A woman who has worked tirelessly, transforming lives through her unwavering vision of service always guided by faith and a commitment to community-building.
Beginnigs
Born in 1951 in Havana, Cuba, Reverend Bonnie Camarda emigrated to Spain during her teenage years and later to the United States, where she earned an MBA from Wharton Business School of the University of Pennsylvania and a Master of Divinity from Rice University.
“I came here thanks to my relatives, who paid for my education. It was a cultural shock, I was 16, didn’t know anyone who spoke Spanish, and had no family around. That’s why, when people say young people can’t achieve anything, I laugh, because I’m living proof that they can.”
When asked by Impacto if she would change anything about her childhood or early years, she answered with conviction: “No, I wouldn’t change a thing. I lived in different countries with different people. My life was enriched. I learned that in many moments, I had to keep going… and I did.”
“I had crossed paths with Reverend Bonnie Camarda only occasionally over the years—perhaps at events and celebrations. But when Hurricane María struck Puerto Rico in 2017 and we came together as a community to help, my admiration for her grew exponentially. She was present with heart, commitment, and love. She mobilized resources like few others could—not only from the Salvation Army, but also from Einstein Hospital, the corporate sector, government agencies, and more. And she did it all without fanfare, in the quiet, dignified manner that defines her style.
But our connection wasn’t just professional. Reverend Bonnie has a rare gift for reaching people on a deeply human level. Now that I’m mostly retired, she is one of the people I truly miss seeing more often” . Carmen Febo
While she doesn’t regret her past experiences, she reflects on one exception with tenderness:
“If I had to change something, it would be that my entire family could have left Cuba at the same time.”
“I’ve known Bonnie Camarda for over 30 years, and she has always been a powerful force for service, justice, and empowerment in our community. Her leadership—as a reverend, and through her work with the Salvation Army—has transformed countless lives, offering hope, dignity, and opportunity to those most in need. When I returned to Philadelphia as CEO of APM, she was one of the first to call—not just to congratulate me, but to coach and pray for me. That’s the kind of community leader Bonnie is—one who uplifts others with genuine love, wisdom, and unwavering commitment”. Nilda Ruiz
Professional development
Although she studied business, Reverend Bonnie Camarda felt a deep calling toward philanthropy. A friend gave her a bilingual Bible, and reading it together led her to a personal relationship with God.
“I realized it wasn’t about me – it was about helping others. That’s where it all began.”
For nearly nine years, she worked as Finance Director for Christian crusades in New York and Colombia, supporting local pastors with organization and financial management. Upon returning to the U.S., she began her pastoral work in Philadelphia with the church, Comunidad Viviente. Her ministry flourished particularly in Hunting Park: “It wasn’t easy to bring the gospel there, but I knew God had placed me in that space. And this was what I wanted to do. I’m back home, and this is where evangelism begins.”
On 5th Street in Philadelphia, Reverend Bonnie Camarda launched a community project with families and pastors, offering spiritual and material support. It was there that she met Reverend Luis Cortés. Together, they founded the Philadelphia Hispanic Clergy, which eventually gave birth to Esperanza, a nonprofit that has transformed lives in Hunting Park and beyond.
“The only way to create real change was by forming a non-ecclesiastical organization. Reverend Cortés’ vision made Esperanza possible.”
“From the first time that we met at Esperanza, where we served on the Board, to the countless other charity events in the city where we would see each other, Rev Bonnie’s love for this city and our community is matched only by her infectious smile and laughter. She is a blessing”. Juan Lopez
Mission and leadership
Guided by this common vision, Reverend Bonnie Camarda found in Esperanza a powerful platform to serve with faith and social commitment. As a board member for over 26 years including one as Board Chair, she contributed to economic, educational, and community projects throughout Philadelphia.
As co-founder of the Hispanic Clergy of Philadelphia, she promotes interfaith dialogue and collaborates with schools, churches, and government agencies. Her mission: “To unite and serve, using the gifts God gave me and learning from others.”
She remains active as Director of Community Partnerships for the Salvation Army in Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware, leading social initiatives including food distribution, support for displaced families, violence prevention, mental health programs, and emergency response.
“This experience has allowed me to work for my community and expand my reach to others.”
The Salvation Army is a network of community centers offering both social and spiritual support, including Sunday worship and weekday activities.
“As you step into retirement from Esperanza’s board, we want to express our deepest gratitude for the many years you’ve dedicated to this community. Your commitment, kindness, and leadership have left a lasting mark on all of us. You’ve been more than just a member—you’ve been a source of strength, wisdom, and heart. From the small everyday moments to the big milestones, your presence has made a difference in ways words can hardly capture. With heartfelt thanks and warm wishes” . Joanna Otero
Legacy
Her social impact work earned her an official resolution from Philadelphia City Council in 2022, recognizing her as a spiritual leader and community bridge-builder for the Latino community. After Hurricane María, she was named an honorary citizen of Puerto Rico for her work with migrants.
“There’s still so much to do; service is my legacy—to help those with the least and transform lives, from the street to a home, a job, and a school… all with Christ’s help.”
Reverend Bonnie Camarda continues her work in social justice and community wellness, connecting churches and resources to serve those in greatest need. With a vision of unity and steadfast faith, she works toward a future full of hope: “Leaders must come together, share the vision, and work collectively to generate change. That is my legacy.” With tireless and compassionate leadership, Reverend Bonnie Camarda is our featured Vida de Impacto.
“Rev. Camarda has been a great champion advocating on behalf of the Latino community. She has done that work over decades and with various mayoral administrations and leadership changes in City Council. We are blessed to have her. We look forward to continuing to work with her in the future”. Will Gonzalez
Bonnie is so committed to the Latino community, not just in Philadelphia but across the commonwealth. She is known and loved by all; she has a way of bringing people together from incredibly different backgrounds. She nurtures the relationship she has built and is loyal and a woman of faith. She is my working mom and has supported me from the early days. When I lost my mom a few years ago, she stepped in to support me emotionally. She is a rock for so many women, men, leaders, government officials, and her husband, John. Cynthia Figueroa
