Our Farmworker Services & Workforce Development Division is always succeeding in finding new ways to exceed expectations. Our team is given annual performance goals to accomplish each program year for the Department of Labor for the National Farmworker Jobs Program. The goals measure a cohort’s employment rate, measurable skills gained, credentials earned, and other similar […]
https://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Copy-of-Blood-Donation-Infographic-1.png10801080Isaiah Antoinehttps://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/logo.pngIsaiah Antoine2021-03-18 13:13:142021-03-22 12:44:23Farmworkers Service & Workforce Development End of 2020 Success
Here is some of what California Human Development will be doing this March! For more information please don’t hesitate to reach out to the staff listed.
Eric Cosgrove has 30 years of construction experience and is a California Human Development (CHD) Anthony Soto Employment Training (ASET) Center Construction Program Instructor. We asked him to share what CHD has meant to him and how he found his passion for opening doors and creating opportunities for those underserved. Eric grew up in a […]
https://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/ericc-scaled.jpg2560938Isaiah Antoinehttps://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/logo.pngIsaiah Antoine2021-02-01 14:55:042021-03-22 12:44:18CHD Narrative Series Perspectives: Eric Cosgrove
Hello California Human Development, My name is Martin Molina Álvarez, I am the son of Narciso Molina and María Rita Álvarez, I have 8 siblings, 4 sisters, and 4 brothers, I am the sixth child in the family. I was born on a ranch called Tiriran in Michoacán, Mexico. Before I was born, my father […]
https://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/ss1.png485423Isaiah Antoinehttps://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/logo.pngIsaiah Antoine2021-01-21 15:31:332021-01-29 14:13:08A Letter from Mr. Álvarez
disABILITY Services is prepping for one of the biggest virtual events for their students. Through this Career Discovery Series, many of the students will start to discover a potential career path. For more information on this Career Discovery Series contact Tyler Wallace at 707.542.5609 or Tyler.Wallace@cahumandevelopment.org
https://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Discovery-Series-Announcement-page-001.jpg21001500Isaiah Antoinehttps://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/logo.pngIsaiah Antoine2021-01-21 15:28:202021-01-29 14:37:17disABILITY Services Career Discovery Series
Due to the sudden onset of the new realities of the pandemic, our residential treatment program has found new obstacles in providing our women with essential services. The need for social distancing and isolation has caused an increase in the amount of stress in their day to day. This has also made it more challenging […]
https://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/1.png20001414Isaiah Antoinehttps://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/logo.pngIsaiah Antoine2021-01-21 14:16:362021-01-21 14:20:08CHD Event Calendar January and February 2021
A Note From the Community Impact Team: October came and went for California Human Development. This past month we were able to spend time celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). To honor the month, we decided to speak to some of the fantastic individuals we serve in our disABILITY services program and hear […]
https://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_0211-scaled.jpg17002560Isaiah Antoinehttps://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/logo.pngIsaiah Antoine2020-11-12 14:39:272020-11-12 14:40:22October and Looking Forward to the Holidays!
September was a time of growth and being in the community for California Human Development. Our team in San Joaquin was able to get out into the local community and support the area’s farmworkers through supplies distributions. These workers are essential and support the infrastructure of not just California, but our country overall. In this […]
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Over the last few months, CHD has been searching for a new Chief Executive Officer with the passion and resolve to take on the challenge of leading our diversified programs across 31 Northern California counties. Today, CHD is extremely pleased to announce that after reviewing over 100 eligible and qualified individuals the Board of Directors […]
https://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC_0345.jpg31232139CHDhttps://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/logo.pngCHD2020-09-23 08:39:252020-09-23 09:09:08California Human Development Welcomes New CEO, Thomas Stuebner
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Things have been moving and shaking here at CHD but we want to ensure you we’re still here and doing our best to serve our community. We are happy to reconnect with you and share some updates in regards to what California Human Development has been doing in the past month. CHD Response to COVID-19 […]
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You’re invited! Every two years we do a Community Action Plan based on an assessment of the needs of our community and how we plan to respond to these needs. Public Hearings are our opportunity to share our Community Action Plan with you before we finalize it and receive any last feedback on the plan. […]
We are growers of human potential; we are people helping people. We believe ALL are created equal and the American Dream is big enough for ALL. We are committed to waging war on poverty, empowering those who struggle most. We offer a hand up to self-sufficiency, creating opportunity and changing lives. Ours is a […]
This spring across northern California, CHD’s Farmworker Services staff met face-to-face with those in our communities who struggle most to survive, asking what it is they need to break the cycle of poverty. CHD hosted 10 public hearings in accordance with its Community Services Block Grant. The hearings offered a powerful reminder of why we […]
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The Senate health care bill unveiled on Thursday is certain to have a deadly impact on California’s poorest residents battling drug and alcohol addiction, says California Human Development’s Director of Treatment, Sylvie Vatinelle. The bill cuts new funding that would have allowed people of low income who struggle with addiction to access up to 90 days of […]
CHD’s new affordable housing complex for farmworker families in Santa Rosa is filling up quickly, but it’s not too late to apply for a handful of units still available. Rents in these homes are capped at 30% of family income. The homes are brand new, two bedroom, one-and-a-half bathroom apartments located in Santa Rosa’s Larkfield […]
A new Senate bill calls for an earned legalization program for undocumented farmworkers. The majority of California farmworkers are undocumented and the state produces much of the nation’s food supply, making the proposed legislation critically important. “We salute California Senators Diane Feinstein and Kamala Harris for introducing the Agricultural Worker Program act of 2017. In this era of immigration fear […]
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Social justice for northern California’s poorest residents will take center stage in Napa on June 2nd as Cesar Chavez’s granddaughter keynotes The Big 50 Fiesta! The event, hosted by California Human Development (CHD), celebrates the anti-poverty agency’s 50th Anniversary and will feature a talk by Julie Chavez Rodriguez—state director to Senator Kamala Harris, former senior […]
Ortiz Plaza Affordable Housing for Farmworker Families in Santa Rosa! 5360 Old Redwood Highway, Santa Rosa CA 95403 Amenities Each 2 bedroom 1 1/2 bathroom home offers refrigerator,stove/microwave, dishwasher and central heat. Onsite facilities include: laundry room, playground, community room and BBQ area. Close to shopping, schools and transportation, friendly office staff with onsite manager. […]
Bright sunshine and green grass greeted a steady stream of volunteers recently at Middletown Trailside Nature Preserve. They arrived by the hundreds with shovels in hand to plant upwards of 3,000 fresh Ponderosa Pine seedlings. Their beloved county park, ravaged by fire in 2015, will soon once again be full of lush green trees. It’s a dream come true […]
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Grant funded services for Lake and Mendocino counties Plans are underway to expand CHD immigration and citizenship services to Lake and Mendocino counties, two northern California regions where affordable assistance for immigrants is sparse and undocumented residents are considered most at risk. A new two-year, $250,000 grant from the state Department of Social Services will fuel the […]
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No one would argue that its been a tough few years for Lake County. Prolonged drought left many farm laborers and others out of work. Then came unprecedented fires, including the devastating Valley Fire. The blazes made hundreds more homeless and unemployed. And to top it off, recent pounding rain caused flooding in Lakeport. More than 40 people […]
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1. Renew DACA 2. Work/Save $$ 3. Go to College 4. Get Married 5. Take care of sisters (?) When Andrik walked into the CHD office in Santa Rosa this morning, he had a pocket full of hard-earned cash and his mind set to take care of business fast! Andrik is a “Dreamer” […]
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A new contribution to the Dream Fund is infusing more than just financial support to California Human Development’s (CHD) work for young immigrant “Dreamers,” who are protected by DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals). “I believe the support of our Dream Fund very clearly signifies that many within our community stand behind our Dreamers and are opposed […]
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BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of California Human Development hereby supports SB 54 the California Values Act which would prevent the use of state and local public resources to aid federal immigration and customs enforcement (ICE) agents in deportation actions. SB 54 is consistent with our values of supporting the millions of […]
The Times They Are a Changin’ It was the turbulent ‘60s, a time of intense strife and historic social change. Martin Luther King Jr. rallied for equal rights and Cesar Chavez called farmworkers to unite. In small town Santa Rosa, CA this passionate cry for change—for opportunity for all—struck a chord in the hearts of […]
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All fees paid for DACA immigration renewals As protections promised to “Dreamers” hang in limbo, California Human Development (CHD) is taking action to shield at least some of the young immigrants who may face deportation under the administration of President-elect Donald Trump. Today, the Sonoma County-based social service agency announces the formation of the philanthropically […]
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From seasonal farmworker earning poverty wages to lead driver for El & El Wood Products in Galt! Today, Victor Perez proudly supports his growing family and is thrilled to be “living the American Dream!” A hard-working family man from Mexico, Victor spent years in California’s San Joaquin Valley making what few would consider a living […]
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Angels of the Fields bring cheer to the Delta’s most vulnerable kids Thirty donated bicycles, taiko drumming, carnival games, healthy food and goodies, pictures with Santa Claus, a Christmas stocking for every child and presents for all! Volunteers with the charitable group Angels of the Fields are busy working miracles this week to prepare an all-out […]
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Victor Farfan Gains Partial BIA Accreditation Excellent news in the mail today from the Department of Homeland Security. CHD’s Victor Farfan is being granted partial Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) accreditation from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The good news follows a rigorous application, inquiry and review process. The accreditation means Mr. Farfan is approved […]
Northern California social service agency seeks CEO successor Today, the Board of Directors of California Human Development (CHD) announces the upcoming retirement of Christopher Paige, chief executive officer and leading advocate in the fight against poverty for farmworkers and others across northern California. The announcement kicks off a search for Paige’s successor as he works […]
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Hard work, committed partnership, and perseverance; these are the hallmarks of the inspirational success story of Hilario and Carmen Payan—named 2016 Farmworkers of the Year. Upon arrival to Sonoma County, Hilario and Carmen had big dreams and little else. Hilario went to work in the vineyards, working hard to make ends meet for his growing family while […]
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Farmworkers, family and others across 11 counties to gain assistance Today, California Human Development (CHD) learned it will receive $188,000 to provide immigration services across 11 northern California counties in 2017. The funding comes from the State of California, Department of Social Services and allows important grant-funded work that began last year to continue. CHD is […]
Music, dancing, food and free health services to honor those who harvest Sonoma County’s bounty, November 5 As farmworkers throughout Sonoma County wake early and work late to complete the 2016 Harvest, California Human Development (CHD) is finalizing plans to celebrate! CHD’s 37th Annual End of Harvest Fiesta is slated for November 5th from 10am to […]
Bi-National Health Week is in full swing in Sonoma County, offering a series of free health fairs that deliver important health services to those who often go without. Now in its 16th year, Binational Health Week addresses health disparities of the Latino community living in the U.S. and Canada. Services are provided through a collaboration of […]
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Labor Secretary Applauds New California Overtime Law U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez is commending California Gov. Jerry Brown for signing into law Assembly Bill 1066. Perez said those who work on farms are some of California’s most vulnerable workers. “We all depend on their work to feed and care for our families, but far too often they can’t […]
disABILITY Services wins three-year accreditation from CARF Today, California Human Development’s disABILITY Services division received an important and prestigious thumbs up from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)—an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services worldwide. CARF issued a three-year endorsement, saying “the achievement is an indication of your organization’s dedication and commitment to improving the […]
Kevin Lindgren spent his young adulthood in prison. When he was released, he walked out with the clothes he was wearing, a few dollars and the strong will to build a good and upstanding life. “I did bad things, got into moving drugs, and that’s about all I knew how to do,” says Lindgren. “I […]
On Monday in a historic move, the California Legislature voted in favor of new overtime laws for farmworkers. If Governor Jerry Brown signs the bill, those who tend and harvest our state’s plentiful and diverse bounty will receive overtime pay just like all other workers in the state. The bill proposes time-and-a-half pay for farm laborers […]
It’s not unusual for Emma Rued to make a hundred pies a day. When we visited her recently at Petaluma Pie Company, she and her co-workers were preparing for five weddings! Proprietor Lina Hoshino has no doubt the job will be done well and on time. “Emma is a great employee, she started as a dish washer […]
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“Creating Opportunities to End Poverty” California Human Development (CHD) is seeking an executive leader to fight poverty in Northern California. A non-profit social service agency with a 50 year history, CHD is based in Santa Rosa in the heart of Sonoma Wine Country and has locations throughout Northern California serving 31 counties. The agency has a $15 million […]
Four year grant to provide job training for Northern California farmworkers Excellent news coming out of Washington D.C. today in support of one of California’s most impoverished populations: the men and women who plant and harvest our state’s bounty. “California Human Development is excited and honored to announce the U.S. Department of Labor has awarded a four year WIOA […]
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Bonnie Bishop, a single mom, wakes early to get to the job site near Middletown. She works in the blazing sun to cut up and remove burned trees destroyed by the Valley Fire. It’s hard, hot, dirty work but she’s grateful for it beyond measure…because finally things are looking up. “This job means I can get […]
Center provides coordinated and safe hiring, fair wage The St. Helena Day Labor Center is back in business following its temporary closure in late 2015. Operated by California Human Development, the center serves an important role in the community by offering day workers and employers an organized and safe setting to connect, arrange services, and […]
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Today’s ruling by the Supreme Court means U.S. born children will continue to live in fear of being separated from their parents or being forced to leave the only homes they’ve known. The decision upholds a lower court injunction against Deferred Action for Parents of Americans (DAPA) and expanded Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). “On […]
Ortiz Family Plaza to help fill critical need for affordable homes An affordable housing development to meet the needs of Sonoma County’s changing farmworker population is coming soon to Santa Rosa. California Human Development announces closing of financing for the 30 unit Ortiz Family Plaza to be located in Santa Rosa’s Larkfield-Wikiup region. Construction is […]
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On Friday, April 29th, California Human Development celebrated a milestone accomplishment—40 years of Farmworker Services and Workforce Development in Northern California. Supporters and partners from every sector gathered in Stockton to mark the occasion and to savor, truly relish and enjoy, in the power of what people can do together when they join hands and […]
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In this video created by Napa County, CHD’s Angel Calderon takes you on a tour of River Ranch—one of three farmworker housing centers for seasonal laborers in Napa County. Where once these farmworkers camped in makeshift tents along the riverside or adjacent to fields, now they have warm beds, showers, and meals. A per acre […]
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This video by Petaluma Pie Company shows why we insist on lowercasing the “dis” and augmenting the “ABILITY” in our disABILITY Services program. So proud of our clients and grateful to community-minded folks like Petaluma Pie for employing them and being committed to their success. Thank you!
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In loving tribute to Martha E. Núñez, our longtime camp director. These are just a few of the thousands of smiles brought to the faces of farmworker children who experienced the very special joy of summer camp because of Martha’s dedication. Camp Núñez could never be the same without Martha but it will live on–bringing […]
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Expanded immigration assistance is underway for farmworkers, families, and others who live in California’s North Bay, North Coast, and Central Valley regions. California Human Development (CHD) has received a $136,600 grant from the Department of Social Services to provide increased immigration education and assistance in these areas. Extended help made possible through the new funding […]
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A vineyard worker, a priest, and two fraternity brothers; in 1967, this unlikely foursome forged a powerful bond that’s stretched across time and geography to impact more than 700,000 lives and growing.
https://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/File0004.jpg27782268CHDhttps://californiahumandevelopment.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/logo.pngCHD2016-01-23 07:43:352020-07-29 10:44:42Founding Fathers, Working for Change
A hearty congratulations to Placido Garcia— CHD’s Farmworker of the Year! We’re honored to recognize Placido for his decades of hard work and success. At age 20, Placido came to the U.S. and went to work picking fruits and vegetables across California. He wanted more for his life and sought help from CHD to improve […]
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“Just keep going, never give up.” – Jesus Mendoza
If ever there was a story about overcoming obstacles, this is one. Born in Mexico in 1987, Jesus Mendoza came into the world with his feet crossed and tucked up close to his tiny body. He had his first operation at just three weeks old and endured many more, until at age four his heart stopped on the operating table. Doctors shocked him back to life and Jesus’ family put an end to the dangerous procedures.
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For seven days and nights, Tesfahiwet walked through the wilds of the notoriously dangerous Sudan—dodging authorities and wild animals alike. It was the beginning of a two-year journey, ultimately leading him to Northern California where he would be reunited with his fiancé and baby daughter.
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When Frances Ortiz-Chavez was a teenager, she spent her summers picking California’s peaches and tomatoes. Today, she uses her hands for more delicate work, but the impact of her time spent in the fields remains—and speaks clearly—through the art she creates.
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Farmworkers Service & Workforce Development End of 2020 Success
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Isaiah AntoineOur Farmworker Services & Workforce Development Division is always succeeding in finding new ways to exceed expectations. Our team is given annual performance goals to accomplish each program year for the Department of Labor for the National Farmworker Jobs Program. The goals measure a cohort’s employment rate, measurable skills gained, credentials earned, and other similar […]
CHD March 2021 Event Calendar and Listings
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Isaiah AntoineHere is some of what California Human Development will be doing this March! For more information please don’t hesitate to reach out to the staff listed.
CHD Narrative Series Perspectives: Eric Cosgrove
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Isaiah AntoineEric Cosgrove has 30 years of construction experience and is a California Human Development (CHD) Anthony Soto Employment Training (ASET) Center Construction Program Instructor. We asked him to share what CHD has meant to him and how he found his passion for opening doors and creating opportunities for those underserved. Eric grew up in a […]
A Letter from Mr. Álvarez
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Isaiah AntoineHello California Human Development, My name is Martin Molina Álvarez, I am the son of Narciso Molina and María Rita Álvarez, I have 8 siblings, 4 sisters, and 4 brothers, I am the sixth child in the family. I was born on a ranch called Tiriran in Michoacán, Mexico. Before I was born, my father […]
disABILITY Services Career Discovery Series
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Isaiah AntoinedisABILITY Services is prepping for one of the biggest virtual events for their students. Through this Career Discovery Series, many of the students will start to discover a potential career path. For more information on this Career Discovery Series contact Tyler Wallace at 707.542.5609 or Tyler.Wallace@cahumandevelopment.org
Stonehouse Garden in Progress
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Isaiah AntoineDue to the sudden onset of the new realities of the pandemic, our residential treatment program has found new obstacles in providing our women with essential services. The need for social distancing and isolation has caused an increase in the amount of stress in their day to day. This has also made it more challenging […]
CHD Event Calendar January and February 2021
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Isaiah AntoineTake some time to read and mark your calendars to join CHD at some of our upcoming events!
October and Looking Forward to the Holidays!
/0 Comments/in Blog /by Isaiah AntoineA Note From the Community Impact Team: October came and went for California Human Development. This past month we were able to spend time celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). To honor the month, we decided to speak to some of the fantastic individuals we serve in our disABILITY services program and hear […]
September, New Beginnings and Serving our Communities in the Field
/0 Comments/in Blog /by CHDSeptember was a time of growth and being in the community for California Human Development. Our team in San Joaquin was able to get out into the local community and support the area’s farmworkers through supplies distributions. These workers are essential and support the infrastructure of not just California, but our country overall. In this […]
California Human Development Welcomes New CEO, Thomas Stuebner
/0 Comments/in Blog /by CHDOver the last few months, CHD has been searching for a new Chief Executive Officer with the passion and resolve to take on the challenge of leading our diversified programs across 31 Northern California counties. Today, CHD is extremely pleased to announce that after reviewing over 100 eligible and qualified individuals the Board of Directors […]
August at California Human Development
/0 Comments/in Blog /by CHDWe’re Still Here For You
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineThings have been moving and shaking here at CHD but we want to ensure you we’re still here and doing our best to serve our community. We are happy to reconnect with you and share some updates in regards to what California Human Development has been doing in the past month. CHD Response to COVID-19 […]
Public Hearings 2019
/0 Comments/in Blog, Events /by wpengineYou’re invited! Every two years we do a Community Action Plan based on an assessment of the needs of our community and how we plan to respond to these needs. Public Hearings are our opportunity to share our Community Action Plan with you before we finalize it and receive any last feedback on the plan. […]
Our Nature, Our Truths
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineWe are growers of human potential; we are people helping people. We believe ALL are created equal and the American Dream is big enough for ALL. We are committed to waging war on poverty, empowering those who struggle most. We offer a hand up to self-sufficiency, creating opportunity and changing lives. Ours is a […]
Those who live it speak out on poverty
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineThis spring across northern California, CHD’s Farmworker Services staff met face-to-face with those in our communities who struggle most to survive, asking what it is they need to break the cycle of poverty. CHD hosted 10 public hearings in accordance with its Community Services Block Grant. The hearings offered a powerful reminder of why we […]
Cuts to Medicaid threaten poorest residents seeking rehab
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineThe Senate health care bill unveiled on Thursday is certain to have a deadly impact on California’s poorest residents battling drug and alcohol addiction, says California Human Development’s Director of Treatment, Sylvie Vatinelle. The bill cuts new funding that would have allowed people of low income who struggle with addiction to access up to 90 days of […]
Ortiz Plaza Filling Up…Apply Now!
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineCHD’s new affordable housing complex for farmworker families in Santa Rosa is filling up quickly, but it’s not too late to apply for a handful of units still available. Rents in these homes are capped at 30% of family income. The homes are brand new, two bedroom, one-and-a-half bathroom apartments located in Santa Rosa’s Larkfield […]
Farmworker Immigration Bill Aims to Harvest Justice
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineA new Senate bill calls for an earned legalization program for undocumented farmworkers. The majority of California farmworkers are undocumented and the state produces much of the nation’s food supply, making the proposed legislation critically important. “We salute California Senators Diane Feinstein and Kamala Harris for introducing the Agricultural Worker Program act of 2017. In this era of immigration fear […]
Cesar Chavez’s Granddaughter to Keynote 50th Anniversary
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineSocial justice for northern California’s poorest residents will take center stage in Napa on June 2nd as Cesar Chavez’s granddaughter keynotes The Big 50 Fiesta! The event, hosted by California Human Development (CHD), celebrates the anti-poverty agency’s 50th Anniversary and will feature a talk by Julie Chavez Rodriguez—state director to Senator Kamala Harris, former senior […]
Affordable Farmworker Family Housing – Apply Now!
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineOrtiz Plaza Affordable Housing for Farmworker Families in Santa Rosa! 5360 Old Redwood Highway, Santa Rosa CA 95403 Amenities Each 2 bedroom 1 1/2 bathroom home offers refrigerator,stove/microwave, dishwasher and central heat. Onsite facilities include: laundry room, playground, community room and BBQ area. Close to shopping, schools and transportation, friendly office staff with onsite manager. […]
Rebirth at Middletown
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineBright sunshine and green grass greeted a steady stream of volunteers recently at Middletown Trailside Nature Preserve. They arrived by the hundreds with shovels in hand to plant upwards of 3,000 fresh Ponderosa Pine seedlings. Their beloved county park, ravaged by fire in 2015, will soon once again be full of lush green trees. It’s a dream come true […]
CHD Expands Immigration Help to Ukiah
/1 Comment/in Blog /by wpengineGrant funded services for Lake and Mendocino counties Plans are underway to expand CHD immigration and citizenship services to Lake and Mendocino counties, two northern California regions where affordable assistance for immigrants is sparse and undocumented residents are considered most at risk. A new two-year, $250,000 grant from the state Department of Social Services will fuel the […]
Lakeport Flood Victims Find Homes at Konocti
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineNo one would argue that its been a tough few years for Lake County. Prolonged drought left many farm laborers and others out of work. Then came unprecedented fires, including the devastating Valley Fire. The blazes made hundreds more homeless and unemployed. And to top it off, recent pounding rain caused flooding in Lakeport. More than 40 people […]
To Do List for Young Dreamer
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengine1. Renew DACA 2. Work/Save $$ 3. Go to College 4. Get Married 5. Take care of sisters (?) When Andrik walked into the CHD office in Santa Rosa this morning, he had a pocket full of hard-earned cash and his mind set to take care of business fast! Andrik is a “Dreamer” […]
“Dream” Alive, DACA Support & Work Continues
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineA new contribution to the Dream Fund is infusing more than just financial support to California Human Development’s (CHD) work for young immigrant “Dreamers,” who are protected by DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals). “I believe the support of our Dream Fund very clearly signifies that many within our community stand behind our Dreamers and are opposed […]
CHD Supports California Values Act
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineBE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of California Human Development hereby supports SB 54 the California Values Act which would prevent the use of state and local public resources to aid federal immigration and customs enforcement (ICE) agents in deportation actions. SB 54 is consistent with our values of supporting the millions of […]
Anti-Poverty Leader Marks 50 Years
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineThe Times They Are a Changin’ It was the turbulent ‘60s, a time of intense strife and historic social change. Martin Luther King Jr. rallied for equal rights and Cesar Chavez called farmworkers to unite. In small town Santa Rosa, CA this passionate cry for change—for opportunity for all—struck a chord in the hearts of […]
CHD Launches Dream Fund to Protect Young Immigrants
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineAll fees paid for DACA immigration renewals As protections promised to “Dreamers” hang in limbo, California Human Development (CHD) is taking action to shield at least some of the young immigrants who may face deportation under the administration of President-elect Donald Trump. Today, the Sonoma County-based social service agency announces the formation of the philanthropically […]
Dead Broke to “Living the Dream!”
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineFrom seasonal farmworker earning poverty wages to lead driver for El & El Wood Products in Galt! Today, Victor Perez proudly supports his growing family and is thrilled to be “living the American Dream!” A hard-working family man from Mexico, Victor spent years in California’s San Joaquin Valley making what few would consider a living […]
Farmworker Children to Receive Angels’ Love
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineAngels of the Fields bring cheer to the Delta’s most vulnerable kids Thirty donated bicycles, taiko drumming, carnival games, healthy food and goodies, pictures with Santa Claus, a Christmas stocking for every child and presents for all! Volunteers with the charitable group Angels of the Fields are busy working miracles this week to prepare an all-out […]
CHD Immigration Specialist Earns Accreditation
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineVictor Farfan Gains Partial BIA Accreditation Excellent news in the mail today from the Department of Homeland Security. CHD’s Victor Farfan is being granted partial Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) accreditation from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The good news follows a rigorous application, inquiry and review process. The accreditation means Mr. Farfan is approved […]
Top Executive Christopher Paige to Retire
/1 Comment/in Blog /by wpengineNorthern California social service agency seeks CEO successor Today, the Board of Directors of California Human Development (CHD) announces the upcoming retirement of Christopher Paige, chief executive officer and leading advocate in the fight against poverty for farmworkers and others across northern California. The announcement kicks off a search for Paige’s successor as he works […]
Farmworker Family, A Story of Inspiration
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineHard work, committed partnership, and perseverance; these are the hallmarks of the inspirational success story of Hilario and Carmen Payan—named 2016 Farmworkers of the Year. Upon arrival to Sonoma County, Hilario and Carmen had big dreams and little else. Hilario went to work in the vineyards, working hard to make ends meet for his growing family while […]
CHD Receives $188,000 Immigration Grant
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineFarmworkers, family and others across 11 counties to gain assistance Today, California Human Development (CHD) learned it will receive $188,000 to provide immigration services across 11 northern California counties in 2017. The funding comes from the State of California, Department of Social Services and allows important grant-funded work that began last year to continue. CHD is […]
End of Harvest Fiesta Celebrates Farmworkers
/3 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineMusic, dancing, food and free health services to honor those who harvest Sonoma County’s bounty, November 5 As farmworkers throughout Sonoma County wake early and work late to complete the 2016 Harvest, California Human Development (CHD) is finalizing plans to celebrate! CHD’s 37th Annual End of Harvest Fiesta is slated for November 5th from 10am to […]
Bi-National Health Week = Care for All
/2 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineBi-National Health Week is in full swing in Sonoma County, offering a series of free health fairs that deliver important health services to those who often go without. Now in its 16th year, Binational Health Week addresses health disparities of the Latino community living in the U.S. and Canada. Services are provided through a collaboration of […]
Farmworkers’ Fair Share
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineLabor Secretary Applauds New California Overtime Law U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez is commending California Gov. Jerry Brown for signing into law Assembly Bill 1066. Perez said those who work on farms are some of California’s most vulnerable workers. “We all depend on their work to feed and care for our families, but far too often they can’t […]
CHD Earns Prestigious Endorsement
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpenginedisABILITY Services wins three-year accreditation from CARF Today, California Human Development’s disABILITY Services division received an important and prestigious thumbs up from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)—an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services worldwide. CARF issued a three-year endorsement, saying “the achievement is an indication of your organization’s dedication and commitment to improving the […]
Employed Ex-Con is “Loving Life!”
/1 Comment/in Blog /by wpengineKevin Lindgren spent his young adulthood in prison. When he was released, he walked out with the clothes he was wearing, a few dollars and the strong will to build a good and upstanding life. “I did bad things, got into moving drugs, and that’s about all I knew how to do,” says Lindgren. “I […]
Landmark Bill Gives Farmworkers Greater Share
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineOn Monday in a historic move, the California Legislature voted in favor of new overtime laws for farmworkers. If Governor Jerry Brown signs the bill, those who tend and harvest our state’s plentiful and diverse bounty will receive overtime pay just like all other workers in the state. The bill proposes time-and-a-half pay for farm laborers […]
Proof Is In The Pie: disABILITY Services Bring Success
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineIt’s not unusual for Emma Rued to make a hundred pies a day. When we visited her recently at Petaluma Pie Company, she and her co-workers were preparing for five weddings! Proprietor Lina Hoshino has no doubt the job will be done well and on time. “Emma is a great employee, she started as a dish washer […]
Seeking Deputy CEO: Passionate, Visionary, Leader
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengine“Creating Opportunities to End Poverty” California Human Development (CHD) is seeking an executive leader to fight poverty in Northern California. A non-profit social service agency with a 50 year history, CHD is based in Santa Rosa in the heart of Sonoma Wine Country and has locations throughout Northern California serving 31 counties. The agency has a $15 million […]
CHD Receives $3.6 Million in Federal Funding
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineFour year grant to provide job training for Northern California farmworkers Excellent news coming out of Washington D.C. today in support of one of California’s most impoverished populations: the men and women who plant and harvest our state’s bounty. “California Human Development is excited and honored to announce the U.S. Department of Labor has awarded a four year WIOA […]
Fire Victims Grateful for “Living Wage”
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineBonnie Bishop, a single mom, wakes early to get to the job site near Middletown. She works in the blazing sun to cut up and remove burned trees destroyed by the Valley Fire. It’s hard, hot, dirty work but she’s grateful for it beyond measure…because finally things are looking up. “This job means I can get […]
St. Helena Day Labor Center Reopens
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineCenter provides coordinated and safe hiring, fair wage The St. Helena Day Labor Center is back in business following its temporary closure in late 2015. Operated by California Human Development, the center serves an important role in the community by offering day workers and employers an organized and safe setting to connect, arrange services, and […]
Immigration Ruling Puts Families at Risk
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineToday’s ruling by the Supreme Court means U.S. born children will continue to live in fear of being separated from their parents or being forced to leave the only homes they’ve known. The decision upholds a lower court injunction against Deferred Action for Parents of Americans (DAPA) and expanded Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). “On […]
Construction to begin on affordable farmworker family housing complex in Santa Rosa
/14 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineOrtiz Family Plaza to help fill critical need for affordable homes An affordable housing development to meet the needs of Sonoma County’s changing farmworker population is coming soon to Santa Rosa. California Human Development announces closing of financing for the 30 unit Ortiz Family Plaza to be located in Santa Rosa’s Larkfield-Wikiup region. Construction is […]
Milestone Accomplishment: 40 Years & 500,000 Served
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineOn Friday, April 29th, California Human Development celebrated a milestone accomplishment—40 years of Farmworker Services and Workforce Development in Northern California. Supporters and partners from every sector gathered in Stockton to mark the occasion and to savor, truly relish and enjoy, in the power of what people can do together when they join hands and […]
Napa County, Doing Farmworker Housing Right
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineIn this video created by Napa County, CHD’s Angel Calderon takes you on a tour of River Ranch—one of three farmworker housing centers for seasonal laborers in Napa County. Where once these farmworkers camped in makeshift tents along the riverside or adjacent to fields, now they have warm beds, showers, and meals. A per acre […]
A Sweet & Savory Story of Success!
/1 Comment/in Blog /by wpengineThis video by Petaluma Pie Company shows why we insist on lowercasing the “dis” and augmenting the “ABILITY” in our disABILITY Services program. So proud of our clients and grateful to community-minded folks like Petaluma Pie for employing them and being committed to their success. Thank you!
Martha, these smiles belong to you…
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineIn loving tribute to Martha E. Núñez, our longtime camp director. These are just a few of the thousands of smiles brought to the faces of farmworker children who experienced the very special joy of summer camp because of Martha’s dedication. Camp Núñez could never be the same without Martha but it will live on–bringing […]
Immigrant Children and Parents to Receive Expanded Services
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineExpanded immigration assistance is underway for farmworkers, families, and others who live in California’s North Bay, North Coast, and Central Valley regions. California Human Development (CHD) has received a $136,600 grant from the Department of Social Services to provide increased immigration education and assistance in these areas. Extended help made possible through the new funding […]
Founding Fathers, Working for Change
/1 Comment/in Blog /by CHDA vineyard worker, a priest, and two fraternity brothers; in 1967, this unlikely foursome forged a powerful bond that’s stretched across time and geography to impact more than 700,000 lives and growing.
Farmworker of the Year
/0 Comments/in Blog /by wpengineA hearty congratulations to Placido Garcia— CHD’s Farmworker of the Year! We’re honored to recognize Placido for his decades of hard work and success. At age 20, Placido came to the U.S. and went to work picking fruits and vegetables across California. He wanted more for his life and sought help from CHD to improve […]
A Story of Resilience
/0 Comments/in Blog /by CHD“Just keep going, never give up.” – Jesus Mendoza
If ever there was a story about overcoming obstacles, this is one. Born in Mexico in 1987, Jesus Mendoza came into the world with his feet crossed and tucked up close to his tiny body. He had his first operation at just three weeks old and endured many more, until at age four his heart stopped on the operating table. Doctors shocked him back to life and Jesus’ family put an end to the dangerous procedures.
Family together at last, daughter meets dad!
/2 Comments/in Blog /by CHDFor seven days and nights, Tesfahiwet walked through the wilds of the notoriously dangerous Sudan—dodging authorities and wild animals alike. It was the beginning of a two-year journey, ultimately leading him to Northern California where he would be reunited with his fiancé and baby daughter.
Simple Hand Up Has Big Impact
/1 Comment/in Blog /by CHDWhen Frances Ortiz-Chavez was a teenager, she spent her summers picking California’s peaches and tomatoes. Today, she uses her hands for more delicate work, but the impact of her time spent in the fields remains—and speaks clearly—through the art she creates.