Yvonne Silva’s calendar is full. As the multicultural events coordinator for the San Diego Union-Tribune, she’s always busy with events like the Asian Business Association Gala, San Diego Latino Film Festival and KSWB Kids Making a Difference.

The 31-year-old Silva also developed Palabras, a program to promote literacy and foster a greater love of reading in Latino youth. Silva established it with the San Diego chapter of MANA, a national Latina organization. Silva serves on the local MANA board, helped create a scholarship and brought in resources for the chapter’s marketing brochures, says Rosa Robles, vice president and administrator of operations. “Her commitment to the young girls we serve is strong,” says Robles.

Silva also is on the board of La Cuña, which is Spanish for “the cradle.” The organization focuses on Latino children in foster homes.

In addition, she is on the San Diego County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce board, is the group’s secretary and chaired its 2005 Viva El Mariachi Festival. “You can always count on Yvonne’s 100 percent (effort) on any endeavors she commits to and know that you are on a winning team whenever you work with her,” says Eddie Batiz, chamber vice chair.

Silva belongs to the San Diego Ad Club Hispanic Marketing Council and the Mothers Against Drunk Driving Hispanic Advisory Council.

A 2005 LEAD San Diego graduate, Silva’s activities draw praise from people like Luis Patino of Entravision. “Her passion for what she does is easily seen through her actions in the community,” he says.

For Silva, a full calendar represents how she gives to others. “It’s great helping my community,” she says. “I don’t have millions of dollars, but I do have time. I can contribute what I have to make my community better.”