CCF – Cesar Chavez Foundation

Together in Purpose: Highlights from the 2025 CCF Staff Convocation

July 8, 2025, by CCF

In May 2025, staff from across the Cesar Chavez Foundation (CCF) gathered in Bakersfield and Keene, California, for the biennial staff convocation—a powerful time to reconnect, reflect, and recommit to our mission.

More than 250 team members from California, Texas, Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico joined to celebrate this year’s Convocation theme: “Help us love even those who hate us so we can change the world.” Rooted in compassion and resilience, the theme called us to lead with empathy and continue Cesar’s legacy of service and transformative change.

On the first day, staff arrived in Bakersfield and were welcomed with remarks by Marc Grossman, Cesar Chavez’s longtime spokesperson, and Andres Chavez, Executive Director of the National Chavez Center. The evening concluded with dinner, setting the tone for three days of reflection, learning, and connection.

Staff engage in a hands-on activity during a Sí Se Puede breakout session, exploring how Cesar’s legacy lives on through our daily work.

The second day was filled with Sí Se Puede learning sessions and community-building conversations. Staff explored topics such as honoring Cesar’s legacy in our daily work, storytelling through murals and monuments, and innovation across Chavez Media and Housing. These sessions created space to share ideas, connect with colleagues, and gain a behind-the-scenes look at the impactful work across CCF.

After lunch, staff took a shuttle to the National Chavez Center to explore the grounds, reconnect with the movement’s history, and reflect on Cesar’s enduring impact. The evening wrapped with a joyful celebration, where staff shared laughter, music, delicious food, and a deep sense of community.

The Convocation culminated on the third day with a heartfelt recognition ceremony honoring the years of service of team members who carry our mission forward each day, inspiring and transforming communities.

Staff touring the National Chavez Center, where Cesar lived and worked for 25 years.

That morning also featured a powerful Hablando Claro episode, in which host Maria Barquin sat down with CCF Board Chairman Paul Chavez and President & CEO Manuel Bernal for a heartfelt conversation about legacy, leadership, and the future of CCF.

As a mission-driven organization united by purpose and guided by Cesar’s values, staff left the 2025 Convocation reenergized and ready to continue building a more just and compassionate society.

Tap below to watch Highlights from the 2025 Staff Convocation.

Building Brighter Futures: The Education Fund’s Summer Math Program with Klein ISD

July 1, 2025, by CCF

This summer, the Chavez Foundation’s Education Fund launched a dynamic Math Summer Learning Program in partnership with Klein Independent School District (Klein ISD) in Klein, TX. Designed for students in grades 1 through 5, the program combined a strong foundation in math with literacy support and Spanish dual-language immersion, offering a well-rounded, culturally responsive educational experience.

The Education Fund team collaborated closely with Klein ISD to ensure that every aspect of the program aligned with Texas TEKS standards and met the district’s needs. From curriculum development to staff training, the goal was clear: equip educators with the tools and knowledge to deliver a summer learning experience that inspires academic confidence and growth.

“We appreciate your professionalism and flexibility. You all have been awesome,” said Dr. Denetria Phlegm, Multilingual Program Coordinator at Klein ISD. This program reflects the power and potential of strong partnerships that are rooted in its community-driven approach.

Infinity Insurance Agency joined as a proud program supporter, underscoring its commitment to educational equity and community investment. Together with Klein ISD, the Chavez Foundation is making meaningful strides toward closing opportunity gaps and empowering students through high-quality learning opportunities.

Radio Campesina: The Voice of the Community

July 1, 2025, by CCF

For more than 40 years, Radio Campesina has been the voice of the community—delivering trusted news, empowering stories, and hope on the airwaves.

Radio Campesina has long been an anchor in the community, delivering trusted information and sparking vital conversations over the airwaves. Founded by Cesar Chavez in 1983, Radio Campesina was created to unite Latinos and working families, giving farmworkers a platform where their voices could be heard. That legacy lives on today through Chavez Media, which owns and operates nine radio stations across Arizona, California, Nevada, and Georgia and continues to inform, uplift, and entertain millions of listeners each month—staying true to its mission of inspiring and empowering communities.

Chavez Media has long welcomed influential voice, from rising musical talents to cultural icons like Los Tigres del Norte, and even hosted an interview with former President Biden. Each guest adds to the spirit of connection, reminding our listeners that their dreams are within reach and their life goals are achievable and attainable. At the heart of Chavez Media’s mission is a deep commitment to listening to and serving the community.

An enduring community advocate is Roberto De La Rosa, Chavez Foundation Board Member and Executive Director of the Organization for the Legal Advancement of Raza (O.L.A. Raza). A UC Hastings Law graduate, Roberto has supported the community since the earliest days of Radio Campesina, working alongside Cesar Chavez. Today, he continues that legacy by providing immigrant rights education and resources during weekly call-in segments. As a founder of O.L.A., he works tirelessly to provide guidance, educational resources, and essential services that help immigrants, underserved students, and low-income families navigate the legal system.

The Chavez Media team also remains socially engaged in creating spaces where the community eagerly comes together. Through initiatives like Cuadrilla de la Semana, Rodeo Nights, and Jaripeo Bailes, they connect with the people they serve while providing essential resources. For decades, they have helped their listeners navigate through issues that affect the Latino community, including immigration reform, voter rights, and educational barriers. By offering expert advice, listeners have a trusted source to rely on.

As the community has faced evolving challenges, Chavez Media has remained a steady and trusted presence. Content Producer Osvaldo recalls the intensity of the 2024 election season, when key ballot measures greatly impacted the Latino community. One caller, overwhelmed and in tears, asked, “What are we going to do? How are they going to help us?” Osvaldo remembers how “that sense of belonging that people have with the radio station [isn’t] seen with other media outlets.” It’s a powerful reminder of the responsibility the team holds and the lasting importance of their work.

Through changing times, platforms, and issues, Chavez Media continues to fulfill its mission: to uplift and inspire. From the beginning, the dedication has remained and continues to be rooted in responding to the needs of the people.

Celebrating the Grand Opening of Vista de J.J. Rodriguez in Montebello, Calif

June 26, 2025, by CCF

James Rodriguez, son of the late J.J. Rodriguez, speaks to the crowd during the grand opening of J.J. Vista Rodriguez.

Our community came together to celebrate the grand opening of Vista de J.J. Rodriguez, a new affordable housing development in Montebello, California. This vibrant community includes 63 homes dedicated to low-income families, along with supportive services specifically designed for survivors of domestic violence.

Rooted in Cesar Chavez’s belief that people’s needs extend beyond the workplace, the Chavez Foundation remains committed to the idea that safe, stable housing is a basic human right. The Chavez Foundation’s Housing and Economic Development Fund works to create high-quality, affordable housing opportunities that are critically needed across the country. In partnership with The People Concern, one of Los Angeles County’s largest social services agencies, residents have access to support that empowers them to heal, rebuild, and thrive.

“Our affordable housing developments cultivate a sense of community and help residents to succeed on all fronts through dedicated community service initiatives,” shared Chavez Foundation President Manuel Bernal. Vista de J.J. Rodriguez will include a Sí Se Puede Learning Center, the foundation’s flagship after-school program, as well as multi-use community spaces and a playground to support family life and neighborhood connection.

Aerial view of the J.J. Vista Rodriguez affordable housing community in Montebello, CA.

This new development honors the legacy of J.J. Rodriguez, a pioneering community leader and key figure in the Chicano civil rights movement. In 1928, Rodriguez began organizing workers at the City of Vernon packing houses, eventually leading to their successful unionization. He served as president of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor and the Community Service Organization, where he worked closely with Cesar Chavez in the 1950s. Upon Rodriguez’s passing in 1991, Chavez eulogized him as a “pioneering trade unionist who fought many early battles of the Chicano movement.” His legacy continues to inspire communities throughout Los Angeles and beyond.

This 43-million-dollar project came to life through the support of strategic partners, including the Los Angeles County Development Authority, the California Department of Housing and Community Development’s Infill Infrastructure Grant Program, the City of Montebello, City National Bank, the San Gabriel Valley Regional Housing Trust, and PNC Bank. We are proud to collaborate with organizations that share our commitment to equity and opportunity.

We remain dedicated to Cesar’s vision and work to provide opportunities that can transform people’s lives and create lasting, ongoing change for generations to come.

United in Community: The 2025 Cesar Chavez Legacy Awards

June 19, 2025, by CCF

Inspired by Cesar Chavez’s legacy, the annual 2025 Cesar Chavez Legacy Awards united leaders from across the country at BMO Stadium for a powerful evening of unity and recognition. Individuals from business, labor, government, and education celebrated those advancing Cesar’s mission of empowering communities and championing justice for all.

This year’s remarkable honorees included Dr. George L. Pla, Patty Rodriguez, and Jimmy Humilde, who have each made a distinct and lasting impact on the community.

The Cesar Chavez Legacy Awards at BMO Stadium on May 29, 2025. Featured Custom Car – Humilde Car Club.

Dr. George L. Pla was honored for his lifetime of public service, entrepreneurship, and civic leadership. In 2023, he received a Presidential Medallion and an Honorary Doctorate Degree from California State University, Los Angeles. He is also an accomplished author, the founder and CEO of Cordoba Corporation, and a member of the Board of Trustees for the California Science Center. Reflecting on Cesar’s legacy during the ceremony, he reminded the audience: “the question we face isn’t whether [Cesar’s] values matter today. It’s whether we have the courage to live up to them.”

Patty Rodriguez, co-founder of Lil’ Libros, is a nationally recognized media producer and entrepreneur. Through her children’s publishing work, she celebrates cultural diversity and bilingual literacy and creates a space for young readers to see themselves reflected in stories.

Paul Chavez, CCF Board Chair, with 2025 Cesar Chavez Legacy Award honorees Patty Rodriguez, Jimmy Humilde, and Dr. George Pla at BMO Stadium.

Jimmy Humilde, co-founder and CEO of Rancho Humilde, helped redefine Latin music by promoting urban Mexican genres. His label has accumulated over 55 billion streams and nearly 10 billion views on YouTube. In 2024, he was named one of the Los Angeles Times’ L.A. Influentials for his cultural contributions. During his CCLA acceptance speech, Jimmy shared, “I didn’t have an entrepreneur I could look up to, being Chicano. We didn’t have that kind of businessman. We didn’t get to see it until later in life. I said, ‘I want to be one of those guys that young Chicanos look up to.’ Gracias a Dios, I am one of those guys.” Jimmy continues to break barriers and pave the way for future generations.

This year’s keynote address was delivered by Elsa Marie Collins, a proud first-generation Latina and social impact strategist and consultant known for her leadership and dedication to equity. As a co-founder of Poderistas and This is About Humanity, Collins uses her platform to amplify voices and foster meaningful change.

We were thrilled to have Annie Gonzalez as this year’s host. A talented producer, actress, and singer from East Los Angeles, she advocates for Latino representation in media. She produced and starred in the Jenni biopic, portraying Jenni Rivera.

Attendees enjoying local food favorites from the Taste of Avenida Cesar Chavez at the Legacy Awards at BMO Stadium.

Throughout the night, guests enjoyed the second annual Taste of Avenida Cesar Chavez, celebrating the rich culinary landscape along Cesar Chavez Avenue. Featured restaurants included Antojitos La Chispita, Churros El Bochito, Brooklyn Ave Pizza Company, La Blanquita, Los Cinco Puntos, La Princessita, and Sammy’s Elotes y Mas. Attendees enjoyed a variety of Los Angeles favorites, such as street dogs and freshly made churros, including an immersive display of beautifully crafted Lowriders, presented by Jimmy Humilde. The evening ended on a high note with a live performance by Boogaloo Assassins.

Notable attendees included Bricia Lopez, a culinary entrepreneur and restaurateur; Narsiso Martinez, a celebrated visual artist known for honoring farmworkers; and Erik Daniel Garcia, a dedicated social activist and content creator. Each guest received a copy of De Colores, a Lil’ Libros publication co-founded by Patty Rodriguez.

The Cesar Chavez Legacy Awards honor individuals dedicated to empowering their communities, showcasing the resilience and determination that embody Cesar’s vision. Their inspiring stories remind us that unity in the pursuit of equity and justice drives lasting change. We thank all our sponsors, particularly our presenting sponsors, Boston Financial and California Resources Corporation, for making this night a success.

Check out our video highlighting the night’s events!

Author: CCF