Our History
The Latino Coalition of San Benito County traces its roots back to February 10, 1988, when a dedicated group of 15 local Latino community members came together with a shared goal. Their vision was to establish a unifying body that could catalyze a proactive Latino action agenda, addressing and championing the issues integral to the Latino community's empowerment. Since then, we've been committed to promoting a Latino agenda that resonates with the unique needs and aspirations of our community.
Founding Members
Formation statementÂ
Latino Coalition of San Benito County
Organizing Statement
February 10, 1988
Leading from a Place of Strength
Latinos have made enormous contributions to the social and economic wellbeing of our nation and state. At the local level, Latino Coalition of San Benito County is committed to elevating these assets and leading from a place of strength. Latinos are generous and committed to improving the lives of their families and communities. We work to leverage this commitment and the will for collective action to create opportunities for change. We seek to accomplish our mission not because there is a need to be met; but simply because as Latinos we contribute toward our state and nation.
Hope
Hope is what fuels our work and daily commitment to push forward. Hope that positive change is possible when power and will are applied and leveraged for the common good. We know that the systems and policies that have failed our families and communities can be fixed or replaced. We draw upon the collective history and strength of all immigrant communities that have settled in the U.S., a country guided and governed by a declaration that ALL men and women are created equal and have a right to pursuit happiness.
Trust
The Latino Coalition of San Benito County’s work is rooted and established on trust. We trust that our community understand the solutions that can best address the issues we all face. We trust that other local organizations and agencies know how best to assist us in accomplishing our goal to represent.  We trust that our local supporters share our goals and aspirations for the Latino community. Throughout the years, our community has built trust and a working environment that fosters mutual trust and respect of all and honors the role each one plays in advancing our mission for equal representation.
Original Organizing Members-1988
Former Chairs, SBC BOS - Henry P. Solorio – Bob Cruz
Former Mayors - Ken Duran, Fernando Gonzalez
Former Councilmembers - Jose Alvarez, Marian Cruz
Former Fire Chief – Tony Aguirre
Educators/Board Member Gavilan College Instructor - Tony Ruiz
SBC Probation Officer - Bob Castellano
City of Hollister Finance -Mickie Solorio Luna
Founding Member- Mexican American Committee on Education -Al GutierrezÂ
State staff with Employment Development Department (EDD) - Jose Puente
Businessman - Jose Ascencion Reynoso
PG&E Management Staff - Richard Elias
San Benito Health Foundation (SBHF) Health Administrator - Javier Guzman
Members in Action
As an integral part of a national Latino organization, we serve as the Latino community's government liaison in Washington, D.C. By actively monitoring legislation, we provide policymakers with a comprehensive Latino perspective on crucial issues spanning education, immigration, civil rights, health care, business, and more. Join us in shaping a brighter future for our community.
Social Equity and Justice
We champion an influential role in decision-making, and protection under the legal system for communities across San Benito County. Our advocacy is rooted in upholding the rights of all and creating a fair and just society.
Civic Engagement
We are dedicated to building a diverse, engaged, and empowered coalition, fostering multicultural and multi-generational voices. Through community-centered solutions, we strive to create an inclusive and vibrant civic environment.
Community-Driven Actions
Our commitment extends to creating accountability within the political process. We demand respect, inclusion, and prioritization of marginalized and historically underserved groups by public servants. Join us as we work towards a political landscape that truly reflects the needs of our community.
