RECORD OF SERVICE
City of Long Beach Parks
and Recreation Commission
Our parks and open spaces are more than just green spaces. They are the heart of our community and a reflection of our city’s values. That’s why I'm proud to have supported several items as a Commissioner to expand opportunities for local artists and small businesses in these beloved areas of the City. By featuring more local art and businesses, we can create a vibrant and diverse atmosphere that will enhance the experience for park-goers, foster a stronger sense of community, and boost our local economy.
Co-Chair of the Mayor’s Animal Care
and Visioning Task Force
As a Co-Chair of Mayor Robert Garcia’s Animal Care and Visioning Task Force, our mission was to bring about positive change for shelter animals. Through our community outreach efforts, we developed the Animal Care Services Strategic Plan, which has paved the way for a significant FY24 Budget allocation. This allocation will go a long way towards improving shelter animals' living conditions and providing them with the care they deserve. Take a moment to learn more about the plan by clicking the link below. Together, we can make a difference!
https://www.longbeach.gov/globalassets/acs/media-library/lbacs-strategic-plan_2021-2024
Gateway Cities Council of Governments
During my six-year tenure as a voting member of the Gateway Cities Council of Governments, we approved various policies and programs, including the creation of the Gateway Cities Affordable Housing Trust. This trust is a Joint Powers Authority that advocates for the subregion's fair share of state, regional, and local funding for projects that help meet affordable housing needs. Additionally, I approved the Gateway Cities Regional Broadband Master Plan, which aims to increase mobility, educational opportunities, and workforce development for the region's 2.1 million residents and 76,000 businesses.
Long Beach YMCA Community Development Branch Board
It is crucial to create opportunities for our young people to explore different parts of our community. I feel fortunate that I was able to help give under-resourced youth an unforgettable experience through my extensive network of community leaders and organizations. By connecting them with a chance to visit and discover Catalina Island, we created a unique opportunity to see and do things that they may not have been able to do otherwise. The experience was both fulfilling for me and the youth, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact in our community.
American Association of University Women, Long Beach Branch
One of my priorities as an Executive Board Member was to diversify our branch membership and panel discussions. In doing so, I recognized that there were women who were unable to actively participate due to financial constraints. To address this, I proposed and implemented an innovative scholarship program that has since enabled women from all backgrounds to join us in our mission. Together, we have created a more equitable and inclusive community where everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute and thrive.
City of Long Beach
Mental Health Advisory Group
I played a critical role in advocating for better collaboration among multi-jurisdictional agencies. Our efforts helped identify the challenges and opportunities within the system, leading to the creation of the Mental Health Report. This report serves as a comprehensive roadmap, outlining the necessary changes, services, and resources required to improve the mental health landscape in Long Beach. Thanks to the dedicated work of all the stakeholders involved, Long Beach is now better equipped to address its residents' critical mental health needs. Learn more about the plan at the link below.