Martha Cota
Founder & Chief Executive Director
Was born in Sonora, Mexico. It is the fourth of 5 in the Family. She was an early education teacher, secretary and accounting assistant, and graduated from the University of Sonora with a BA in social work. In the United States certified as a parent counselor, Martha worked for LBUSD, Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE), Parent Institute for Quality Education (PIQE), Jewish Family Foundation, YMCA, YWCA and more. I am actively involved in SSC, ELAC and as Vice President of DELAC. 35 years ago, Martha began revolutionizing the community to support and educate parents about education and advocate for their children. Martha has a great story and the causes that drove her advocacy for education initially because of her son Jesus who was discriminated against, incorrectly diagnosed and without any access to services.
She is a genuine, supportive and committed leader. As a community organizer and advocate, she is always fighting for equity in causes that affect families of color, marginalized and low-income families.
In The News:
https://www.presstelegram.com/2017/03/23/23-women-honored-for-positive-change-in-long-beach/
Board Members for 2024
Martha De La Torre
From Mexicali, Baja California, with a background in Hospitality, Gastronomy, and Human Resources. I have lived in Long Beach, CA, for 35 years, where I moved for its beauty and have raised four children, two with special needs. This personal experience led me to study the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to advocate for my children and later help other parents. I became a community leader and joined the board of an agency supporting children with deaf-blindness (CDBS). Currently, I work at the Family Resource Center at MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital in Long Beach, where for the last 18 years, I’ve supported families dealing with developmental and intellectual disabilities. I also organize monthly support groups and engage in various related organizations
Eva Melgarejo
With over ten years of experience, has been instrumental in improving the lives of over 300 families by guiding them in the real estate market during the COVID pandemic. She is deeply committed to reducing the wealth gap through homeownership, serving as her community’s advocate. Eva has held positions on various Business Community Chamber Boards and was appointed by the Mayor of Long Beach as a Director of The Long Beach Community Investment Company. Recognized for her expertise in lending to minority communities, she is a notable speaker at significant industry events.
Araceli Velázquez Ortega
Originally from Huandacareo, Michoacan,
Beginning as a school volunteer, group leader, elementary director of after school programs with BGC-LB, culminating in the position of Area Director of after school programs with BGC-LB in Long Beach
Araceli I work with students from 6 to 18 years old and with parents. She was in such difficult areas as Washington Middle School, Martin Luther King Park and Westside.
Always involved in the education of children, youth, and adults, she became Area Director of Boys and Girls-LB (BGCLB) in 9 schools in LBUSD.
He was Assistant to Vice Mayor Dee Andrews, Recipient of several awards such as Boys & Girls Clubs of America, (LACOE), City Mayor Robert Garcia, Councilman Dee Andrews, Councilman Al Austin, Senator Lena Gonzalez and many more.
Hugo Barron Arevalo
My name is Hugo Barron Arevalo, and for five years, I have served in various capacities within the nonprofit sector, including event coordination, fundraising, and digital marketing. I am passionate about leveraging my skills to benefit our communities and have collaborated with inspiring individuals to create significant impacts across multiple regions. Serving the community is my greatest joy, especially when done alongside others. I believe in being the change we wish to see, echoing Gandhi’s philosophy.
Efren Luna
Long Beach artist and educator, grew up in challenging times marked by gang violence and economic strife. Despite these challenges, he found solace and passion in art during his school years. After a period of working post-high school, Efren pursued higher education in fine arts and became deeply involved in his community. He has organized numerous art projects and events to uplift Long Beach, including 21 murals during the 2020 social justice protests. Efren currently serves as President of the Cultural Alliance of Long Beach, promoting arts and teaching free classes.
Joel Barragán
Was born and raised in Long Beach. He studied at CSULB and his specialty is Psychology. He has a brother who has autism and he takes care of him. His mother has been very involved in Latinos in Action California since Joel was in middle school and that is how he started in the Youth Empowerment Program, then he became a volunteer and speaker at YEP. He is currently a member of the Board of Directors.
He is a caregiver. Work with people who have disabilities. He loves helping and giving back to the community.
German Nunez
A Life Woven with Service and Compassion.
Dedicated father and husband, devoted in helping others alleviating their struggles by volunteering in community and church events. Materialized my active involvement in empowerment projects, and joining organizations that their core values are helping others become self-sufficient and increasing their knowledge to have a better life.
