Valerie leads the Environmental Services team at NMC Health. That means she oversees housekeeping, linens, and a lot of details each day. Her life in Newton is more than just a job. It’s about deep roots, strong family bonds, and a burning passion for a beloved community tradition.
Valerie was born and raised in Newton. She moved to Kansas City for 12 years, but her heart called her back to help with her grandma. After her grandma passed away, Valerie stayed. “It’s home,” she says. “It always will be.”
From chasing foul balls to building a family legacy
Valerie’s strong connection to Newton’s heritage shines brightest in her volunteer work. She’s a dedicated member of the Newton Mexican American Athletic Club (NMAAC) committee. This group is the heart and soul behind the 77th annual men’s fastpitch softball tournament, a much-loved event that fills Newton with excitement over the Fourth of July weekend.
The tournament’s story began in 1946 when Hispanic players were not allowed in white-only tournaments. “It started because of segregation,” Valerie says.
For her, this tournament is far more than just a game; it’s a cherished part of her life. “I grew up going to that tournament and chasing foul balls. It’s my favorite time of the year.”
Joining the NMAAC committee in 2017 was a deeply personal moment for Valerie. It was a true “rite of passage.” Her family has been involved since the very beginning, including her grandfather, Joaquin “Chuck” Estrada, who was a well-known pitcher. His memory is honored every year with the Most Valuable Pitcher award.
“Having the deep family roots that we have, becoming something that my grandparents have been part of, it felt like it was my time,” she says. This family commitment continues, with her own daughter joining the committee just last year.
Building community, one base at a time
Valerie’s work on the committee has shown her the immense passion and effort it takes to make the tournament happen. After two years as a general volunteer, she became treasurer. She also takes on the role of Park Coordinator for Athletic Park during the tournament. Games are also played at Centennial Park and Washington Park, each with its own park coordinator.
“The first year I did it as treasurer, there was no real system to it. I carried a backpack.” Over the years, she has created a central spot at the main park – a dedicated “post” where teams check in, find first aid, and get water. “We’ve slowly grown this main area for the tournament,” she says. “It’s exhausting. I love every minute of it.”
Valerie’s personal drive is clear: she wants to “keep this wonderful, beautiful sport alive” and “to continue to encourage the Hispanic youth to continue playing.” Teams travel from places as far as Texas and Colorado, alongside local teams from Newton, Emporia, and other cities. The event becomes a family reunion, bringing generations together year after year.
Beyond the diamond
In recent years, the NMAAC committee has welcomed younger members with fresh ideas. They’re now reaching out to support more community events beyond the tournament. They helped with the Halloween Walk downtown and plan to join the chili cook-off and the Parade of Lights. “We’re trying to branch out and support the community because the community has supported us for so long,” says Valerie.
Pride, purpose, and a better person
For Valerie, her volunteer work with NMAAC has been life-affirming.
“Joining the committee made me understand more what goes into bringing this tournament to life,” she says. “It’s really helped me understand my heritage more and the history of the tournament.”
She feels pride, not just for herself, but for the entire committee’s amazing teamwork. “My sense of pride comes from being involved with the committee and being so proud of everything everybody does.”
This experience has even made her a stronger leader at work.
“Being on that committee has basically shown me that if you fight for what’s good and fight for what’s right, you will be pleased with the outcome,” she reflects. “It crosses over here at NMC Health because I see my team face challenges. But I stick behind them, work through it, and in the end, everybody’s better for it.”
Ultimately, Valerie’s work with the NMAAC is about leaving a lasting legacy. She hopes her efforts help the tournament continue for many more years. “I want my kids and my grandkids to have the experiences that I had as a child so who else to make that happen but me.”
