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La Luz Center

History

La Luz Center was founded in 1985 by a small group of volunteers led by Ligia Booker. They secured an office and meeting space in Boyes Hot Springs and created a safe place for immigrants to go for help both in emergencies and in building their new lives. Over time the number of services and classes has expanded to include English language, GED and citizenship preparation, computers, parenting, nutrition, family budgeting, leadership and legal issues. In 2009 Vineyard Worker Services joined La Luz, and their programs of assistance, outreach and temporary housing for the migrant labor community continue. Today La Luz Center has become the “go to” place for our neighbors, for help in managing and improving their lives. We serve over 20,000 families and individuals every year.

Mission

La Luz Center is a family resource center devoted to addressing the ever-changing needs of the Sonoma Valley. Our mission is to empower our community through education, leadership, and self-advocacy. The quantity and quality of our services ensure that Sonoma Valley residents facing all types of challenges have the opportunity to actively participate in shaping the economic, social, and cultural aspects of our society. La Luz helps clients realize their full potential, drawing upon our community's wealth of knowledge, skills, and tradition in the process.

To learn more, visit La Luz Center

2011 Star Award Winner

Karen Adelson and Marcelo de Frietas were Co-Chairs of this year’s incredibly successful Noche en Copacabana fundraiser for La Luz Center.  In creating this amazing event, these two expended incredible efforts, involved many new people in the planning and execution, and, made sure that the event and the message surrounding the event were exactly right.

Karen (far right) and Marcelo (second from the right) are pictured here with La Luz Center Board Members Dave and Vicki Stollmeyer.

2010 Star Award Winner

 

Mary Carver (on the right) accepting the SVF's 2010 Star Award along with La Luz Center's Executive Director Yvonne Hall (left).

In the year and a half she has been with La Luz, Mary Carver has unconditionally supported staff, assisted clients, and helped with projects and events central to our mission.  Her great sense of humor and warm personality add to her incredible value as SVF's Volunteer of the Year