Events – 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.

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!

From Grand Rapids to San Luis: Cesar’s Legacy Lives On

April 21, 2025, by CCF

Cesar Chavez’s legacy lives on through grassroots organizations that continue his fight for justice, dignity, and equity. This March, from Michigan to Arizona, communities gathered to honor his memory and keep his mission alive through action.

The annual Cesar E. Chavez March for Justice in San Antonio, TX, on March 25, 2025.

One of the largest tributes to Chavez’s legacy takes place in San Antonio, Texas, where thousands of marchers unite for the annual Cesar E. Chavez March for Justice. This event, deeply rooted in community activism, brings together families, students, and advocates to honor Chavez’s contributions and highlight ongoing social justice issues.

Local organizers in Grand Rapids, Michigan, host a social justice march, gala, and scholarship program supporting young leaders. Visalia, California, continues its commitment through events led by Roberto Capitan Bustos.

In San Luis, Arizona, Maria Robles and her team at WeAreSomos—including former UFW members—have established a visitor center dedicated to Cesar Chavez’s life and mission. The center serves as a hub for education and reflection, offering programs that connect the past struggles of farmworkers with today’s ongoing labor movements. Robles shares, “We must pass on from generation to generation the importance of working as a team for the common good, following the model of Cesar Chavez, who unified and transformed the issues of farm workers into impactful actions by working together.”

San Luis, Arizona Street Sign Donation on March 6, 2025.

A significant recent addition to the San Luis visitor center is a street sign donated by the City of San Luis, now proudly on display. This milestone was made possible through the collaboration of the National Chavez Center Archives and WeAreSomos, further cementing Chavez’s presence in the heart of the community.

During a recent visit to the San Luis Center, Manuel Bernal, President and CEO of the Cesar Chavez Foundation, saw the newly installed Cesar Chavez street sign donated by the City of San Luis. “We’re deeply grateful for the grassroots commemorative groups who honor Cesar’s legacy year after year—not for recognition, but out of love for their communities and a lasting commitment to justice,” said Manuel Bernal, President and CEO of the Cesar Chavez Foundation.

The annual Cesar E. Chavez March for Justice in San Antonio, TX, on March 25, 2025.

Andres Chavez, Executive Director of the National Chavez Center, added, “From Grand Rapids to San Antonio, Visalia to San Luis, these efforts are not isolated—they’re part of a national tapestry of remembrance and action. Each scholarship, each march, each community event is a reminder of my Tata’s legacy and how the movement remains alive. What these communities show us is that we only lose if we give up. As long as we keep organizing, educating, and believing in our collective power, we continue moving forward. The fight for justice isn’t over—and thanks to these local leaders, it never will be.”

From Michigan to Texas to California and Arizona, these grassroots groups exemplify the power of local activism in keeping Cesar Chavez’s spirit alive. As we reflect on his legacy, we celebrate the individuals and organizations who continue championing his vision for justice, dignity, and equality for all.

Boston Financial Announced as Presenting Sponsor of the 2025 Cesar Chavez Legacy Awards

March 12, 2025, by CCF

We are proud to celebrate Boston Financial, a presenting sponsor of the 2025 Cesar Chavez Legacy Awards.

At the Cesar Chavez Foundation, we carry on Cesar’s life’s work of uplifting and transforming Latino and working families by inspiring and transforming communities through social enterprises that address essential human, cultural, and community needs. We are committed to creating opportunities that empower people to thrive on all fronts.

For almost 60 years, Boston Financial has been at the forefront of affordable housing capital solutions and investment management, creating hundreds of thousands of affordable housing opportunities nationwide. Boston Financial is America’s largest syndicator of affordable housing and envisions a future where everyone has a home. With each investment, they are steadily working toward this transformative goal.

“Boston Financial could not be more proud to serve as a presenting sponsor of the 2025 Cesar Chavez Legacy Awards,” said Roy Faerber, Senior Managing Director at Boston Financial. “There is an undeniable correlation between stable housing for families and the health, educational achievement, and economic opportunity for an entire community. We have immense respect for the decades of work that the Cesar Chavez Foundation has put into raising up communities and bringing the dignity of affordable housing to thousands of families.”

Boston Financial has been an instrumental partner in the creation of the Chavez Foundation’s newest affordable housing community, Plaza Ysabel “Mac” Ortiz II—a high-quality, service-enhanced community for working families in El Monte, California.

Plaza Ortiz II, named in honor of the 19-year-old El Monte native who was killed during the Korean War and whose remains were returned nearly 70 years after he was reported missing in action, offers 53 units of 100 percent affordable housing, along with community services such as the Si Se Puede Learning Center, the Chavez Foundation’s flagship after-school program for K-5 students.

The combined efforts of the Chavez Foundation and Boston Financial have had a positive and lasting impact on the El Monte community, including residents like Marlee Martinez. “Living in Plaza Ortiz has positively changed my family’s life. Our new home has brought us closer together and provided great educational and healthcare opportunities” said Marlee.

“Affordable housing is not just about developing housing; it’s about building thriving communities. Partners like Boston Financial, with their expertise and dedication to affordable housing investments, play a crucial role in ensuring long-term, sustainable solutions. Their commitment to fostering economic growth and stability within communities helps create environments where residents can truly thrive. Together with the residents, they lay the foundation for transformative change, setting the standard for what can be achieved both individually and as a community” shared Alfredo Izmajtovich, Vice President of the Cesar Chavez Foundation’s Housing and Economic Development Fund.

We are thrilled to have Boston Financial as a presenting sponsor for the 2025 Cesar Chavez Legacy Awards and celebrate their commitment to positive change.

We look forward to our continued partnership as we work to achieve our shared mission.

Category: Events

Together in Purpose: Highlights from the 2025 CCF Staff Convocation

Tap below to watch Highlights from the 2025 Staff Convocation.

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

United in Community: The 2025 Cesar Chavez Legacy Awards

From Grand Rapids to San Luis: Cesar’s Legacy Lives On

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