Jose Rodriguez has a degree from Humphreys College School of law, but instead of going to a high-powered firm, he committed himself to the nonprofit El Concilio-Council for the Spanish Speaking. In 1994 he became president and CEO.
Inspired by the successful programs of other Latino community-based organizations, he thought “If they can do it, why can’t we?”
The organization provides social services for Latinos—Right now, they serve at least 25-thousand people in the Central Valley with a wide range of services including workforce development ; van transportation; alcohol and drug programs and parenting classes.
Rodriguez says government needs to find more effective ways to serve and engage people. At El Concilio, he and his team see and help folks from all walks of life – people dealing with different and difficult challenges and issues.
Though Rodriguez says California is at a crossroads about what type of future it wants to provide its people, he is optimistic. He says that California still draws people with ambition and energy: “Because of that energy and that outlook, there still is hope.”
To read Jose’s full profile, click here. You can also learn about all of our Forward Thinkers, helping fill a void in their community and move California Forward.
