Across the Southwest and beyond, real change is taking shape as hardworking families, Latinos, and veterans step forward to build stronger futures for themselves and their communities. Supported by the Chavez Foundation, these efforts are rooted in education, housing, economic opportunity, and the belief that lasting progress comes from investing in people.
In California, where more than 1.2 million extremely low-income renters struggle to find a home, the recently opened Chris Hartmire Plaza offers families and veterans a chance to start fresh in a safe, welcoming community.
Chris Hartmire Plaza Grand Opening Ceremony in Pomona, CA, on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. (Photo by Sandy Huffaker)
Resident M. Gonzalez shared, “For five years, we lived across the street in a one-bedroom apartment with four people. This apartment complex has truly changed our lives for the better. We feel comfortable and, most importantly, safer.” The Chavez Foundation believes housing is a fundamental human right. This year, the Housing and Economic Development Fund invested 232 million dollars in underserved communities, creating more than 289 affordable homes and providing holistic services that help them thrive.
Carrying forward Cesar Chavez’s belief that a person’s education can never be reversed, the Chavez Foundation continues to champion learning opportunities for all.
The Chavez Foundation Education Fund works to build a just society by nurturing both a student’s heart and mind. This year, the Education Fund reached more than 103,000 students in under-resourced communities and continues progressing toward its goal of impacting one million learners by 2028.
The Chavez Media team connects with the community by producing engaging and entertaining programming.
The team focuses on developing innovative, engaging programs in partnership with community organizations. Reflecting on the Cesar Chavez Migrant Education Program, R. Catillo, Director of the Fresno County Office of Education, shared, “Working with the Cesar Chavez Foundation these past few years has been amazing — they truly understand the needs of our students!”
The impact of this work extends well beyond the classroom, supporting student growth long after programs conclude.
The Chavez Media team plays a vital role in sharing critical information and serving as a trusted voice within the Latino community. What started as Radio Campesina, Cesar Chavez’s vision of a radio station for farmworkers, has grown into Chavez Media, a multimedia network with broadcast and digital stations across the Southwest, reaching over 7.5 million listeners every month.
Chavez Media continues to evolve with programming like El Malcrido, which highlights powerful stories and serves as a trusted source for listeners to learn about their rights through campaigns such as Conoce Tus Derechos.
Attendees of the Chavez Huerta Leadership Conference explore the Cesar E. Chavez National Monument’s visitor center, guided by Executive Director Andres Chavez.
The National Chavez Center remains a place of reflection, learning, and inspiration as it preserves and honors the legacy of Cesar Chavez. As the Cesar Chavez Centennial Celebration approaches, the Center invites visitors to reflect on Cesar’s lasting impact and the continued change inspired by his life’s work. Today, changemakers and future leaders visit the center to draw inspiration, tackle today’s challenges, and shape the opportunities of tomorrow.
As 2026 approaches, the Chavez Foundation reflects on the past year, recognizing that when ordinary people care for their community, extraordinary change follows.