru, Mexico, El Salvador and much of Europe. He believes traveling expands his perspective on the world and people. “It gives me a better sense of who I am and who we all are,” he says.

Whether teaching or traveling, he undoubtedly will be having a good time. All together, Omar estimates he works and volunteers about 80 hours a week. But in line with his philosophy, he rarely works because he truly loves all he does.