ALIRP Executive Director

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Matt Buttler, Executive Director
Matt Buttler is the Executive Director of the Alabama Interfaith Refugee Partnership (ALIRP). He joined ALIRP in 2023 as the Direct Support Case Manager and assumed his Executive Leadership role in January 2024. With over 10 years of experience in nonprofit social services, Matt has worked with Latinx and migrant communities in Alabama, Arizona, and along the U.S.–Mexico border. He holds a degree in Spanish from Auburn University and has completed graduate study in Spanish Literature and Social Work. Trained in mental health case management, survivor advocacy, and community organizing, Matt is committed to advancing safety, dignity, and self-determination for people seeking relief in Alabama and worldwide. 

Meet our Staff 

PictureHae Fuerte-Tejeda, Community Health Coordinator

​​Hae Marilyn Fuerte-Tejeda is the Community Health Coordinator at the Alabama Interfaith Refugee Partnership (ALIRP), where she manages Direct Support programs and connects community members with health and local resources. She earned her degree in Public Health from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2025 and previously interned with ALIRP, contributing to program assessment and qualitative research. Coming from an immigrant family, Hae is deeply committed to supporting communities that are often overlooked yet vital to our society.
PictureLeo Ramirez, Communications Manager

​Leonela “Leo” M. Ramirez is the Communications Manager at the Alabama Interfaith Refugee Partnership (ALIRP), where she leads digital and print media content and manages general communications. Originally from El Salvador and raised in the Birmingham area, Leo holds a BS in Sociology from Jacksonville State University, with micro-credentials in Social Media Management and Equity & Diversity. She is passionate about helping refugees and asylum seekers feel welcomed and supported in the Birmingham community.

ALIRP Interns

We partner with several institutions to support students in their professional training, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health, Samford University Social Work program, and the UAB Institute of Human Rights.  We will consider individual requests for an internship on a case by case basis.  To inquire about internship opportunities, email [email protected]. 

Board of Directors

  • Meredith Gartin, Board President
  • Jane Vines, Vice President and Chair of Education and Advocacy
  • Edna Vázquez, Treasurer and Chair of Direct Support
  • Betsy Mishoe, Secretary
  • Bola Fenny, Board Member
  • Karina Cortes, Board Member
  • Maria Elena Frias, Board Member
  • Idania Gonzalez, Board Member
  • ​Elizabeth Kurtz, Board Member​
​The Board of Directors meet monthly and serve two-year terms. If you are interested in joining the Board of Directors, please email the Board President at [email protected].