Rafael Cardozo

Rafael Cardozo is the Donor Relations Manager for United Way of Northwest Louisiana. As a social entrepreneur, Rafael’s mission is to develop and maintain foundational relationships to support the mission of United Way, whether it would be through advocacy, fundraising, and/or community involvement. In this role, Rafael exemplifies the qualities of a team leader by assisting with the execution of events and community initiatives while maintaining a benevolent posture that further advocates on behalf of the interest of the organization and those we serve.

A social butterfly with a tenacious personality, he understands the importance of human connection and is truly not afraid to champion the mission he believes in. Rafael was originally born in Venezuela under a dictatorship, where his commitment to community development was formed as he understood what it means to battle corruption and poverty. Eventually, he and his family migrated to Houston to seek better life opportunities and education.

During his adolescence, Rafael volunteered and recorded thousands of service hours for multiple organizations while also maintaining a great rapport in his academics. It would be this philanthropic drive and determination that would later create an opportunity for him to attend East Texas Baptist University. While pursuing an undergrad degree in Humanities, Rafael began to further strengthen his zeal for social justice and equality, and after he graduated, he relocated to Shreveport to pursue these lifelong passions.

Rafael is always excited to jump headfirst into anything he does, and he always seeks to inspire and encourage everyone he meets. He is no stranger to Shreveport, and he is (proudly) ready to serve the United Way team and our beloved community of Northwest Louisiana.