DOLORES HUERTA FOUNDATION - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Chief Deputy County Counsel / Office of the Sonoma County Counsel
Job Titles:
- EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
- Speaker 's Bureau Coordinator
Andrea serves as the Youth Peer Lead for South Kern County at the Dolores Huerta Foundation and is dedicated to providing a safe and empowering space for local youth. With a focus on inspiring and encouraging young voices, Andrea actively engages youth in attending school board meetings, visiting schools, and advocating for vital resources and tools to ensure an inclusive and equitable school environment. She is committed to fostering youth civic engagement and plays a pivotal role in developing youth-led campaigns.
Having been with the Dolores Huerta Foundation for over three years, Andrea brings valuable experience as a former canvasser, participating in phone banking and engaging in voter outreach efforts. Andrea's passion for community involvement and advocacy stems from her roots in Bakersfield, where she was born and raised. Holding an Associate's degree in Psychology from Bakersfield College, Andrea will pursue a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology at California State University, Bakersfield.
Job Titles:
- DIRECTOR of EDUCATION
- Education Policy Director
Ashley De La Rosa, the Education Policy Director at the Dolores Huerta Foundation, is passionate about dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline. A first-generation Mexican-American, Ashley earned her B.A. in Sociology from UC Santa Cruz and is currently pursuing a Master's in Public Administration at California State University, Northridge. With over nine years of civic engagement, including involvement with the UCSC Latinx Alumni Network, Central Valley Freedom Summer program, and Kern County Latina Leaders, Ashley is dedicated to ensuring fair representation and addressing systemic disparities.
Job Titles:
- Education Policy Coordinator
- EDUCATION PROGRAM POLICY COORDINATOR
Belen serves as the Education Policy Coordinator at the Dolores Huerta Foundation. She oversees and advocates for local, state, and federal policies that achieve accessible, equitable education for K-18 students by engaging underrepresented youth, parents, and partners across the Central Valley and beyond.
She first began her journey at the DHF in 2018 as part of the Youth and Family Civic Engagement Initiative, where, as a high school junior, she learned about her rights as a citizen and student, how to be an active community member, and how to advocate for herself in the educational system. She started interning in the Education Department in the summer of 2019. She transitioned into an Education Organizer for parents and youth in the Central Valley and is now in her new role as Education Policy Coordinator.
Belen is pursuing her History, Communication and Law, Public Policy, and Society transfer degrees at Taft Community College. She is based in Bakersfield, California.
Job Titles:
- Co - Founder
- Executive Director
Camila is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Dolores Huerta Foundation (DHF). From the DHF headquarters in Bakersfield, Ms. Chávez oversees the strategic direction of this organization that seeks to empower historically disenfranchised communities with the training and skills to make transformational changes in their communities. Camila has led the evolution of this organization from its infancy, seeded with $100,000 from the Puffin/Nation prize for Creative Citizenship awarded to Dolores Huerta in 2003 to an established anchor organization with a $7 million dollar operating budget and over 50 full-time staff members and 100 seasonal canvassers.
Under her leadership, DHF has increased the political representation of communities of color, addressed voting and education inequities, and secured millions of dollars for neighborhood improvements such as sidewalks, gutters, street lights, neighborhood parks, swimming pools, and school campus renovations. Vecinos Unidos (Neighbors United) leaders were at the forefront of these campaigns to improve the quality of life in their communities, a model that she helped create. This community empowerment model has led to many significant victories during her tenure, including establishing over 12 DHF grassroots community organizations throughout California's Central Valley and developing a youth leadership program.
Carlos is the first response in technology assistance for the Youth Program at the Dolores Huerta Foundation. His technology knowledge and creativity help inspire and enable our youths to learn and grow.
Carlos has several years of experience troubleshooting and working with technology. He is currently attending school in pursuit of a degree in computer software engineering, though most of his knowledge and expertise are self-taught. Carlos enjoys playing his guitar and ukulele during his leisure time. Sometimes, you'll even catch him fiddling around with a mini keyboard he keeps on his desk. He enjoys talking about his favorite music, attending live shows, and giving everyone recommendations on what to listen to, and he even takes recommendations himself if you're passionate enough about a song or an artist. Carlos also enjoys getting competitive with friends in video games, some of which include Street Fighter, Overwatch, and League of Legends. Given enough time, he loves building and customizing his own video game controllers.
Cecilia Castro was born in Mexico City and immigrated to the United States with her family when she was six years old. Despite facing challenges throughout her life as an undocumented student she graduated from South Bakersfield High and attended the University of California Santa Barbara, where she became involved in organizing efforts around undocumented student rights like the Dream Act. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Chicano/a Studies and Spanish. Shortly after, Cecilia returned to the Central Valley to begin her career as an educator. However, after witnessing the startling educational inequities in the surrounding communities, she felt inspired to organize once more and create systemic change in her own community. Cecilia joined the Dolores Huerta Foundation (DHF) in 2018 where she successfully supported community efforts in passing over 90 policy and budget adoptions in school districts across the Central Valley. Now as DHF's Deputy Director, Cecilia is responsible for supporting the organization in fulfilling its mission of empowering communities to advance social justice. In her spare time, Cecilia enjoys drinking lots of Iced coffee, attending music festivals, thrifting, and rescuing stray animals.
Job Titles:
- Labor Organizer / Political Consultant
Daniel Diaz serves as the IT Support Technician at the Dolores Huerta Foundation, where he plays a crucial role in computer support equipment, ensuring system maintenance and facilitating the seamless setup of equipment across various Foundation events, campaigns, press conferences, and phone banking systems.
Daniel Diaz brings a wealth of experience to his role as a technician support at the Dolores Huerta Foundation, having previously served as a Filling Clerk at K Bell Sock Company, where he managed data entry tasks. Originally from Los Angeles, Daniel relocated to Bakersfield to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Business with a concentration in Business Management at California State University, Bakersfield. His journey with the Foundation began in March 2022 when he joined as a canvasser, quickly advancing to team lead for the Health Department. Notably, he spearheaded a successful campaign for NNPHI. Daniel's commitment to the Foundation stems from his unwavering belief in its mission and the movement it represents.
Dayana focuses on engaging and empowering community members to pursue social justice. Through such efforts, she provides them with the tools to make a difference in their society. Educating the folks about their capabilities and power is essential in the work she strives to do.
Dayana's inclination to improve underrepresented disenfranchised groups led her to give back to her neighborhood. Her experience with Central Valley Freedom highlighted the lack of education and resources rural regional areas face. Through the creation of workshops, she seeks to bring awareness to the regions targeting issues such as voter registration and youth empowerment.
Dayana holds a bachelor's degree from California State University, Fresno in Sociology and a certificate in applied Sociological Research. In her free time, she enjoys a hot cup of tea and a good book.
Dennise serves as the Administrative and Human Resources Coordinator at the Dolores Huerta Foundation, where she actively acquires talent for open roles and assists with the everyday people operations of the foundation. Her commitment to her community inspires her continuous growth and dedication as a team member of this organization.
Dennise began volunteering and working part-time with the Dolores Huerta Foundation as a seasonal canvasser during her educational career. Upon graduation, she took on an Admin/HR Coordinator role, where she successfully hired and launched multiple campaigns in various regions throughout the Central Valley.
Dennise received her Bachelor's degree in Pre-Law from California State University Bakersfield and is based in Bakersfield, CA.
Job Titles:
- Medical Director Kern Regional Center
Job Titles:
- EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
- Executive Assistant to Camila Chavez
Eileen Díaz plays a crucial role as the Executive Assistant to Camila Chavez - Executive Director of the Dolores Huerta Foundation. Eileen's primary responsibility is to manage and coordinate Ms. Chavez's schedule and ensure she can efficiently fulfill her duties as the director. Additionally, Eileen provides valuable assistance to the Speaker's Bureau Department by arranging public events and speaking engagements for Dolores Huerta. Through her work in both capacities, Eileen supports the goals and initiatives of the Dolores Huerta Foundation.
Ms. Díaz earned a Bachelor of Arts in History with an emphasis in Public History from California State University, Bakersfield. She is currently writing a thesis to complete her Master of Arts in History degree from her Alma Mater. She has dedicated years to researching and writing about early-twentieth-century community organizations in Southeast Bakersfield.
Apart from her studies, Eileen combines her passion for history, and her desire to help others by working on projects, campaigns, and research focused on aiding historically underserved populations and communities in Kern County. These goals led Ms. Díaz to work with the Dolores Huerta Foundation, where she has the opportunity to work with other like-minded individuals and organizations.
Job Titles:
- Civic Engagement Coordinator
Eliana has 17 years of expertise in electoral, union, issue-based campaign management, and strategic policy and political analyses. Eliana has served decision-makers in the City Council, State Assembly, U.S. Congress, Senate, and presidential candidates in 2012, Barack Obama's & 2016 Bernie Sanders' presidential runs.
Eliana specializes in advocacy, grassroots organizing, communications, and coalition building; she is an effective advocate and leader and is passionate about equitable social, racial, economic, and environmental justice policies. Eliana has been with DHF for six years and as the Civic Engagement Coordinator at the Dolores Huerta Foundation, she leads DHF's equitable legislation and policy advocacy. Proficient in legislative advocacy, civic education, and campaign management, she's successfully managed multiple field offices, trained organizers, and represented organizations & campaigns in media. She helped pass over 100 pieces of legislation in 4 years.
Most recently, she created DHF's Redistricting People Powered Maps in Action StoryMap, which was presented at the 2023 ESRI User Conference, highlighting the most comprehensive community-driven redistricting campaign ever seen in California's Central Valley.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Communications Associate
Flor serves as the Communications Associate at the Dolores Huerta Foundation, where she plays a key role in shaping the foundation's creative direction. Her responsibilities encompass graphic design, content development, and crafting compelling messages for the foundation's social media platforms.
Flor brings valuable experience to the non-profit sector, having actively participated in various college projects centered around local non-profit organizations. Her contributions significantly advanced the missions of these organizations, effectively achieving their primary objectives within the community.
Flor earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communications degree from California State University, Bakersfield, and resides in Bakersfield, California.
Job Titles:
- Resources Center Director
- Youth Program Manager
Gabriela, now the Resource Center Director at the Dolores Huerta Foundation, embodies over six years of steadfast dedication as a staff member. Her journey began 18 years ago as an impassioned volunteer during middle school, later progressing into a role as a canvasser, where she witnessed the profound impact of direct voter engagement. Her pivotal role in establishing our youth department, securing crucial funding, and orchestrating impactful campaigns, notably the ‘No Guns on Campus' initiative, which amassed over 3,000 signatures, spurred action from the school board.
Job Titles:
- DIRECTOR of INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Job Titles:
- President Pacific Federal, LLC / PacFed Benefit Administrators
Job Titles:
- HEALTH PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Janeth holds the role of Health Coordinator at the Dolores Huerta Foundation, where she excels in overseeing teams and orchestrating campaigns with a keen focus on seamless operations. Her responsibilities encompass meticulous scheduling and organization to guarantee the success of various initiatives. Notably, she takes the lead in driving canvassing campaigns, with a special emphasis on COVID-19 initiatives, where she ensures that events are tailored to meet the community's specific needs. Janeth's commitment to effective coordination and community engagement is pivotal in the foundation's impactful work.
Janeth has a rich community engagement background, having previously worked with the United Domestic Workers. In this role, she profoundly impacted workforce dynamics by actively organizing and advocating for the rights of others. Janeth's dedication to fostering positive change in the community and her advocacy efforts highlight her commitment to creating a meaningful impact on the lives of those she serves.
Janeth pursued her education at Bakersfield College, specializing in Human Resources, laying the foundation for her professional journey. Currently based in Bakersfield, California, she has seamlessly woven her passion for community service into her life. Janeth discovered her fervor for volunteering and community involvement at a young age, showcasing a deep-rooted commitment to helping others. Her academic background and hands-on experience reflect a holistic approach to positively impacting the community she calls home.
Johnathon Escutia serves as the Fresno Team Lead, demonstrating exemplary leadership during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He skillfully navigated the uncertainties in his role, spearheading cohesive efforts within his team. Prioritizing safety, effective communication, and prompt decision-making, he ensured the team's unity and responsiveness in the face of evolving challenges. Through strategic leadership, he successfully steered the team to manage the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare delivery, emphasizing the crucial role of teamwork and dedication during times of crisis.
Juanita served as a board member of the DHF since its inception in 2003. Daughter of civil rights activist Dolores Huerta and niece of labor rights leader Cesar Chavez she was raised a "movement child." Her first steps were on picket lines and marches in support of the United Farm Workers. She is an alumni of San Francisco State University. While there, she served as a mentor for "at-risk" youth as part of the Real Alternatives Program. She worked in collaboration with the Chicano Moratorium to provide guidance and secure support and resources for Bay Area youth who successfully organized to demand increased funding for education and ethnic studies. She took a year off to intern at the Feminist Majority. Upon graduation, she earned a teaching credential and taught at Mission High School in San Francisco where she co-founded and served as staff advisor for the first Gay Straight Alliance. She also taught in inner-city public schools in Los Angeles for a little over a decade where she served as UTLA chapter chair for several years.
As the Human Resources Director, Kelley is responsible for planning, managing and coordinating HR functions including compensation and benefits, training and staff development. The greatest challenge Kelley has overcome while working at DHF was managing the multitude of census and GOTV canvassers that were hired during the Covid-19 Pandemic.
Before joining DHF, Kelley worked in Human Resources for a large manufacturing employer in Seattle, Washington. She is passionate about human rights that uphold the dignity of all people, especially the right to work and education.
In her free time, Kelley enjoys spending time with her family, friends and most importantly, her two daughters and two granddaughters.
Job Titles:
- RESOURCE CENTER COORDINATOR
Job Titles:
- Acting Director of the Cesar Chavez Foundation
- ARCHIVES DIRECTOR
Lucio serves as the Communications Director at the Dolores Huerta Foundation, spearheading the organization's strategic communication and marketing initiatives to elevate the organization's brand and bolster fundraising efforts.
Bringing over 17 years of experience in the non-profit sector, Lucio has impacted the areas of workforce development, adult learning, education, fundraising, communication, and marketing, benefiting Latine communities in the Los Angeles region. In his most recent role, he led the advancement and marketing efforts at Dolores Mission Church and School, the historic birthplace of Homeboy Industries.
Lucio holds both a Bachelor of Science in Management degree and a Master of Communication Management degree from the University of Southern California. He is based in East Los Angeles, California.
Luisa, in her role as the Tulare County Community Organizer at the Dolores Huerta Foundation, supports and oversees the communities of Lindsay and Woodlake. She coordinates meetings, activities, and outreach recruitment with the Vecinos Unidos chapters. Empowering and enriching communities of disadvantage
Bringing over eight years of experience in the non-profit sector. 4 years as a volunteer and four as a community Organizers Luisa has impacted the areas of adult learning, education for special needs students in the communities, health, redistricting, food banks, running campaigns, phone banking, canvassing, community development benefiting inequalities communities in the Tulare county region.
Job Titles:
- HEALTH PROGRAM COORDINATOR
- Health Program Coordinator for Tulare County
Nicole Verdugo serves as the Health Program Coordinator for Tulare County. With a passion for community well-being, Nicole plays a crucial role in addressing and fulfilling the healthcare needs of diverse communities. Her work spans a wide spectrum, including facilitating vaccine distribution, organizing food bank initiatives, and ensuring access to crucial healthcare resources. She actively engages with local residents, understanding their specific needs and collaborating with stakeholders to implement effective health solutions. Her dedication to bridging gaps in healthcare services has positively impacted the lives of those she serves.
As an advocate for accessible healthcare, Nicole strives to create a seamless connection between communities and vital health resources. She believes in the power of community engagement to promote overall well-being and works tirelessly to make healthcare services more accessible to everyone. Nicole values collaborative efforts and works closely with local organizations, healthcare providers, and community leaders to foster a holistic approach to health. By building strong partnerships, she aims to create sustainable health programs that address both immediate needs and long-term community well-being. She stands as a beacon of positive change, making significant strides in improving the health and quality of life for the residents of Tulare County. Nicole currently resides in Lindsay, California.
Job Titles:
- DIRECTOR of CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
Job Titles:
- CIVIC ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR
Job Titles:
- DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE
- Youth Program Associate
Job Titles:
- MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM MANAGER
Yesenia "Jess" Contreras is a long-time resident of Arvin, California. Active in sports, she benefited from Title IV programs. She was one of a few girls on the Arvin High School Freshman Football Team. She was a founding member of LINK Crew, which mentored incoming freshmen. After graduating high school, she coached Arvin Little League Baseball for two years.
She began working with the DHF as a canvasser for Yes on Proposition 30 in 2012. She continued on as a volunteer, and was soon hired as a Team Lead to run the Obamacare outreach campaign. Her team pre-enrolled over 200 people into Obamacare.
In May of 2014, she joined the DHF team as a full time Community Organizer. In October 2014, she ran the campaign for Yes on Prop 47, the Safe Neighborhoods and Schools Act. Her team contacted 9,433 voters and identified 5,844 in support of Prop 47. They recruited 107 volunteers to walk precincts in South Kern and Bakersfield on Election Day.
She became active in Civic Engagement as a canvasser for The California Vote Project, which registered over 12,000 voters in the Kern County area. She went on to work on various election campaigns, including Leticia Perez, for Kern County Supervisor, Rudy Salas for State Assembly, and Willie Rivera for City Council.
Job Titles:
- DIRECTOR of HEALTH PROGRAM
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