Redwood City, CA – Along the bustling peninsula between San Francisco and San Jose, a powerful force for community empowerment thrives. El Concilio of San Mateo County (ECSMC) has stood as a pillar of support for underserved communities since its founding in 1980. Committed to equity, advocacy, and service, El Concilio continues to address education, employment, and health disparities affecting low-income, non-English-speaking residents. Through a multifaceted approach that includes direct services, coalition-building, and policy advocacy, the organization is a guiding light for many.

The mission of Dr. Ana Angel Avendaño, Executive Director of El Concilio, is clear: “We are doing the good work, and people are seeing it. It gives us hope and affirmation that we’re on the right path. Recognition like this reminds us that we are making a difference.”

 El Concilio has always sought to elevate the voices of those often left unheard. Originally established to address economic development, education, health, workforce empowerment, and cultural affairs, the organization has expanded its reach while staying true to its core values. Its impact is felt across San Mateo County, where it provides critical resources to families, advocates for systemic change, and fosters the leadership of future generations.

Empowering Leaders, Building Capacity
One of El Concilio’s core priorities is leadership development. The organization works to create a long-term impact by equipping community members, staff, and board members with the skills and knowledge to take on leadership roles.

“Our goal is to create pathways,” Avendaño explains. “We want people to have opportunities to advance—to be the next executive directors and community leaders. Too often, talented individuals, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, face barriers to upward mobility. We are working to change that.”

Through strategic leadership programs and mentorship initiatives, El Concilio is nurturing a new generation of changemakers. The organization’s efforts extend beyond internal development, empowering community members to engage in civic processes and take on influential roles in public policy.

This investment in leadership is both an internal and external commitment. El Concilio recognizes the value of professional development among its team members and board, ensuring that those serving the community have the tools and training to maximize their impact.

A Voice for Public Policy and Advocacy
Originally established as a public policy organization, El Concilio has deep roots in advocacy. The need for policy engagement has grown in recent years, with housing instability and immigration taking center stage. The COVID-19 pandemic further amplified these needs, exposing systemic inequities and reinforcing a trusted organization’s need to champion vulnerable populations’ rights.

“Our community is looking for someone to bring people together, to keep them informed about policies that impact them,” says Avendaño. “They need the tools to advocate for themselves, and that’s where we come in.”

El Concilio’s local and statewide advocacy efforts include forming coalitions with other organizations to drive meaningful policy change. From housing rights to environmental justice, the organization actively works so that marginalized voices are heard.

One recent initiative is the South San Francisco coalition-building effort. El Concilio has worked to unite various stakeholders, including nonprofit organizations, schools, and city officials. “At first, people were siloed, operating independently and unsure how to collaborate,” Avendaño recalls. “But over time, through listening and relationship-building, we’ve created a space to come together and amplify our collective impact.”

A Lifeline for Families: Safety Net Navigation
One of the most critical aspects of El Concilio’s work is its safety net navigation program. With locations in East Palo Alto, North Fair Oaks, and satellite office hours with North County partners in South San Francisco and Daly City, the organization is a trusted resource for individuals and families seeking essential services.

“We hear from families who don’t know where to turn,” Avendaño shares. “Parents come to us asking where they can get vaccines for their kids, where they can access legal aid, or how to navigate public benefits. Our role is to connect them to the right resources and advocate for better support systems.”

This program addresses immediate needs and fosters long-term stability by guiding individuals through complex systems with culturally relevant and accessible services. El Concilio strives to see that families are taught how to build pathways toward economic security and self-sufficiency.

Strengthening Community Through Collaboration

El Concilio understands that real change happens through partnerships. The organization has taken a leading role in coalition-building, particularly in South San Francisco, where a lack of rooted community organizations has posed challenges for residents seeking support.

“We can’t do this work alone,” Avendaño emphasizes. “When one voice speaks, it’s powerful—but when five voices come together, we can move mountains. That’s why coalition-building is so important.”

By convening nonprofits, city officials, school districts, and local leaders, El Concilio is creating a network of support that nurtures sustainable, long-term solutions for the community. One of the biggest challenges, Avendaño explains, is overcoming the perception that a wealthy region like Silicon Valley does not need social services.

“People assume that resources are readily available because we’re in an affluent area,” she says. “But there are pockets of extreme need, and it’s our job to advocate so that these communities are not overlooked.”

Bridging Generations Through Education and Digital Equity
One of the organization’s standout initiatives is its digital equity program, which fosters intergenerational learning. High school students assist elders and community members with technology, teaching them how to navigate online services, use social media, and access essential resources.

“I love seeing that exchange,” Avendaño says with enthusiasm. “It’s about education at every level—whether it’s a young person teaching a senior how to use a smartphone or an experienced community member passing down wisdom about civic engagement.”

This commitment to education extends beyond technology, with programs designed to enhance financial literacy, climate justice awareness, and workforce development for all ages.

A Bright Future Ahead
El Concilio of San Mateo County is more than just a nonprofit—it is a lifeline, an advocate, and a force for change. As the organization continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to elevating community voices, fostering leadership, and providing critical services to those in need.

“We have to continue to advocate, to keep showing up, and to keep fighting for our communities,” Avendaño says. “This work is not easy, but it’s necessary. And as long as we’re making a difference, we’ll keep pushing forward.”

With a legacy of impact and a future full of promise, El Concilio is setting the standard for genuinely serving a community.

To see the work of El Concilio of San Mateo County visit their website:

https://www.el-concilio.org/